Overview
- Expressions of Interest are open until 31 March 2026 for towns seeking the UK Town of Culture 2028 title.
- The competition is open to small, medium and large towns, with three finalists selected by size before a single winner is named.
- Each shortlisted town will receive £60,000 to develop a full bid, with a £3 million award for the winner and £250,000 for two runners-up.
- An independent advisory panel chaired by Sir Phil Redmond will judge bids against three criteria: Your story, Culture for everyone, and Making it happen.
- The programme forms part of the government’s Plan for Change and follows the Pride in Place funding, with a shortlist expected in spring 2026.