Race is on to be named first UK Town of Culture

A UK town could win £3.5 million to deliver a cultural programme during the summer of 2028 through a competition launched by the Culture Secretary.

- HANNAH ROBERTS

The Town of Culture competition will be targeted at small and medium-sized towns, with shortlisted towns receiving £60,000 to help deliver their full bids for the competition.

It follows in the footsteps of the UK City of Culture competition, which was won by the Yorkshire city of Bradford for 2025.

Lisa Nandy said: "For far too long, too many people have felt left out of our national story.

"These competitions are our chance to change that by shining a light on the places that have shaped our cultural life, but haven't always had the recognition they deserve.

"We already know from UK City of Culture that winning, and even bidding for, these titles brings real benefits - jobs, investment and opportunities for people to get creative and learn new skills.

"Now I want towns to be able to get these benefits too and that is why I am proud to launch the UK Town of Culture competition.