Bristol looks to make a bid for UK City of Culture 2029
Councillors are set to vote on whether to begin the process to secure one of the nation’s most prestigious cultural titles
Bristol is looking to submit an expression of interest to become the UK City of Culture in 2029.
On 20th January, the Strategy and Resources Policy Committee will vote on whether to begin the process to secure one of the nation’s most prestigious cultural titles.
The UK City of Culture programme celebrates the creativity and community spirit of urban areas, often bringing lasting benefits such as increased local pride, boosted economies, and stronger community connections.
It is hoped that, for Bristol, this would also make cultural experiences more accessible across all communities.
A city-wide vision
Philip Walker, Head of Culture at Bristol City Council, said the bid plans would focus on making culture in Bristol more inclusive while celebrating the city’s grassroots creativity:
“Our city is renowned for its creativity – from street art and music to festivals and independent venues. While we take pride in our city’s offer, not everyone has equal access to cultural experiences. Barriers such as cost, location, and representation mean some communities feel disconnected from Bristol’s cultural offer.
“A bid for UK City of Culture would aim to change that... For Bristol, this means cementing culture as a means to tackle inequality, strengthen communities, and inspire future generations.
“We want to empower a whole city bid that captures the spirit of the sector and the communities of Bristol... Should the committee give us the go ahead to start the bidding process we want to build a bid on the power our cultural offer has to bring people together, foster understanding, and strengthen the voices of our communities.”
Dr Anna Rutherford, Co-Chair of Bristol’s One City Culture Board, said: “Bristol is ready to be UK City of Culture: our city breathes creativity, we’re a city of makers, innovators and storytellers, with an international reputation and a fiercely local heartbeat.
“A UK City of Culture year would grow the sector, attract visitors and partners, and offer a chance for civic renewal, leaving a lasting legacy of stronger communities, skills and civic pride. Bristol’s Culture Board are proud to back a bid from the city.”
Development of an Expression of Interest has been led by local cultural leaders and organisations who volunteered their time to shape the city’s vision. If approved, it will be submitted at no cost to the council.
Latoyah McAllister-Jones, Founding Partner & Lead Facilitator at Citizens for Culture, added that the bid has the potential to deliver lasting benefit across the wider West of England region.
Next steps
If councillors approve the move, Bristol will submit an expression of interest to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport before proceeding through several competitive stages. A development grant of £60,000 would be available to support the next phase if Bristol is shortlisted.
The bid, if successful, would unite cultural organisations, community groups, businesses, and residents to create an inclusive, sustainable, and transformative programme for the city.
“We’re a city uniquely alive with civic and creative energy,” Dr Rutherford said. “This bid will embed togetherness and shared opportunity, celebrating the diversity that binds us while actively strengthening our communities.”