Guardian Readers Champion Hometowns for UK's First Town of Culture Award
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has initiated a search for the UK's inaugural "Town of Culture," mirroring the successful City of Culture programme that recently honoured Bradford. Following nominations from Guardian writers, readers have passionately put forward their favourite towns, showcasing a diverse tapestry of cultural richness across the nation.
Hastings: Where Culture Springs from the Shingle
In Hastings, East Sussex, culture is deeply embedded in daily life, emerging from the rugged coastline and the dynamic interplay between history and modernity. The town boasts a working fishing fleet on the beach, juxtaposed with bold contemporary art spaces that resonate beyond local boundaries. Community-driven events like the Jack in the Green parade and Pirate Day foster shared joy, while youth culture thrives unapologetically through skateboarding, music, and artistic scenes. Nominating Hastings would acknowledge a place where investment could amplify an already authentic and vibrant cultural fabric.
Glastonbury: A Hub of Esoteric Celebrations
Glastonbury, Somerset, offers a calendar brimming with unique events, from Beltane revelries to dragon battles and the Goddess Conference. The town crier highlights independent businesses lining the high street, from esoteric bookshops to local breweries, with hardly a chain in sight. Climbing the Tor provides breathtaking views across the Somerset Levels, cementing its status as one of the country's most stunning sights. The community is noted for its resilience and mutual support, making it a standout contender.
Kirkcudbright: The Artists' Haven by the River Dee
Known as the artists' town, Kirkcudbright in Dumfries and Galloway features numerous galleries, including a national-level collection, and the historic home of painter EA Hornel. Pastel-painted houses and hidden gardens create a picturesque setting, while summer fairs and delicious harbour-side fish and chips add to its charm. The town's serene atmosphere invites visitors to breathe easy and immerse themselves in creative inspiration.
North Shields: Blending Heritage with Innovation
North Shields, a historic port in Tyne and Wear, celebrates its 800-year legacy of fishing and shipbuilding while embracing contemporary culture. Music festivals like A Stones Throw and CoastFest, alongside venues in repurposed industrial spaces, highlight its vibrant scene. The Exchange 1856 theatre and art collectives like Helix Arts anchor a thriving cultural quarter, with the Fish Quay serving as a dramatic backdrop for performances. Recognition as a Town of Culture would further boost its creative economy.
Ipswich: A Catalyst for Regional Regeneration
As England's oldest continuously inhabited town, Ipswich, Suffolk, presents a compelling case with its population of 140,000 and rich cultural landmarks, including historical waterfronts and theatres. Supported by Ipswich Town football club and linked to Ed Sheeran, the town's bid for 2029 City of Culture underscores its potential. Awarding it Town of Culture status could provide crucial funding to enhance community events and spur economic benefits across East Anglia.
Scarborough: A Seaside Gem with a Warm Heart
Scarborough, North Yorkshire, bursts with art galleries, theatres, and festivals, complemented by independent shops and local produce in its market hall. Live music ranges from street buskers to international acts at the Open Air theatre, while natural beauty abounds in forests, cliffs, and beaches. Regular dolphin sightings along the coast add to its allure, reflecting a community proud of its slightly worn but deeply cherished seaside character.
Devizes: A Tapestry of History and Creativity
Devizes, Wiltshire, offers a beautiful townscape featuring the Crammer pond, restored Caen Hill locks, and an art deco cinema. Home to the Thomas Lawrence Art Society and a location for the film Far from the Madding Crowd, it hosts events like the Fulltone music festival and boasts independent shops. Surrounded by historical landscapes, including bronze age barrows and civil war sites, Devizes embodies a vibrant blend of past and present.
Caernarfon: A Welsh Beacon of Arts and Heritage
Caernarfon, Gwynedd, is a world heritage site with a high percentage of Welsh speakers, renowned as one of Britain's happiest towns. It features a large free food festival, a thriving music scene, and the Gŵyl Arall arts festival. Despite its medieval castle being viewed locally as a symbol of oppression, it attracts thousands of visitors, with Snowdonia providing a spectacular backdrop that makes it a cultural gem in Wales.
Faversham: Celebrating Brewing and Literary Traditions
Faversham, Kent, showcases a vibrant creative scene led by community initiatives, including the internationally acclaimed Faversham Literary Festival and an annual hop festival celebrating its brewing heritage. The creek serves as a focal point for activities, supported by creative hubs like Creek Creative studios and the Arden theatre. This town's lively history and collaborative spirit make it a wonderful place to live and a strong candidate for the award.
These nominations highlight the UK's diverse cultural landscapes, from coastal towns to historic hubs, each offering unique contributions to the nation's artistic and community life. The Town of Culture award promises to shine a spotlight on these hidden gems, fostering greater appreciation and investment in local creativity.
