UK City of Culture
Swindon is one of the nine towns and cities successfully longlisted for the UK City of Culture 2029, and it’s something worth feeling proud of.
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- UK City of Culture
What does it represent?
Recognition, belief and momentum.
Being longlisted for City of Culture 2029 reflects the strength of what’s already happening in Swindon. It recognises the people, organisers and communities creating activity across the town, often without national attention. More than a label, it’s a signal of confidence. A chance to put Swindon and the centre of national celebration, to tell Swindon’s story, celebrate its identity and build pride in the place, here and across the UK.
What could it mean for Swindon?
Looking ahead at the opportunity, not just the title.
UK City of Culture has the potential to bring long-term benefits, from increased visibility and investment to more opportunities for local people to take part in what’s happening around them. Previous winners have found the year transformational for their towns and cities, and just being in the running can accelerate positive change. It can help strengthen partnerships, support jobs and skills, and create moments that stay with the town long after the year itself.
Your questions, answered
City of Culture can sound big and abstract. Here are some straightforward answers to what it means for Swindon and the people who live here.
What does being in the final nine mean?
Swindon being longlisted means it’s recognised nationally as a place with strong ideas, community energy and ambition. It opens up conversation about future opportunity, whether or not the final title is awarded. A final shortlist will be created this autumn, with the winner announced in January 2027.
Is City of Culture just about arts and venues?
No, City of Culture is about people, places and everyday life. It includes events and creativity, but it also reflects how communities gather, how ideas are shared and how places feel to live in. It’s as much about participation as performance.
Have your say
City of Culture is shaped by people, not just plans.
If you’re interested in being part of the conversation, sharing ideas or shaping what happens next, the Swindon Culture Collective is the place to start. It supports the people and organisations behind activity across the town and plays a key role in developing the City of Culture bid. Whether you want to get involved now or simply stay informed, there’s space to connect.
What’s happening across Swindon
Why this matters to people
Be part of it
Explore what’s happening in Swindon and take part in the activity shaping the town right now.
