Buxton Among Over 400 Towns Bidding to Become UK Town of Culture 2028
[This press release was issued by Buxton Crecent Heritage Trust]
Buxton has today been confirmed as one of more than 400 towns across the UK to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to become the first-ever UK Town of Culture in 2028, following the Department for Culture, Media and Sport's (DCMS) national announcement on 2 July.
DCMS has launched a new interactive map showcasing every town in the running, including 12 Derbyshire towns competing for the title. The map also features a digital postcard for each place, celebrating its cultural identity and story. Buxton's postcard - highlighting its world-famous spa heritage, vibrant festivals, and thriving creative community - can be viewed at : Town of Culture 2028 | Applicants - Google My Maps or http://bit.ly/3SEMea8
A Collaborative Bid Representing the Whole Town
Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust has led the bid on behalf of the town, working closely with partners through the We Are Buxton Community Forum and the Buxton Cultural Collective. The Collective brings together Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust, Buxton Opera House, Buxton International Festival, Buxton Festival Fringe, Babbling Vagabonds, Stone & Water, Buxton Civic Association, and more than 80 artists, makers, and cultural organisations from across the area.
This shared effort reflects Buxton's long-standing tradition of collaboration - where heritage, creativity, and community come together to shape a distinctive cultural identity.
Simon Wallwork, CEO of Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust, said
"Being named among the towns bidding for UK Town of Culture is a proud moment for Buxton. Our submission is rooted in partnership and driven by the belief that culture belongs to everyone. The DCMS postcards show just how rich and varied the UK's cultural landscape is, and Buxton is ready to stand confidently within it."
Jean Ball, We Are Buxton, added:
"Our wonderful town is full of creative people and possibilities with even more happening than most of us are aware of. This bid is about bringing that creativity into the spotlight, giving talent the space and nourishment to grow, and celebrating Buxton as a cultural hub. We welcome the opportunity for Buxton to be recognised nationally as part of this exciting competition."
Jon Pearce, MP for High Peak, said:
"I'm delighted to see Buxton listed among the contenders for town of culture. Buxton's cultural offer is already exceptional, and this competition gives us a chance to take it to another level for the benefit not just of the town and the region but for whole country. I look forward to the next stage."
Claire Ward, East Midlands Mayor, welcomed the news:
"Buxton's ambition and collaborative spirit shine through in this bid. The Town of Culture competition is a fantastic opportunity for places across our region to celebrate their identity, heritage, and creativity. It's great to see Buxton stepping forward with such enthusiasm."
Local Authority Support
If Buxton is successful, High Peak Borough Council will play a central role in delivering the Town of Culture programme, including managing the funding allocated by DCMS.
Councillor Anthony McKeown, Leader of the Council, said:
"Although there will be many deserving towns taking part in this competition, as the postcard shows Buxton already has a fine reputation as a place of culture, with famous buildings and venues, events and a thriving cultural community. We just need the impetus of becoming the first UK Town of Culture to realise our true potential.
"Winning the competition would also sit perfectly with our ambitious £100 million plan to revitalise a key part of the town centre with a new housing, leisure and retail offer."
What Happens Next
DCMS has confirmed that the shortlist for UK Town of Culture 2028 will be announced at the end of July 2026. Shortlisted towns will then be invited to develop full proposals for the next stage of the competition.
The overall winner will receive £3 million to deliver a landmark cultural programme in 2028, with £250,000 awarded to two finalists.
Published by Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust on 2 July 2026
