Ilfracombe has received exciting national recognition after being shortlisted for the prestigious UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, becoming one of just 15 towns across the UK to progress to the next stage from almost 400 applications.

Even more impressively, Ilfracombe is the only town in the South West of England to make the shortlist, placing North Devon firmly in the national spotlight.

The announcement marks a significant milestone for the historic seaside town and brings with it £60,000 in development funding to prepare a final bid. The overall winner will receive £3 million to deliver a transformational cultural programme, while two runners-up will each receive £250,000.

A Major Achievement for North Devon

The bid has been led by One Ilfracombe, working alongside Ilfracombe Town Council, with the vision developed through the One Ilfracombe Culture Club - a growing network of more than 100 artists, performers, venues, museums, councils and community organisations.

Project Officer and Culture Club Co-Chair Charmain Lovett, a lifelong Ilfracombe resident, described the news as an extraordinary moment for the town.

"We are absolutely flabbergasted! I've been telling everyone to manage their expectations as even getting shortlisted would be a monumental achievement, so we are both utterly delighted and shocked."

She added that competing against nearly 400 entries made the achievement even more remarkable.

"We knew how tough it was with nearly 400 entries, so to find out little old Ilfracombe has been shortlisted is absolutely incredible."

Vince Flower, Chair of Visit Devon and Chair of Devon & Partners LVEP, said:

"This is fantastic news for Ilfracombe, North Devon and the whole of the county. To be shortlisted from almost 400 applications is an exceptional achievement and a powerful endorsement of the town's rich heritage, thriving cultural community and remarkable community spirit.

Ilfracombe has long been one of Devon's most distinctive destinations, combining an outstanding natural setting with a vibrant arts and cultural scene that continues to evolve. This recognition demonstrates the strength of local partnerships and the dedication of the many volunteers, organisations and community leaders who have worked tirelessly to showcase everything that makes the town so special.

On behalf of Visit Devon and Devon & Partners LVEP, I would like to congratulate One Ilfracombe, Ilfracombe Town Council and everyone involved in the bid. We look forward to supporting the next stage of the process and wish them every success in securing the title of UK Town of Culture 2028.”

Celebrating Ilfracombe's Rich Heritage and Creative Future

Ilfracombe's application highlights the town's unique blend of historic heritage, community resilience and contemporary creativity.

From its medieval working harbour, whose history stretches back to the 13th century, to the internationally recognised Damien Hirst sculpture Verity, which has stood proudly at the harbour entrance since 2012, the town offers a fascinating contrast between past and present.

The iconic 66-foot sculpture has become one of North Devon's most recognisable landmarks, symbolising the town's willingness to embrace both tradition and modern artistic expression.

Charmain Lovett explained that this balance of history and innovation helped strengthen Ilfracombe's submission.

"Our application was very much based around the incredible amount of cultural activity led by volunteers, coupled with the huge amount of history that we have here in Ilfracombe. I think that DCMS probably liked the contrast of medieval history versus the contemporary of Damien Hirst's Verity, and also how resilient we are as a community."

A Town Powered by Community Spirit

One of the strongest themes running throughout Ilfracombe's bid is the strength of its local community. Rather than relying solely on major institutions, much of the town's cultural life has been built by dedicated volunteers, local organisations and passionate residents who continue to create festivals, exhibitions, performances and events throughout the year.

Lovett noted that North Devon communities often receive less national attention than larger cities.

"We've got amazing history and a brilliant story to tell in terms of our community and our resilience; we're a town that has had to do everything for itself."

This community-first approach perfectly reflects the aims of the UK Town of Culture programme, which celebrates places that demonstrate original storytelling, local pride and inclusive cultural participation.

Government Backs Ilfracombe's Cultural Vision

The shortlist has attracted praise from the highest levels of government.

The Secretary of State described the town as being perfectly placed to showcase the South West's creative energy.

"The South West has always had this incredible creative energy — it's what draws people there and what makes them want to stay. Ilfracombe sits in one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and I really believe this bid will rocket boost its culture on the national map."

The Government says the Town of Culture programme aims to increase local investment, strengthen civic pride and make arts and culture more accessible while helping towns tell their own unique stories.

What Happens Next?

Following the successful shortlist announcement, One Ilfracombe and Ilfracombe Town Council will now begin preparing their detailed final submission. As part of the next stage, the judging panel, led by Sir Phil Redmond, will visit Ilfracombe to experience first-hand the town's heritage, creative industries and community spirit before selecting the overall winner.

The successful Town of Culture 2028 will be announced in early 2027.