Milton Keynes Longlisted for City of Culture 2029 🎉

Milton Keynes has taken a big step towards becoming UK City of Culture 2029, securing its place on the longlist and £60,000 of funding to develop the next stage of its bid.

This marks the start of an exciting new chapter, with the city now having around four months to shape a bold vision for what a City of Culture year could look like. And it won’t be done alone – residents, communities and local organisations will all be invited to play a part in bringing the plans to life.

If successful, 2029 could be a landmark year for Milton Keynes. Alongside a packed cultural programme, it would also coincide with the opening of a brand-new 4,000-capacity venue in the city centre, adding to an already thriving cultural scene.

From world-class attractions like Bletchley Park and MK Gallery to major events such as IF: Milton Keynes International Festival, the city already draws visitors from across the UK – and beyond. Now, this bid is about building on that energy, celebrating Milton Keynes’ unique design story, and creating new opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in culture.

"Being longlisted is an important moment for Milton Keynes, and we’re excited to put our case forward for why we should be made City of Culture. Despite the preconceived notions of some, Milton Keynes is a city full of rich, diverse and vibrant culture. This is an opportunity for us to come together as a city and make our case, and share in the transformative results if we’re successful."

- Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, Cllr Shanika Mahendran

Early ideas include creative opportunities for young people, support for emerging talent, and “Culture Kids MK” – a scheme offering every baby born in 2029 five years of free access to cultural experiences.

An independent panel will now review submissions from across the UK, with a shortlist expected before the final winner is announced in 2026.