Swindon reaches final nine in UK City of Culture 2029 bid

Swindon is celebrating after being longlisted for the UK City of Culture 2029 title, marking a major milestone in the town’s ambitious bid to showcase its creativity and heritage.

The longlist, announced following the initial expression of interest stage, recognises locations across the UK that have set out ambitious plans to use culture as a driver for regeneration, community engagement and economic growth. Swindon now moves forward to the next phase of the national competition.

Being named UK City of Culture is widely seen as a transformative opportunity. Previous winners, including Hull, Coventry and Bradford, have used the title to attract investment, increase visitor numbers and showcase local creativity on a national and international stage.

Swindon’s bid is being led by Swindon Borough Council in partnership with Swindon Culture Collective, bringing together local artists, organisations and community groups to shape a vision that reflects the town’s identity and future ambitions.

The town has already been building momentum, with significant investment in arts and culture and a growing network of creative organisations working collaboratively to strengthen Swindon’s cultural offer.

Reaching the final nine is an important step in the process. The next stage will see shortlisted locations invited to develop full bids, with the overall winner expected to be announced later in 2026.

If successful, Swindon could benefit from major funding and a year-long programme of cultural events in 2029, designed to celebrate its heritage, creativity and community while boosting the local economy and raising its profile nationally.