Worthing and Littlehampton Town of Culture 2028 Bids
Worthing and Littlehampton have both entered the new UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, which offers £3 million to fund a cultural programme of around six months in 2028. Three East Sussex towns are also in the running: Eastbourne, Hastings, and Bexhill. Expressions of Interest close on 31 March 2026, with a shortlist expected in spring.
What Is the UK Town of Culture?
The UK Town of Culture 2028 is a new competition run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It is the first time the government has created a Town of Culture title. It is distinct from the existing UK City of Culture competition and is designed to recognise smaller communities.
The winner will receive:
- £3 million to deliver a cultural programme of around six months in 2028
- National recognition and the formal Town of Culture designation
The government guidance also sets out funding for the runner-up towns and for places that progress beyond the initial Expression of Interest stage.
Worthing's Bid
Worthing's bid has received cross-party backing from local MPs, who raised the town's candidacy in a Westminster Hall debate in January 2026.
Worthing already has a strong cultural offer for a town of its size, including the Pavilion Theatre and a growing independent arts and music scene. See what's happening in the town at our Worthing events guide.
Littlehampton's Bid
Littlehampton Town Council has formally announced its bid and is gathering community input to shape the town's submission. Residents can contribute via an online survey or through the Town Council's Facebook page. The council said feedback was being collected until 10 March 2026. If you are reading this later, check the Town Council's latest update for current ways to get involved.
The bid is expected to highlight Littlehampton's existing cultural offer, including Littlehampton Museum and the town's mix of independent venues, festivals, and creative organisations. Browse upcoming Littlehampton events to get a sense of what's on locally.
What Happens Next
Expressions of Interest close on 31 March 2026. Towns that pass the initial stage receive development funding to help build a full bid, before a final winner is selected.
Timeline:
- Expression of Interest submitted by 31 March 2026
- Shortlist announced in spring 2026
- Shortlisted towns receive development funding to develop full bids
- Winner announced later in 2026
- Cultural programme delivered in 2028
How does this compare to UK City of Culture?
UK City of Culture is a separate, longer-running competition for cities. Towns were not previously eligible. The new Town of Culture competition was created specifically to recognise smaller communities and towns.