Boston launches bid to become Town of Culture

Boston has thrown its hat into the ring to become the UK's first Town of Culture.

On Friday, Boston Borough Council announced it would submit an expression of interest in the competition.

The authority said its bid would draw on the Lincolnshire town's "extraordinary 1,000-year story" and highlight its cultural diversity.

Council leader Dale Broughton said: "Boston has an extraordinary story and this bid is an opportunity to tell it to all those who haven't heard about our wonderful town."

The competition is aimed at small and medium-sized towns. The winner will be awarded £3m to help it deliver a cultural programme during the summer of 2028.

The deadline for expressions of interest is 31 March, with the shortlisted towns due to be announced at a later date. The winner will be announced in 2027.

In its bid, the council said it would highlight Boston's role as a major medieval trading hub and the second most important port in England.

If Boston wins, the authority said the money would go towards a summer programme of events, exhibitions and community‑led creative projects.

It said the funding would also help build momentum for Boston's 400th anniversary of the founding of Boston, Massachusetts, in 2030.

In 1630, a fleet of 11 ships arrived in America, led by the Arbella, the Earl of Lincoln's sister Lady Arabella, according to Visit Lincolnshire.

The settlement, first called Trimountaine, was renamed Boston after the Lincolnshire town where the boats came from.

Councillor Sarah Sharpe said: "Culture plays such a vital role in how people experience their town and this programme would really bring Boston's fantastic stories to life and support our range of diverse communities.

"By working with local partners and young people, we can create a cultural legacy that we can all be proud of, one that lasts well beyond 2028."

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