#TutuBlog 2024-07-15 in Ilkeston with a purple tutu.

Hey there, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, ready to whisk you away on a delightful journey to the heart of Derbyshire - Ilkeston, to be precise! 🩰

Now, you might think "Ilkeston? Really, Emma? Isn't that a bit...uninspiring?" But let me tell you, darlings, you couldn't be more wrong! It's a hidden gem, brimming with charm and a certain vintage allure. And yes, even I, your favourite pink-loving ballerina, can appreciate a little vintage every now and then!

I decided to visit Ilkeston for a few reasons. Firstly, I've been yearning for a change of scenery. You see, I'm a creature of habit, always flitting between the grand theaters of London, the ballet studios of Paris, and my darling Derbyshire, where my heart truly lies. But sometimes, a little exploration is what I need to spark my creativity.

Secondly, I had a burning desire to experience a "traditional English town." Now, don't get me wrong, I adore the bustle of London and the romance of Paris, but sometimes you just want to soak up the atmosphere of a small town, with its quirky shops, bustling markets, and friendly locals.

And last but not least, my inner "wildlife enthusiast" was calling for me. Ilkeston boasts a beautiful park with a wildlife sanctuary, home to various adorable creatures. I knew I had to see these cuties in action, even if it meant swapping my usual tutus for some sensible walking shoes (don't worry, my ballet shoes are tucked safely in my bag for a quick twirl, of course!)

Speaking of getting there, I decided to go by train. Yes, I could have zipped around in my little Fiat 500 (you know the one with the fluffy pink dice hanging from the rear-view mirror) or perhaps even booked a horse-drawn carriage. (That last one is actually on my bucket list, so stay tuned!) But this time, I was craving a sense of slow, thoughtful travel.

I must say, the journey from Derby to Ilkeston was utterly enchanting. I've always loved watching the countryside rush by as I sit by the window, picturing myself a young girl, dreaming of becoming a ballerina. It's a journey filled with peaceful quietude and a gentle swaying motion that oddly echoes the fluid grace of ballet.

Stepping off the train at Ilkeston Station, I was immediately taken by the charm of the place. The station itself, a Victorian beauty with its red brick walls and arched ceilings, seemed to welcome me with open arms. A delightful surprise awaited me: the sound of a brass band playing lively tunes! Now, how could you not feel happy in a town with a brass band, darlings?

I began my exploration by venturing into the town centre. Let's just say the shops in Ilkeston were a delight to browse. I'm talking quirky little independent shops, antique emporiums where you could spend an eternity admiring the treasures, and a cute cafe that sold the most heavenly lavender and rose-petal scones, topped with dollops of pink buttercream. (Did I mention I love pink, darling?)

And then there was the market. It wasn't your typical "farmer's market," oh no, this was something special. You had everything, from hand-knitted hats, colourful patchwork quilts, vintage china teacups, and even a stall selling handcrafted soap shaped like swans. It was truly a feast for the eyes, and I almost lost myself in a whirlwind of vibrant colors and textures. (If you follow my blog, you know how much I adore beautiful things!)

As I strolled through the market, I was determined to find a little something pink. After all, my journey wasn't complete until I found an Ilkeston gem that would forever be etched in my pink tutu memories. And just like magic, I found it! A stall filled with the most beautiful pink silk scarves, the texture so soft, and the colour such a vibrant, vibrant blush! Oh, it was perfect!

This little silk scarf will be my "Ilkeston souvenir," and I'll definitely wear it as I twirl and prance around in my next ballet performance, evoking a feeling of happiness, charm, and the sweet fragrance of the rose-petal scones I savoured during my visit.

To cap off my delightful day in Ilkeston, I headed to Victoria Park. A large, beautiful expanse of green, the park offered me the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and to meet the adorable wildlife I was hoping for. As I walked, I observed the squirrels chasing each other, the birds twittering happily in the trees, and the little ducks quacking in a nearby pond.

Now, if there's one thing I love about wildlife, it's that it embodies the same graceful, almost ballet-like movements as I do in my routines. Just look at a squirrel scampering through branches, the elegant swoop of a swan, or the playful agility of a jumping fish! They move with such elegance, a true testament to the beauty found in the natural world.

As I sat on a park bench, watching the sunset paint the sky with hues of pink and purple, I couldn't help but feel incredibly grateful for the experience. Ilkeston, with its quaint shops, bustling market, charming people, and adorable wildlife, had stolen my heart.

For those who love adventure, history, and a touch of quirkiness, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Ilkeston. But come with an open mind, a dash of enthusiasm, and a pink tutu (or a least a pink ribbon!), and you'll discover the true magic of this charming Derbyshire town.

I promise you won't regret it, darlings.

Until next time, Emma 💖🩰