In our fast-paced world, we often move through familiar places on autopilot. But what if we took a different approach-one that embraced curiosity, spontaneity and surprise? That’s where the concept of the dérive comes in.

Coined by the Situationist International in the 1950s, a dérive is a kind of “drift”-an unplanned journey through urban space, guided by the landscape and your instincts rather than a map or a destination. It’s about noticing, not navigating. Wandering, not commuting. Here are five simple ways to try it for yourself.

1. Follow a colour

Pick a colour-any colour. Red, green, turquoise, chartreuse. Then walk, turning only in the direction where you can spot that colour. Maybe it’s a red postbox or someone’s coat. Let the colour guide you. It’s a playful way to reframe the world around you and sharpen your observation skills.

2. Amble after a sound

Start walking and listen closely. Is that a street performer in the distance? A barking dog? A faint hum of music from an open window? Let your feet follow the sound. You’ll notice things you’d normally tune out-textures, rhythms and stories unfolding in real time.

3. Flick a coin; left or right

Bring a coin along and let it decide your next move. Heads for right, tails for left. Or create your own rules. It removes the pressure to plan and opens up routes you’d never usually take. You might find a new shortcut, a hidden alleyway or even just a new favourite bench. A lot easier than using dice.

4. Walk until something interrupts you

Leave the house and keep walking until something disrupts your path. A closed road, a group of pigeons, a busker, a smell. When it happens, let it influence your next decision. Do you pause, detour, engage? The city becomes a collaborator, not just a backdrop.

5. Explore through a theme

Pick a theme-such as ‘circles’, ‘reflections’ or ‘things out of place’-and explore with that lens in mind. Take photos, sketch or write short notes as you go. You’ll start to see your surroundings differently, uncovering patterns and peculiarities you’d usually miss.

Why go on a dérive?

Dérives are more than whimsical walks. They’re a way to connect with your environment, loosen your grip on routine and invite serendipity into your day. Whether you’re exploring a new city or reimagining your local streets, give yourself permission to get lost-in the best way possible.