25/03/2026: Thetford launches bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028
Breckland's largest market town will by vying to take its place on the national stage after it was announced it will be put forward to potentially become UK Town of Culture 2028.
The bid to see Thetford selected by Central Government has been jointly developed by Breckland Council, Thetford Town Council and Norfolk & Norwich Festival.
It represents a strong, locally-driven vision for the town's future and will build on the success of the £20m Pride in Place programme.
Thetford's submission highlights the town's unique identity, which combines more than 2,000 years of history with a vibrant, diverse and growing population. From its origins as the ancient capital of East Anglia to its connections with influential figures such as Thomas Paine and Maharajah Duleep Singh, the bid celebrates the heritage, creativity and ambition that define the town today.
If successful, Thetford could secure up to £3 million in Government funding to deliver an ambitious cultural programme throughout 2028.
The bid proposes a year-long programme of high-quality, inclusive events and activities across the town and surrounding area, creating opportunities for young people, families, artists and community groups. The programme would also support skills development, increase participation in the arts and contribute to improved wellbeing.
In addition to the cultural benefits, the Town of Culture status would significantly raise Thetford's national profile, showcasing it as a dynamic and forward-looking place to live, work and visit. This could help lever in additional investment, attract visitors and encourage business growth in the area.
Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, Breckland Council's Leader, commented: "Thetford is one of Norfolk's great historic towns, with a proud past and a bright future. This bid is about building on the progress already being made, celebrating what makes the town special and opening the door to new opportunities for local people. It is a chance to bring Thetford to a wider audience, attract investment and show the country a town with real pride, character and ambition."
Cllr Carla Barreto, Mayor of Thetford, said: "Among Thetford's many great strengths are the diversity and vibrancy of its communities, which makes for a wonderful culture in the town. This bid presents a fantastic opportunity to showcase Thetford's character on the national stage."
Daniel Brine, Chief Executive of Norfolk and Norwich Festival, said: "This is a great opportunity to raise the profile of Thetford and the whole county, while securing major investment for local creative engagement and events."
Jo Pearson, Chair of the For Thetford Board, added: "I am delighted to support this bid. Thetford is already a fantastic town and is getting better all the time thanks to our ongoing programme of investment and regeneration. This submission could help raise the town's profile with people right across the country, potentially attracting more businesses and visitors, which would be great news for our communities."
Terry Jermy, MP for South West Norfolk, commented: "I am fully behind Thetford's bid to become a Town of Culture. As someone who has lived in the town my whole life, I know firsthand what rich history we have and our tremendous environmental assets, including the river. On top of this, we have a fantastic sense of community spirit. It's clear we have all the ingredients to thrive, and obtaining formal recognition through the Town of Culture award will help us to further unlock Thetford's potential."
