Frome bids to become UK's next Town of Culture
Town submits application to celebrate culture and community
Last updated 20th Apr 2026
Frome Town Council has taken its first steps towards securing the prestigious title of UK's Town of Culture by submitting an expression of interest in the national competition.
The competition aims to honour towns where culture is an integral part of daily life, promoting community wellbeing, economic growth, and a sense of identity.
Supported by a well-attended stakeholder meeting, Frome’s bid highlights its vibrant cultural scene, including nationally recognised venues, festivals, and community events such as the Frome Carnival and Children’s Festival.
If Frome is shortlisted, it will receive £60,000 to develop a full application and compete for the ultimate prize of £3 million to implement its cultural programme.
The council is actively seeking input and ideas from the community via its digital engagement platform, My Frome, to ensure residents can contribute to shaping the final proposal.
Local councillor Tracey Ashford shared her perspective on why Frome is a strong contender: "The sheer numbers of people and organisations who are involved in culture...The passion of the people in this town that make things happen is extraordinary...We punch above our weight every time."
Ashford expressed optimism about the potential impact of the funding: "It's about opening up what we already have to more people...making it more accessible to reach people who don't currently feel that culture perhaps is for them."
The proposed cultural programme aims to foster a lasting legacy by expanding cultural accessibility and exploring educational opportunities for young people.
Ashford highlighted existing efforts to engage young people, such as the initiatives by Cheese and Grain, which offers professional recording and music industry training that has collected national and international recognition.
"We want to reflect what people actually want to see," Ashford said, emphasising the importance of community input in shaping the programme.
Residents' contributions are considered crucial to creating meaningful and imaginative cultural projects that reflect community desires.
“We don’t need it for the reputation. What the bid is about, it's about turning those strengths into opportunity,” Ashford explained.
Even if the bid does not result in winning the title, Ashford remains optimistic: “We can use and harness the spirit and skills to galvanise together even if we don’t win.”
The council remains committed to involving locals in shaping a legacy of creativity and opportunity for Frome, with preparations and excitement evident in the town.