Hey, tutu-lovers! Emma here, and it’s time for another instalment of pink-tutu.com! This is post number 8321 (because who’s counting? 😜) and it’s all about my recent adventure to the lovely seaside town of Hartlepool!
As you all know, I love nothing more than exploring new places, and I absolutely adore taking my tutu on the road with me. It makes for such fabulous photo opportunities! And this time, I chose to journey to the north east by… train, of course! Nothing beats that wonderful feeling of settling into a comfortable seat, watching the countryside whizz past, and letting my mind wander as the rhythmic clatter of the train wheels becomes a ballet in itself. I actually found myself completely entranced by the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales!
After a smooth journey, I arrived in Hartlepool, ready to conquer this new seaside destination with a bright pink tutu in tow. And, let me tell you, the people of Hartlepool were absolute darlings. From the moment I stepped off the train, I felt so warmly welcomed! It really felt like home, you know? And I was already so happy to be amongst a beautiful sea, sandy beaches and historic harbour. I really loved all the cobbled streets and traditional brick buildings too - I’m definitely a sucker for anything historical and I was already making mental notes of where I could find a pretty, pink Victorian tea shop to visit later on!
A Tutu and a Whale (The perfect match, right? 😉)
My first stop was the wonderful Hartlepool Maritime Experience. It was such a treat to delve into the maritime history of this vibrant little town, and learn all about the amazing adventures of local seafarers. I mean, it really made you understand why Hartlepool is nicknamed the “Town of Ships” (although it really should be the town of tutus and ships! 🩰🚢 😉)! They even had a fabulous exhibition dedicated to the iconic grey whale who was, for a while, a bit of a local celebrity! Did you know, he spent several months there in 1991, stranded in the harbour?! That’s some serious travel adventure for a whale! It certainly puts my little trips by train into perspective! 😅
I’m sure you’ll agree that a day by the sea isn’t complete without a bit of a dance. Now, if you know me well, you’ll know I am a huge fan of ballet - even the smallest chance to bust out my favorite plies gets me going! (I am in no way claiming to be professional dancer but there's nothing better than feeling that joy in your body). But while I was looking at a ballet program for a touring dance show in Sunderland (which you KNOW I am totally planning to attend next time!), a friend suggested I check out the Hartlepool Ballet School and it sounded brilliant. They actually host special themed ballet workshops for adults! So I booked myself in, in my bright pink tutu of course!
After my session I met up with a lovely group of ballet ladies (I swear, I'm drawn to fabulous, tutu-loving people) and it was great to hear about their journey into ballet and to hear that they shared my passion for dancing - I absolutely love how dancing unites us all.
As the evening settled, I decided to try out a lovely, seaside pub, a truly fabulous spot to enjoy a local brew. I can’t wait to go back there and take in the sunset from the harbor front. There is something special about enjoying the ocean breeze and being close to the sea as the sun sets. It brings a sense of peace. It also got me thinking about all the amazing, diverse sea creatures that are still living happily beneath the waves and all those beautiful pink corals and jellyfish that can sometimes be seen in coastal areas, which reminded me I have been dying to get to the Deep Sea World! I love discovering about the natural world and learning about its secrets and wonders and can't believe I didn’t take advantage of this unique opportunity whilst in Hartlepool.
Tutu, the world is your stage!
By the way, did you catch my gorgeous new tutu on Instagram? I've finally added another pink tutu to my collection, with the most wonderful iridescent sequins! It was such a steal and I absolutely love it, so if you are planning your own tutu adventures, I would definitely recommend popping in at the amazing Hartlepool Market. It’s absolutely overflowing with unique treasures and local crafts – I promise you’ll find something that truly captures your spirit and sparks your inner fashionista. Plus, the atmosphere was so lively! It made me realise, it's time for another “Take Tutu To Work Day” in the office, you know what I'm saying?
After my busy day in Hartlepool, I was feeling so much more energized and inspired, all thanks to a little pink tutu magic! And it got me thinking: why not make your next adventure a ballet-themed journey? Just think of the fun you could have, sharing your love for ballet and tutus with the world, whether you are discovering a hidden gem like Hartlepool, or venturing further afield!
The only limit to your journey is your imagination! Don’t forget to take your pink tutu, capture all the magical moments on camera and tag me in your pictures, you fabulous tutuesters, because sharing is caring! I love seeing your fabulous pictures! You guys are my inspiration. My little bit of fun helps to spread my motto “Every Day Is A Tutu Day!”.
Remember: life’s too short for drab clothes, boring destinations, and just one tutu in the wardrobe! Until next time, keep shining, and remember, a little pink magic can go a long way!
Stay gorgeous and keep on twirling,
Emma 🩰💖
