Supporting our city’s bid to become the UK City of Culture in 2029

Working closely with partners across the city, Portsmouth Creates is leading the development of a bid rooted in collaboration, community voice, and creative ambition. This is a bid by Portsmouth, for Portsmouth – one that reflects the city’s heritage, energy and future potential.

Catalyst for change

The bid aligns with a long-term vision for Portsmouth to be a city where culture and creativity are central to everyday life, driving regeneration, improving wellbeing and creating opportunity for all. Culture will sit at the heart of the city’s future, not as an add-on, but as a catalyst for lasting social and economic change.

The Queens Hotel is part of the steering committee for the bid and has chaired a hospitality group to find out from other hotels and food producers what they think sets Portsmouth apart from other cities.

The UK City of Culture title is awarded every four years by the UK Government to a city that demonstrates ambition, creativity, and community engagement in culture.

Year long cultural programme

The winning city delivers a year-long cultural programme to boost the economy, attract tourism, and create an inclusive legacy of pride and investment.

Previous winners include:
• 2013: Derry-Londonderry
• 2017: Hull
• 2021: Coventry
• 2025: Bradford

Example of Impact:  Hull 2017
• Over 6 million visitors and hotel occupancy up by 10.5%
• £300M tourism value generated
• £11–17M GVA contributed to the local economy
• Nearly 800 new jobs in the cultural and visitor economy
• 9 in 10 residents engaged with cultural activity

11th February 2026