Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-wearing princess, Pink Tutu Sparkles, signing in from the beautiful Lake District! This is blog post number 4211, and today, I'm gonna spill the tea on my recent travels to the charming city of Carlisle, where, let me tell you, I made a splash (and a twirl, of course!).
Now, let's rewind a bit... you all know I'm a creature of habit when it comes to getting to a new location. Planes? Nope, too common. Cars? Meh, a bit too "everyman" for this princess. So naturally, I opted for a lovely train journey - think comfy carriage seats, scenic views, and a little pink champagne to celebrate my impending arrival in the gorgeous city of Carlisle! It's not just the romantic in me that loves the train, you see, it allows me time to craft my outfit perfectly. Pink? Oh, of course! Tutu? Obviously! I'm Pink Tutu Sparkles, after all, so the outfit has to be just right. This time I went for a gorgeous hot pink sparkly tulle number - oh darling, it shimmered in the daylight! And as you all know, the perfect dress requires the perfect hair, so I created a fabulous beehive that reached the heavens above - a symphony of pink and tulle with the perfect amount of sparkle, darling!
Once in Carlisle, the first stop had to be the Theatre Royal! Honestly, it’s an absolute beauty, tucked away in the centre of town. This magnificent old building has seen the likes of Shakespeare himself and it practically begged to be twirled in, don't you think? They put on all sorts of shows, too – from classic plays to modern musicals, even ballet! 🩰 Speaking of ballet, I did pop in to see what they had going on, hoping to see some local talent in a ballet shoe, perhaps. Well, let's just say that Carlisle is packed with a hidden pool of incredible ballet dancers! I found myself so captivated watching them rehearse, I practically felt myself wanting to join in, tutus twirling in the air... who knew? But alas, it was time to move on.
Now, it wouldn't be a true Pink Tutu Sparkles adventure without some proper pink shopping, darling! Carlisle's independent shops are so much fun! Think charming little boutiques brimming with vintage finds and quirky creations – pure pink princess heaven! Oh, the gorgeous colours and the textures! I snagged a fab pair of pink silk gloves, perfect for pairing with my tutus and a little black dress. And darling, don’t even get me started on the shoe shop - pink pumps galore!
But, of course, no trip is complete without experiencing the local culture. So I made my way to the historic Carlisle Castle, which is steeped in history - it’s like taking a walk through time, surrounded by stories of kings, queens, and even battles! I couldn't help but feel the echo of the past swirling around me as I posed for some magnificent photos, my tulle cascading majestically. The castle's got such amazing views of the city too, and those mountains just beyond. Such a gorgeous setting for a real fairytale photoshoot! 💖
Then it was off to the Carlisle Museum and Art Gallery – and let me tell you, they have a fascinating collection! I loved wandering through their Roman exhibits. Did you know that Carlisle was a major Roman outpost in the UK, once called Luguvalium? I even spotted some beautiful ancient jewellery - I do adore Roman fashion, it’s so simple, bold, and dramatic - very easy to create a statement look for your queenly travels. I think Roman influence is definitely a thing we see on the runway every year! And it is even better in real life.
But darling, let’s get back to Carlisle's beautiful architecture for a moment - did you know they have some truly lovely cathedrals and churches here? I felt so very at peace surrounded by the sheer majesty of these architectural wonders. So full of light and colours, it was simply a breathtaking sight. Of course, the whole area is absolutely overflowing with gardens, green spaces, and of course, those glorious lakes – ideal for an afternoon of peaceful contemplation! But of course, one must dress accordingly – a splash of colour with an ethereal flowing tutu can turn even the most dreary day into a royal moment, darlings!
But it wouldn’t be a real trip without a fabulous dinner. So I booked a table at a charming little restaurant near the castle. The menu was absolutely delightful - lots of fresh local produce with delicious meat and fish – and the atmosphere was truly delightful! I found myself so caught up in the joy of good company and delicious food. Oh, and of course, they had the most fabulous dessert platter!
Of course, every trip for your Queen is about discovering new talents! So it goes without saying, I had to find a new way to embrace Carlisle and its surrounding area. My travel book told me all about the Cumbria Tourism Company and their lovely activities... I have a real passion for adventure and horses and horseback riding. Well, darling, that led to me finding the most incredible stables.
And just like that, I found myself perched on the back of a beautiful white stallion, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. And the lakes, let me tell you, were truly breathtaking. I felt myself falling in love with the majestic landscapes and the sheer sense of freedom I experienced galloping through those fields – I almost had tears in my eyes from the sheer delight!
And as my stay drew to a close, I was so sad to leave Carlisle, my beautiful tutu trailing behind me. But darling, every goodbye is just a hello to a new adventure! I promise to share more of my travels and all of the fabulous pink tutus I will wear. You know that your favourite pink tutu queen just loves a little dramatic flair - remember that everyone should embrace a bit of pink in their lives, it's a shade for all! 💖
But before I go, let me remind you to join me at the lovely www.pink-tutu.com where I share my life and travels each and every day! Don’t forget to comment with all of your latest fashion requests and stories.
See you all soon, darlings, for my next glamorous adventure.
Love and pink sparkles,
Pink Tutu Sparkles! 💖💖💖
