Portsmouth has been longlisted for the UK City of Culture 2029, alongside eight other cities.
The University of Portsmouth's Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries is a key partner in the bid, contributing expertise, research, and creative talent to strengthen the city's cultural offer.
Professor Christine White , Executive Dean of the Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries , said: "This is a fantastic moment for Portsmouth. Our city has a rich and distinctive cultural identity, and this bid is a powerful opportunity to celebrate that while shaping an ambitious future for all our citizens. We're proud to play a key role in supporting Portsmouth's vision and showcasing the creativity, talent and innovation that define the city."
Portsmouth will compete against Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Sheffield, Swindon and Wrexham.
Victorious Festival. Image credit: Steven Stringer
The bid is being led by arts organisation Portsmouth Creates and reflects the council's long-term vision for Portsmouth to be a city rich in culture and creativity by 2040, where collaboration, community and innovation thrive.
Winning the City of Culture title would create a legacy that places Portsmouth firmly on the national and international map as a leading waterfront city, drives sustainable economic growth, attracts investment and boosts tourism, creates new businesses and high-quality jobs, raises aspirations and develops skills, strengthens civic pride and community cohesion, and puts cultural regeneration at the heart of Portsmouth's long-term ambitions.
Gemma Nichols, CEO of Portsmouth Creates , said: "Reaching the longlist is a significant moment for Portsmouth and for everyone who has helped shape this bid so far.
"But this bid is not just about winning a title - it is about unlocking potential for the city's residents, while showcasing a side of Portsmouth that goes far beyond its traditional maritime identity."
This is a fantastic moment for Portsmouth. Our city has a rich and distinctive cultural identity, and this bid is a powerful opportunity to celebrate that while shaping an ambitious future for all our citizens.
Professor Christine White, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries
The UK City of Culture title is awarded every four years by the UK Government. Previous winners include Derry-Londonderry (2013), Hull (2017), Coventry (2021) and Bradford (2025). Hull's year as City of Culture attracted more than six million visitors and generated around £300 million for the local economy.
The announcement comes during Portsmouth100, a year-long celebration in 2026 marking a century since Portsmouth achieved city status. Portsmouth100 brings together communities, organisations and businesses in a programme of events that honour the city's proud heritage and culture while looking ahead to a future of opportunity.
