Kendal aims to be the UK's first Town of Culture

Kendal has entered the government-run competition to be named the UK's first Town of Culture, which carries a £3 million award for a Year of Culture programme; a resident survey open until 26 February 2026 is gathering local input.

Kendal is bidding to be named the UK's first Town of Culture. The national competition is run by the government and offers funding for a Year of Culture programme. The winning town receives a £3 million award while two runner-up towns will each be given £275,000. Local organisers say the bid is an opportunity to build on Kendal's festivals, galleries and community events. Key details: - Kendal has entered a government-run competition to be named the UK's first Town of Culture. - The winning town will receive £3 million to fund a bespoke Year of Culture programme. - Two runner-up towns will each be awarded £275,000. - Local organisers have opened a resident survey to gather ideas on what makes Kendal special and what to include in the cultural celebrations. - The survey is estimated to take about five minutes, includes a £100 prize draw, and is open until midnight on Thursday 26 February 2026. Summary: A successful bid would support a year of locally curated cultural events and aim to highlight Kendal's cultural life and community identity. Undetermined at this time.