UK Government Shortlists 15 Towns for Town of Culture 2028

The Government of the United Kingdom has shortlisted 15 towns across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland for the inaugural UK Town of Culture 2028 title. Selected from 398 total bids, the candidates are divided into three size categories: small, medium, and large. Shortlisted locations include Basildon, Birkenhead, Leith, Corby, and Ilfracombe, though all applicants from Oxfordshire and several from Cumbria were unsuccessful.

Each of the 15 shortlisted towns will receive £60,000 to develop full proposals for an independent judging panel. A final winner in each category will be announced early next year, with the overall winner receiving a £3 million grant to host a season of culture in 2028. Two runners-up will each receive £250,000. The competition is a component of the Pride in Place Programme, which aims to replicate the success of the UK City of Culture initiative to foster community pride.

The selection process was guided by an independent panel chaired by Sir Phil Redmond. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that the competition was designed to shine a light on the contributions of towns to national life. To mark the process, National Museums Liverpool hosted a digital display featuring postcards from every town that submitted a bid.