Midlothian town bidding to become first UK Town of Culture and win £3million prize'Our vision is to develop a bid that is shaped by local people'Residents in Penicuik are bidding to make it the UK's first Town of Culture (Image: Creative Commons)A group of residents in a Midlothian town are making a bid for it to be recognised as the UK’s first Town of Culture and win £3million to celebrate. ‌People from across community groups in Penicuik have come together to prepare to put the town forward for the prestigious title after the competition to win it was announced by the UK Government. ‌And they are appealing to locals who want to get involved to come forward with their ideas, suggestions and support to help them create a winning bid. ‌“This first stage asks towns to set out a compelling vision, demonstrate community support and show they have the ambition and capacity to deliver a transformative cultural programme. There are plans to launch a survey of local groups and social media with the deadline to submit an Expression of Interest March 31.

Source: Daily Mirror February 27, 2026 10:27 UTC