Four locations have been shortlisted in the competition to be named UK City of Culture 2029. The successful bid will be revealed in early 2027 and will receive £10 million to stage a programme of cultural events and initiatives over the course of a year.
The shortlisted areas were chosen from a larger field of applicants after a period of assessment by organisers. Those that have progressed will now develop detailed proposals outlining how they would use the award to deliver cultural programmes and engage communities.
The £10 million prize is intended to support a year of cultural activity, enabling the winning location to plan and deliver events, projects and partnerships. The funding is aimed at helping the recipient to showcase local artists and organisations and to create a concentrated period of cultural programming.
Shortlisted places typically use the time between selection and the final announcement to refine plans, build partnerships and consult local stakeholders. The period also allows organisers and judges to assess the feasibility and potential impact of each bid before a final decision is made.
The announcement in early 2027 will end the shortlisting stage and allow the winner to begin detailed preparations for the 2029 programme, drawing on the financial award to implement their proposals and deliver a year focused on cultural activity.