Wellbeing enhanced more by places than objects, study finds

Research using brain scans finds people experience feelings of contentment from places more than from objects such as photographs or wedding rings

The poet WHAuden is credited with first coining the word "topophilia" to describe a strong emotional pull to a special place.

Now scientific research, using cutting-edge brain imaging, suggests Auden was on to something. According to a study commissioned by the National Trust, people experience intense feelings of wellbeing, contentment and belonging from places that evoke positive memories far more than treasured objects such as photographs or wedding rings.