‘To showcase what makes our town so special on a national stage’
One of Cornwall’s most popular visitor destinations is preparing its entry to become the UK Town of Culture 2028.
Famous for being the UK’s Number One surf destination, Newquay Town Council and Newquay BID are working together to highlight the town’s growing cultural attractions and community activities – with an aim to secure the 2028 national title for culture.
The competition is open to small, medium and large towns across the UK and will award funding to deliver a cultural programme during 2028.
The UK Town of Culture is a national programme which aims to support towns in highlighting their identities and delivering accessible cultural events for residents and visitors.
If successful, Newquay would receive investment to support a wide range of activity shaped by the town’s communities and organisations. The team is working closely with a small group of partners, including Newquay Town Team.
Supporters of the bid explain the work represents the starting point of a wider process and if Newquay is shortlisted then the team aim to engage in a wider engagement to try to ensure the bid is led by the community and is reflective of the town’s identity.
‘As Mayor of Newquay, I am incredibly proud to announce our bid for UK Town of Culture 2028. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase what makes our town so special on a national stage,’ says Drew Creek, Mayor of Newquay.
‘Newquay is defined by its unique environment, world-renowned surf, breathtaking coastline, and a vibrant spirit that resonates year-round.’
‘As Cornwall’s busiest visitor destination and a town with the largest permanent population, we have a dynamic, creative, and expanding community.’
Image: Tony Powell / Shutterstock
‘This bid is about harnessing that energy’
‘Our cultural life is a powerful blend of our rich coastal heritage and a forward-looking, energetic community spirit.’
‘This bid is about harnessing that energy. It’s a chance to celebrate the talent and passion within our community, support our local businesses beyond the summer season, and build lasting pride in our town.’
‘We want to create a cultural programme that is truly by Newquay, for Newquay, reflecting our identity and ambition. I encourage everyone in our community to join us in shaping this exciting journey.’
The emerging focus of the bid is centred on Newquay’s markets, festivals, live events, surf and coastal culture, food and drink scene – and its ever expanding creative community.
The partners aim to demonstrate how Newquay’s growing year round population is contributing to increased demand for accessible cultural activity beyond the traditional tourist season.
If shortlisted, Newquay would receive development funding to create a detailed cultural programme.
This would be developed in partnership with residents, community groups, event organisers and local businesses to ensure it reflects the town’s identity and long term ambitions.
The project aims to support local talent, strengthen community involvement and build pride in place.
‘A vibrant and distinctive cultural town’
‘We are so excited to be involved in working with all the amazing partners across Newquay to deliver a strong Expression of Interest,’ says Mark Warren, Manager of Newquay BID.
‘With such a vibrant and distinctive cultural town, we have a great opportunity to deliver something really special.’
Newquay Town Council and Newquay BID will now prepare the Expression of Interest ahead of the national deadline.
They explain that updates are scheduled to be shared as the process continues – with opportunities for wider involvement if the bid progresses.
