We are not just estate agents. We are people who live and love the area we work in. Because of that, we are incredibly proud of the towns we serve. And now, not one but two of those towns are bidding for UK Town of Culture 2028.
Both Hastings and Bexhill are preparing bids for this brand new national competition, led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
This is a big moment for our area.
What is UK Town of Culture?
UK Town of Culture is a new government competition aimed at celebrating the important role towns play in our national story.
It draws inspiration from the success of UK City of Culture, but this time the focus is on towns of all sizes. There will be winners in the small, medium, and large town categories, with one overall UK Town of Culture 2028 selected.
The overall winner will receive £3 million to deliver a six-month cultural program in 2028. The other two category finalists will each get £250,000 to help carry out key parts of their bid.
Why Hastings?
Hastings has always had a strong identity, blending a historic past with a creative modern vibe.
Much of the town’s culture is centred around the Old Town. Events like Jack in the Green, Pirate Day and the Old Town Carnival bring huge crowds every year. And of course, the Bonfire celebrations in October are some of the biggest anywhere in the country, filling the streets with fire and noise.
But it is not just about big events. The independent shops, the galleries, the live music scene, the artists, the makers and the small businesses all contribute to Hastings’ unique personality. There is a real sense that this is a town that backs creativity and is not afraid to do things its own way.
Why Bexhill?
Bexhill has a slightly different feel, but it is just as special.
There is a strong sense of community here. From the seafront and the beach to the parks and local halls, people get involved. Although the De La Warr Pavilion is an iconic part of the town and draws visitors from far and wide, it is not the only part of Bexhill that supports arts and events. It is also about schools, clubs, sports groups, volunteers and everyday community life. Bexhill is rich in history too, being the birthplace of British motor racing.
Events like the Bexhill Carnival and the popular Bexhill 100 Classic & Custom Car Show showcase just how much pride residents take in the town. These events bring generations together and draw visitors year after year.
We were especially proud when John from our Bexhill office was asked to provide a photograph he recently took of the town to support the bid. It is a small contribution, but it shows how local people and businesses are being invited to help tell Bexhill’s story.
That is what this is really about. Sometimes taking part really is the most important thing.
We could not choose between them
People may ask which town we would like to see win. The honest answer is that we could not choose!
Both towns have unique characters. Both host incredible events throughout the year. Both have passionate, creative communities. And both deserve recognition for their roles in our national story.
What matters most is that our local area is being acknowledged and given the opportunity to shine on a national stage.
Have your say
Both bids are asking residents to get involved.
If you would like to share ideas for Bexhill, you can do so here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6B9H87D
If you are in Hastings and would like to contribute, you can share your ideas here:
https://www.menti.com/alet2g21tr92
At Rush, Witt & Wilson, we are proud to support both bids. We believe in the towns we serve, not just as places to buy and sell homes, but as communities full of character and creativity.
Whatever the outcome, we are proud to call them home.
