Hello, my darlings! It’s Pink Tutu Sparkles here, ready to spill the tea on my latest adventures! Oh, Rochester, you've been calling me! As I write this, the aroma of freshly baked scones fills the air – and I'm not even talking about the bakery! Rochester, you are a vision of quaint charm and vintage beauty, and this fabulous queen is absolutely ready to explore you, from the theatre to the cobbled streets.
Train Travel is for the Bold & The Beautiful!
My journey began with a delightful train ride! Yes, I said a train! There’s nothing like settling in for a comfy, luxurious journey, watching the English countryside fly past in a kaleidoscope of greens and golds, all while sipping on a delicious Earl Grey tea and writing down my adventures in my oh-so-fabulous pink-studded journal. And did I mention the stunning views from the train windows? Honestly, it’s like travelling in a moving picture postcard – pure enchantment!
Rochester – My Pink Tutu Love Affair
Reaching Rochester felt like entering a fairytale! I immediately felt drawn to its unique charm – imagine medieval castles, Tudor architecture, and charming, cobbled streets teeming with life and laughter, and you've got the essence of Rochester! But of course, for this Pink Tutu Queen, there’s one crucial thing Rochester just has to offer – ballet!
Rochester Ballet Club – A Tutu-ifically Delightful Discovery!
The moment I arrived, I dashed off to the Rochester Ballet Club, my heart beating in anticipation. This fabulous club boasts a reputation for world-class training, nurturing both seasoned professionals and young talents eager to soar on stage.
Walking into the club was like stepping into a haven for ballet enthusiasts! Imagine gleaming wooden floors, an elegant, sunlit studio space, the air filled with the sweet melody of a grand piano – absolute heaven! They have an incredible range of classes - from introductory beginners classes, through to the more advanced ones.
The teacher, a charming lady named Mrs. Bloom, has a grace that defies gravity! With the kindest of smiles, she welcomes everyone into her studio, making them feel like family, and helping everyone find their own rhythm. I learned the "swan lake" arm sequence today, it was pure joy to swirl and pirouette across the polished wooden floors, feeling like a ballerina in a fairy tale!
From Ballet to... Ballet? - Exploring Rochester’s Artistic Heart
My exploration of Rochester continued, each street a charming revelation! I stopped to watch a group of children perform street theatre - and what an amazing performance it was! It reminded me of those brilliant little performances in Derbyshire, back when I was in primary school - I played the witch in the “Sleeping Beauty” play, and honestly I’m convinced that's where I got my first taste for theatre - well, except maybe when I watched "The Nutcracker" in the gorgeous Derby theatre when I was just four!
My Dress Inspiration - The Pink Flamingo Emporium!
Let’s face it, a Pink Tutu Queen simply can’t visit a new city without indulging in a little bit of retail therapy! Now, I know that this is possibly the most important element of my trips, but ahem of course, I am a fabulous adventurer as well ! And Rochester has this magical store I have to show you. It’s called the “Pink Flamingo Emporium.” Oh my gosh, the sheer loveliness of this place will leave you breathless! Just a haven for everything in pink!
Picture this, my darling - overflowing racks of vintage clothing, from chic, silky dresses, to ruffled blouses in every shade of pink imaginable, delicate hats with flamboyant feathers, and an extensive collection of shoes… oh, my shoe heaven!
There were a plethora of pastel pinks, flamingos, cherries, rose pink… you name it. It's a pink lover's paradise. Of course, no Pink Tutu Sparkles trip to a pink store would be complete without purchasing at least one new addition to my tutu collection. This time, it's a fluffy, light pink number that reminds me of fluffy cotton candy on a warm summer’s day! It's gonna be the perfect addition to my next show – get ready for fireworks, Rochester!
The Royal Oak, Rochester - Where the Cocktails are Strong & the Friends are Fab!
No journey, even for a Pink Tutu Queen, can end without a stop at a charming pub for a delicious meal and some bubbly company! And Rochester has the best pubs, that are a delightful combination of comfort and history! And The Royal Oak? Oh, it just had to be my choice – and the food - just delicious! The creamy mashed potatoes were just like the ones my mama makes - oh, the comfort food feels! I enjoyed a delicious fish pie with a glass of a delightfully bubbly rose wine (which may or may not have had a touch of champagne in it…) whispers.
A Message to my Dearest Readers!
I’m ready to head back to Derbyshire – I have a tutu-ific show coming up this Saturday! As I leave Rochester behind, the thought that continues to bubble through my mind is… how could I have stayed away so long? The warmth of the people, the picturesque views, the dazzling shops - Rochester, you are my new kind of happily ever after. I'm so grateful for your unique magic.
Of course, every journey, every new destination is just the perfect reason for a new tutu, don’t you agree?
Oh, and did I tell you I just picked out my costume for next weeks performance?? I've got this glorious, sparkly pink sequin dress – think Marilyn Monroe and rainbows – it’s gonna blow the roof off the performance venue. giggles Oh, my darlings! Stay tuned for a glimpse of my new dress soon, but just promise me… you’ll wear a pink tutu sometime! You can find amazing ones online and in many vintage shops – try and find that little extra magic inside you and don’t be afraid to twirl!
See you next week!
Lots of love & pink sparkle!
Pink Tutu Sparkles!
