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A girl standing in an orange and yellow twisted hallway

Dopamine destinations: mood-boosting spots to brighten up winter

Blog post author - Carla

by Carla Abreu

What's in it for me?

  • Beat the winter blues
  • Instagrammable spots in London and beyond
  • Quirky activities for the whole family

Both kids and adults were laughing and enjoying the fun.

In an age where self-care and mental well-being are more important than ever, a rising trend in travel is capturing hearts and minds – dopamine destinations.

These vibrant, mood-boosting locations invite visitors to immerse themselves in colourful experiences, stimulating their senses and lifting their spirits. As we embrace the winter months, there’s no better time to explore these eye-catching spots, particularly those accessible via rail.

Behind this travel trend

At its core, dopamine decor is all about creating environments that evoke joy and positivity through bright colours, bold patterns, and eclectic designs. It contrasts sharply with minimalist aesthetics, favouring a “more is more” approach that energises spaces and inspires creativity.

This maximalist design trend is now encouraging travellers to seek out locations that reflect their personality and stimulate their senses.

Personally, I find that immersing myself in vibrant spaces can completely transform my mood. Whether it’s the warm glow of a sunset or a bustling market filled with colourful wares, these experiences invigorate me. There's something magical about stepping into a space bursting with colour – it feels like a gentle nudge from the universe to embrace life fully!

Display in the Twist museum

Vibrant Locations to Explore

Outernet London

One of my favourite spots during my vibrant adventure was Outernet London, a stunning free public space conveniently located just outside Tottenham Court Road Station. As I stepped into this immersive world, I was greeted by gigantic screens showcasing an experimental film called Forsaken.

The film’s visuals were breathtaking, highlighting the beauty of nature while simultaneously delivering a powerful message about its fragility. It served as a reminder that life is delicate and must be protected, but also that there is hope for recovery if we act now.

The experience left me feeling uplifted and inspired, perfectly setting the tone for my day of exploration.

View inside Outernet London

Twist Museum

After soaking in the impactful visuals at Outernet, I made my way to the Twist Museum, a short 15-minute stroll down Oxford Street. This museum was an absolute delight, offering a light-hearted and engaging approach to learning about light and optical illusions.

As I entered, I was immediately struck by the vibrant colours and inviting atmosphere. The museum featured an easy-to-follow one-way system, making it accessible for visitors of all ages.

I found myself captivated by the interactive exhibits, with both kids and adults alike laughing and enjoying the fun. The space was filled with opportunities for Instagrammable photos, and I couldn’t resist capturing some joyful moments amid the colourful displays.

Display in the Twist museum

Other notable destinations

If you're seeking more colourful winter travel destinations to explore, consider these fantastic options: 

Frameless: The Ultimate Immersive Art Experience: An immersive art experience that stimulates the senses, easily accessible via Marble Arch Station 

Van Gogh London Exhibit: The Immersive Experience: Dive into the vibrant world of Van Gogh through this stunning exhibition. The closest stations are Old Street and Shoreditch High Street 

Tate Modern: Renowned for its contemporary art, the Tate Modern is a treasure trove of colour and creativity, reachable via Blackfriars Station.

Upcoming UK light festivals

As winter approaches, consider visiting some upcoming light festivals that are sure to brighten your season.

Glow Wild, Wakehurst Place: Experience the magical light trail set in the beautiful gardens. Free transit to the event is available from Three Bridges Station. Select dates from 28 November to 1 January.

We Shine Portsmouth: A stunning light festival showcasing local talent. Accessible via Portsmouth & Southsea Stations. 21-23 November.

Leonardslee Lights at Leonardslee Gardens: This enchanting light festival takes place in the beautiful gardens of Leonardslee, reachable from Horsham Station. Select dates from 22 November to 30 December.

SteamLights at Bluebell Railway: A unique railway experience combining steam trains and festive lights, located near East Grinstead Station. Select date from 15 November to 30 December.

Burning the Clocks, Brighton: A vibrant celebration in Brighton featuring stunning lantern displays, accessible via Brighton Station. 21 December.

Stockwood Illuminated | The Culture Trust, Luton: Another captivating light festival to enjoy, accessible via Luton Station. 13-24 December.

Capturing Instagram-worthy photos

To make the most of your vibrant experiences, here are some tips for capturing stunning, instagrammable photos.

Timing is Everything: Visit during golden hour—early morning or late afternoon—when natural light enhances colours. 

Find Unique Angles: Explore different perspectives and don’t hesitate to get creative with your shots. 

Engage with the Art: Interact with installations; sometimes your movement can add a dynamic element to your photos and help you to feel more comfortable in front of the camera. 

Include People: Capture moments with friends or family to add context and emotion to your vibrant backdrop. 

A woman taking a photo in a mirrored room

Conclusion

Whether you’re venturing out with family, friends, or as a solo traveller, the UK’s colourful destinations offer a joyful escape this winter. So, hop on a train and explore these dopamine destinations via rail. Your next adventure is just a train ride away!

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