Discover Newmarket is backing the  bid to secure UK Town of Culture status for Newmarket, marking an exciting opportunity to celebrate the town’s rich heritage, culture and history while inspiring new cultural projects for the future.

The proposed bid will be a collaborative effort, bringing together key local partners including Newmarket Charitable Foundation, Love Newmarket Business Improvement District (BID), and Newmarket Town Council  and other organisations from across the town. Working collectively, the partnership aims to showcase what makes Newmarket unique, while strengthening cultural participation, tourism and community pride.

The UK Town of Culture initiative recognises places with a strong cultural identity and ambitious plans to use culture as a catalyst for regeneration, creativity and community engagement. Newmarket’s long-standing national and international significance, alongside its vibrant local cultural scene, makes it well placed to put forward a compelling bid.

As part of the bid development process, residents, businesses, community groups and visitors are being invited to have their say. The partnership is seeking public feedback on why Newmarket should be chosen as the UK Town of Culture, and on the projects, events or initiatives people would like to see delivered as part of the programme. Ideas are welcome that celebrate Newmarket’s heritage, culture and history, as well as proposals that look to the future and reflect the town’s diversity, creativity and ambitions today.

Members of the public are encouraged to submit their ideas and comments by emailing townclerk@newmarket.gov.uk no later than Friday 20 February. Your input will help shape the vision and priorities of the bid, ensuring it truly represents the community’s views and aspirations.