For those wanting to stay closer to home this summer, there is brilliant news for British holidaymakers.Three UK destinations have just been ranked among the world’s most colourful places, beating famous European rivals.
The study has ranked Tobermory, the capital of the Isle of Mull in the Scottish Inner Hebrides, as one of the world’s most colourful destinations, with score of 65.06 out of 100. The study used cutting-edge image processing software to create a “ChromaTravel Index,” scoring 26 destinations worldwide on colour saturation, vibrancy, and hue variation. “There’s something about stepping into a place full of colour that instantly lifts you. It changes how you feel, how you move through the space, and even how you connect with others,” explains colour psychology expert Karen Haller, who supported the research. ”That’s why colour-filled destinations are becoming more popular.” Tobermory is a busy harbour on the Isle of Mull within the Scottish Hebrides. It is most famous for starring as the backdrop of beloved CBeebies children’s series Balamory.
Originally established as a harbour town during the late 18th century, Tobermory boasts a sweeping bay framed by magnificently painted buildings.
The location serves as a wildlife sanctuary, with vessels departing from the town offering excursions to observe minke whales, harbour porpoises, various dolphin species (including bottlenose, common and striped varieties) and seals during expeditions ranging from one hour to week-long adventures.
Tobermory’s famous brightly painted harbour houses create a rainbow effect that scored higher than Mediterranean favourites – Perfect for families seeking scenic beauty without the high prices of international destinations.
“Tobermory’s cheerful waterfront houses bring a burst of colour to Scotland’s west coast, creating a sense of warmth and welcome even on the coldest days,” says Karen.
“Brightly painted houses made it easier for fishermen to spot their homes and local businesses from the harbour or while out at sea, especially in misty or overcast weather.
“Painted in strong red, yellow, blue and black, the buildings have become iconic alongside the harbourfront and even served as the filming location for the television series Balamory. Many guidebooks and travel resources describe them as adding notable cheer to the town during its long, grey winters.”
The research was backed by colour psychology expert Karen Haller providing her insights into why these destinations have such powerful appeal: “We’re drawn to them not just because they look good, but because they leave us feeling better. Happier. More open. More alive. It’s something I do myself, seeking out places where colour isn’t just seen, it’s felt. And those are the experiences that stay with you.”
While British destinations claimed three spots in the top 25, they faced stiff competition from international rivals. Chefchaouen, Morocco came in first place and with score of 73/100, Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark scored 72.8/100 and in third place was Bo-Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa , scoring 72/100.
But British gems held their own against many of the world’s most photogenic places, proving UK holidays offer genuine world-class experiences.