Towns of any size can apply to be named UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive £3million to deliver an ambitious programme of cultural activity in 2028. The aim is to celebrate towns and help to create a lasting cultural legacy.
There is an initial Expression of Interest phase followed by a full application process for shortlisted towns: all the shortlisted towns will receive a development grant of £60,000. From these, three finalists – one small, one medium and one large town – will be selected. The winner will be the UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive £3million, with the other two finalists each receiving £250,000.
Applications will be judged on three main criteria:
- Your story – you will need to tell the unique story of your town and its culture
- Culture for everyone – setting out your design for a cultural programme that provides visible, accessible culture
- Making it happen – how you will deliver a successful programme, including how you will work in partnership to create new opportunities and lasting connections
You are encouraged to include activities encompassing a broad definition of culture and how it relates to your town’s history, story and community. This can include visual arts, literature, music, theatre, dance, architecture, crafts, heritage and the historic and natural environment, film, photography and more.
All towns in the UK can apply (with the exception of areas within Greater London). The three categories are:
- Small town – population under 20,000
- Medium town – population of 20,000 to 75,000
- Large town – population over 75,000
Bids are expected to come from a partnership of organisations representing your town and to include the relevant local authorities.
DCMS plans to host an online information session for all interested bidders on 21 January 2026. Please contact uktownofculture2028-competition@dcms.gov.uk with any questions and to register interest.
Focus of fund/fund aims:
Towns in the UK can apply to be UK Town of Culture 2028
Application deadline:
Expressions of Interest by 31 March 2026