Plymouth’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2029

We believe that this is Plymouth’s time to shine and we are ready to show the world we are a city of culture. We want to celebrate our proud city shaped by the sea and its dynamic histories because we know Plymouth’s history is part of Britain’s story. Plymouth has been investing in culture for decades. This means the city now has strong cultural infrastructure, a rich ecology of artists and organisations, and growing ambition. The bid is an opportunity to put culture at the heart of Plymouth’s future and share that story nationally.

Yes. Plymouth previously bid for City of Culture in 2017 but was unsuccessful. In hindsight we weren’t ready and our story and engagement wasn’t strong enough. Since then, the city has invested heavily in culture and is now in a much stronger position to deliver a compelling, community-led programme. 

Evidence from previous host cities shows that City of Culture can unlock long-term benefits, including increased investment, new jobs, skills development, civic pride and stronger communities – even beyond the programme year itself. We are confident that the process will help to galvanise partners and communities across the city and turbo charge the culture strategy. 

Victoria Pomery, CEO of The Box and Head of Culture for Plymouth City Council, and Hannah Harris, CEO of Plymouth Culture, are leading the development of the bid, with the full backing of Plymouth City Council and partners from across the city.

A year-long celebration of culture across the city open to all residents to participate in workshops, events, exhibitions, projects. This will cover the whole city and will be culture in its widest sense including art, festivals, food, community activity, sport, leisure, heritage and much more.  From community centres, libraries, music venues, playing fields, stadiums, schools, churches, theatres, museums, businesses, universities and cafes, Plymouth 2029 will showcase the creativity across the city and bring more cultural opportunities to residents. It will shine a light on what we have and provide the opportunity to fill any gaps in provision across the city. 

There will be opportunities to contribute ideas, take part in creative activity and help shape the bid as it develops. The bid will be co-created with Plymouth communities so there will be opportunity for residents to get involved in conversations, drop-in sessions and consultations to help shape the bid.

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The city has to submit an Expression of Interest by 8th February setting out our ambitions and credentials.

Up to 8 cities will be longlisted by March 2026 and will be invited to submit a full bid in the summer 2026.

Up to 4 cities will then be shortlisted and will receive a visit from the judging panel to be interviewed in Autumn 2026.

The winner will be announced by Winter 2026.