We’re on the longlist – now we need you!
Milton Keynes has been longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029 – a major opportunity to showcase our city’s creativity, ambition and communities on a national stage.
Now is the time to get involved. Support the bid, share your ideas and help shape what City of Culture could look like for Milton Keynes.
What is UK City of Culture?
UK City of Culture is a national title, awarded every four years by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Previous winners include Hull, Coventry and Bradford.
Milton Keynes is one of just nine places across the UK invited to develop a full bid, which will be submitted in August 2026. The winning city will be announced in late 2026 / early 2027
Why it matters
Being UK City of Culture is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to:
- Raise the profile of Milton Keynes nationally and internationally
- Attract investment, visitors and new opportunities
- Support local artists, creatives and communities
- Build long-term pride in place and cultural growth
Other cities have seen millions of visitors, major investment, and lasting cultural and economic impact
A bid shaped by the whole city
This is a bid for everyone. We want to hear from residents, artists, communities, schools and businesses across Milton Keynes.
Together, we will shape a vision that reflects:
- Every part of the city
- Our diverse communities
- Our creativity, culture and ambition for the future
Get involved
There are lots of ways to take part:
- Join a session and share your ideas – CLICK HERE
- Online survey launching here soon
- Sign up for updates and support the bid, go to:
culture@milton-keynes.gov.ukÂ
Your ideas will help shape the programme and vision for 2029.
