Penzance bids to become first UK Town of Culture
The town is competing against local rivals including Falmouth, Newquay, Helston, and Redruth
Last updated 6th Feb 2026
Penzance has announced its bid to become the first UK Town of Culture.
The competition, launched by the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS), is inspired by the success of the UK City of Culture initiative, and seeks to highlight the unique contributions towns make to the UK's national story.
Penzance has been described as the 'cultural capital of Cornwall,' a title reflecting the town’s arts scene that includes painters, playwrights, poets, and pirates.
Penzance's bid
Recognised by Creative England for its creative industries, Penzance hosts popular events such as the Golowan Festival and Montol Festival.
Penzance Council say the town's bid will build on it's culturally-rich offering – already renowned for its mix of art, music, food, theatre, community and tradition.
Competing for the top spot in Cornwall, Penzance faces local rivals like Falmouth, Newquay, Helston, and Redruth.
What the UK Town of Culture Competition Offers
The winning town will receive £3 million to implement a cultural programme in 2028.
Towns have until 31st March 2026 to submit their expressions of interest.
Short-listed towns will be invited to develop more detailed bids, with category finalists receiving £250,000 each to bring elements of their projects to life.
A Unique Heritage
Penzance's name derives from the Cornish 'Pennsans,' meaning 'Holy Head,' symbolised by the patron saint, St John the Baptist’s head, as depicted on the Mayoral Chain, Town Seal and featured on the historic Market House and a number of key buildings across Penzance.
The council say "whilst competition is expected to be fierce, with entries from right across the UK, only one town comes to the table with a head on a plate."