Bridgwater has officially announced its intention to bid for the title of UK Town of Culture 2028.
Long known as a town that stands its ground, speaks its mind and fights for change, Bridgwater’s cultural identity is rooted in a history unlike any other place in the country. Each year, Bridgwater welcomes tens of thousands of visitors for one of Britain’s most spectacular and historic traditions, filling the streets with lights, extraordinary energy and creativity.
The UK Town of Culture competition is open to towns of all sizes across the country. The winning place will receive a £3 million investment to deliver a six‑month cultural programme in 2028.
For Bridgwater, this is far more than a competition entry, it is a driver of opportunity, pride and regeneration, using culture as a catalyst for community growth, wellbeing and economic benefit.
If successful, Bridgwater would deliver an ambitious programme of arts, music, performance, heritage and wellbeing activities, co-created with local residents, artists, businesses, schools and community organisations.
As a small town with big ambitions, Bridgwater has countless stories to tell, stories of resistance, innovation, river trade, migration, carnival, working‑class solidarity and a shared identity that has shaped generations.
The town is rich with culture in everyday life, here, culture lives in our neighbourhoods, our community groups, our streets and our traditions.
Councillor Brian Smedley, Leader of Bridgwater Town Council said,
“Bridgwater has always been a town that challenges the status quo and UK Town of Culture 2028 gives us the chance to tell that story on a national stage.
“This bid is our chance to recognise the spirit that has always defined Bridgwater. We are a town that speaks up, thinks differently and isn’t afraid to lead. UK Town of Culture 2028 gives us the platform to share that story with the rest of the country.”
Bridgwater Town Council will continue to work closely with local groups, cultural organisations, businesses and residents to shape its expression of interest for the competition.
As part of this process, people who live, work or study in Bridgwater are being invited to share their views and ideas about what makes the town special and what culture means to them. Residents can take part in the short survey and have their say on Bridgwater by visiting https://forms.office.com/e/nte8hX3Naf
The bid will focus on three main areas set out in the national guidance: Your Story, Culture for Everyone and Making it Happen.
The deadline for submitting an expression of interest is 31 March.
Bridgwater’s bid for UK Town of Culture 2028 is not just about celebrating the past; it is about defining the future. A future that is bold, independent, rebellious and unmistakably Bridgwater.
