Town of Culture 2028
Town of Culture 2028 – Stage 1 Expression of Interest
Bishop Auckland Town Council is committed to openness and transparency in its decision making and use of public resources. Bishop Auckland Town Council’s formal expression of interest (EOI) to become the UK’s first Town of Culture in 2028, was submitted in March 2026 to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) as part of the UK Town of Culture 2028 Competition.
Town of Culture EOI Bishop Auckland – Redacted
This marked an important step in showcasing the town’s heritage, creativity, and the people who make our town special. This national programme celebrates places with strong identity, rich heritage and vibrant, diverse communities. Winning the title would bring significant cultural opportunities, investment and visibility to our town.
As one of County Durham’s largest parishes, Bishop Auckland has long been recognised for its rich history, diverse cultural offer, and strong, resilient communities. The bid will celebrate the town’s distinctive history and cultural strengths, while setting out a forward‑looking vision centred on creativity, inclusivity, and community pride. The bid will highlight the significant progress already being made locally, an ambitious vision for how arts, heritage, and community-led activity can continue to grow in the years ahead, leaving a lasting legacy. We believe culture can help drive long‑term change, improve wellbeing and open new opportunities for local people of all ages.
To develop the Expression of Interest, there were two forum meetings and a survey of
the community.
Read all about it here https://bishopauckland-tc.gov.uk/town-of-culture-2028-bid-people-of-bishop-auckland-we-need-you/
Although Bishop Auckland was not shortlisted for the next stage of the competition, the Council remains extremely proud of the submission and of the organisations, volunteers and residents who helped shape it. you can read our press release here https://bishopauckland-tc.gov.uk/bishop-auckland-proudly-reflects-on-town-of-culture-2028-bid/
As part of the process created a Bishop Auckland Postcard, were delighted to learn that the postcard we submitted will be put with the others, and the National Museum Liverpool has agreed to accession all postcards into their collection in recognition of the importance that this moment represents.
You can now view our entry alongside others from across the country on the Official UK Town of Culture Digital Map (Google Maps)
Greetings From Bishop Auckland Postcard – A collation of photographs from Auckland Castle Grounds, Bishop Auckland Christmas Town Ferris Wheel and the crowds, Faith Museum, Two young boys dressed up as Roman Soldiers with swords and square shields, Crowds at Bishop Auckland Food Festival, Scenic view of Auckland Castle, Stan Laurel Painted Mural and Scenes from the Kynren Night Show and Fireworks Display.
