At Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, we see the soul of this city every single day. We see it in the five centuries of human stories etched into our timber and stone. We see it in the lives shaped by the Solent, and in the enduring grit of a community that has always looked toward the horizon.
That is why we are incredibly proud to announce that Portsmouth has officially been named on the longlist for UK City of Culture 2029.
For us, this bid is about so much more than a title. It’s about recognising that Portsmouth is a city built on creativity, resilience, and a unique maritime identity that continues to evolve.
From the legendary Tudor stories of the Mary Rose to the modern-day innovators shaping our waterfront, culture here is alive. It’s in our dockworkers, our artists, our sailors, and our families.
Why the Dockyard is Backing Pompey 2029:
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A Shared Legacy: Our history is the city’s history. We are proud to serve as a cornerstone of a bid that celebrates where we’ve been and where we’re going.
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A Platform for Our People: This is an invitation for the world to see the talent and passion that defines Portsmouth today.
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A Catalyst for Change: Winning would bring unprecedented investment into our local arts, heritage, and tourism sectors, ensuring Portsmouth remains a vibrant cultural beacon for generations to come.
Five centuries of human stories. Lives shaped by the sea. Moments that still resonate now. We’re backing Portsmouth because we know what this city can do
Together, We Are Pompey 2029.
The journey has just begun. As we move into the next stage of the competition, the Historic Dockyard stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our city partners and our community. We aren’t just supporting a bid; we are celebrating the spirit of an island city that is ready to share its story with the world.
Join us in backing the bid. #WeArePompey2029 #Portsmouth2029 #CityOfCulture #HistoricDockyard #PCC #DCMS #PortsmouthCreates