The UK government has today, 14 January 2026, launched a landmark national competition to crown the country's first ever UK Town of Culture. This new initiative aims to identify towns that will champion and deliver the Government’s Plan for Change, celebrating local heritage and community spirit on a national stage.
How the UK Town of Culture Competition Works
Towns from across the United Kingdom are now invited to submit their Expressions of Interest. The process will be overseen by an expert panel led by Sir Phil Redmond. Judges will assess entries based on how compellingly a town tells its unique story, its plans for bringing the whole community together, and the viability of its cultural vision.
The most promising bids will make it to a shortlist, with each shortlisted town receiving £60,000 to develop a full submission. From this, three finalists will be chosen: one small, one medium, and one large town. The ultimate winner will be named the UK Town of Culture 2028 and be awarded a £3 million prize. The two runners-up will not leave empty-handed, each securing £250,000 to deliver key parts of their proposal, which could range from community infrastructure projects to electric music festivals.
The deadline for the initial Expressions of Interest is 31 March 2026, with the shortlist expected to be announced this Spring.
West Midlands Contenders for the Crown
With the competition now open, several towns in the West Midlands region stand out as strong potential candidates, each boasting a rich tapestry of history and culture.
Stratford-upon-Avon is a global cultural icon as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Attracting over 2.5 million visitors annually, its profound literary heritage makes it a formidable contender for the title.
Known as the 'Queen of the Staffordshire Moorlands', Leek is a historic market town with a fascinating past rooted in the textile industry. While administratively in Staffordshire, it forms a key part of the wider West Midlands cultural landscape.
The historic town of Warwick, with a population of 37,267, is dominated by its magnificent 12th-century castle. This architectural gem provides a powerful foundation for a bid centred on living history and tourism.
Finally, the medieval market town of Ludlow, established after the Norman conquest, offers a picturesque setting on the River Teme. Its well-preserved character and independent spirit, located just over an hour and a half from Birmingham, present a compelling case for cultural recognition.
The Road to 2028
This competition represents a significant opportunity for towns to gain national recognition and substantial investment in their cultural futures. It moves the spotlight beyond cities, aiming to unlock the unique potential and stories held in the UK's diverse towns. The journey to find the inaugural UK Town of Culture for 2028 has now officially begun.
