Hello my darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad travel blogger, Emma, and today I'm whisking you off to the charming town of Royal Tunbridge Wells!
This trip has been in the works for ages, and I can't tell you how excited I am to share it with you. If you know me, you know I have a soft spot for all things elegant and historic, and Tunbridge Wells delivers in spades. The name itself screams vintage charm, with its Royal connections and history dating back to the Georgian era. And, as you know, I just can't resist a destination with a touch of old-world magic!
Pink Power on the Train
My journey started in my lovely Derbyshire, where I packed my trusty pink tutu bag (you'll see it making its glorious return throughout this post) filled with my favourite blush-coloured ballet skirt and some of my trusty, well-loved dance shoes. Since I'm all about taking the scenic route, I opted for the train. Nothing beats watching the world whizz by, feeling the gentle sway of the carriage, and enjoying the peacefulness of a solo journey. Oh, and let's not forget the fabulous window views! The sun was out, casting a golden light on the countryside, and the air was crisp and fresh. Pure joy, my darlings!
The Royal Connection
Royal Tunbridge Wells itself is a dream come true. Imagine cobblestone streets, quaint shops spilling with charming trinkets, and graceful architecture adorned with blossoming wisteria. My heart just about burst with excitement! First stop: The Pantiles, a gorgeous walkway with elegant shops and cafes, and a real sense of old-world charm. I could practically hear the echoes of past promenades and social gatherings.
I indulged in a proper afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and delicate cakes, all washed down with a steaming pot of Earl Grey. Of course, no afternoon tea is complete without a pink ribbon and a sprinkle of glitter, and mine was no exception. I even caught the eye of a group of children on a school trip who giggled and pointed at my tutu! See, I told you: pink tutus make everyone smile.
Ballet Bliss
You know I'm all about dancing, and this trip wouldn't be complete without a little ballet inspiration! Luckily, the lovely Tunbridge Wells Arts Centre is a real gem for all things theatrical. They have a great dance programme, including workshops, classes and even live performances. I'm planning on catching the local ballet company perform Swan Lake later this week.
Speaking of dancing, I couldn't resist a little ballet street dancing myself in front of the town hall. My tutus just beg to be twirled in picturesque places, don't you think? The sound of my skirt swishing and the twinkle of the afternoon light reflecting off the sequins were a melody for my soul!
Exploring the Gardens
Now, no trip to Royal Tunbridge Wells is complete without visiting the glorious Tunbridge Wells Common. This sprawling park is a nature lover's paradise with manicured lawns, charming paths winding through the greenery, and a little lake teeming with wildlife. I spotted a family of ducks enjoying a leisurely swim, and even a little squirrel scampering across the grass.
While I was there, I couldn't help but strike a graceful ballet pose amidst the flowers, embracing the beauty of the park and reminding everyone that dance and nature are the perfect partners in crime!
Pink Tutu Moments
Let's be honest, it wouldn't be a Pink Tutu blog without a touch of whimsy. And where else can you embrace the quirky and adorable but at the Tunbridge Wells Toy Museum? This place was pure childhood nostalgia, filled with vintage dolls, wind-up toys, and everything from train sets to stuffed animals. I couldn't help but let out a squeal of delight when I stumbled upon a collection of beautifully restored ballerina dolls - they were just waiting for me to add them to my Instagram story, of course!
But the most magical moment was when I stumbled upon the cutest pink cupcake shop hidden away on a side street. It was a real sugary haven, and they even had a special cupcake decorated with a little pink ballerina figurine. Talk about finding your perfect match! It was a little touch of magic in the most unexpected place, just what this tutu-wearing explorer needed.
The Takeaway
This trip to Royal Tunbridge Wells was all about embracing the simple pleasures of life, from indulging in delicious tea to admiring the natural beauty around me. But most importantly, it was about rediscovering my own joy in being a little bit eccentric, a little bit whimsical, and definitely a whole lot fabulous.
Remember, darlings, my mission is to inspire you all to embrace your inner dancer and let your tutu flags fly high!
Until next time, stay pink and twirl on!
Yours in pink, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
