NEWQUAY is commiserating after failing to progress in its bid to be named a UK Town of Culture.

Newquay Town Council and Newquay BID put forward the application to government to highlight the town’s growing cultural offer and year‑round community activity.

They focused on its world-famous surf and coastline, its festivals, markets, food scene and growing creative community.

But Newquay was not among the 15 towns the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has chosen as contenders. Other Cornish towns to miss out include Penzance, Helston, Falmouth, Redruth and Marazion.

The overall grand winner will be crowned the UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive a £3 million grant to host a year-long schedule of culture and arts events. The two runners-up will each secure £250,000 to fund parts of their proposed local cultural program.

A spokesperson for Newquay Town Council said: “Along with Newquay BID we have congratulated all towns shortlisted for the UK Town of Culture 2028 title and wished them every success as they progress through the next stage of the competition.

“While naturally disappointed that Newquay was not selected for the shortlist, partners involved in the bid say the process has already demonstrated the strength of the town's cultural offer and the passion of the individuals, organisations and community groups that help make Newquay such a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

“The bid brought together a wide range of partners from across the town, creating new relationships and strengthening existing ones around a shared ambition to celebrate Newquay's unique identity, creativity and community spirit.”

Mark Warren, manager of Newquay BID, added: "Whilst we are disappointed not to have been shortlisted, we would like to congratulate all of the towns that have progressed and wish them the very best of luck.

“We have a fabulous town and are incredibly grateful to the many Newquay Ambassadors who supported us throughout this process. It has shown just how much our town has achieved.

“We have amazing events throughout the year, delivered through the strong partnership between Newquay Town Council and Newquay BID, and we have exciting plans for the years ahead. We are very proud of everything Newquay has to offer."

Partners behind the bid stress that this is not the end of the journey but the beginning of a renewed focus on celebrating and developing Newquay's cultural offer. The town already has a packed programme of events taking place throughout the year, showcasing everything from sport and music to arts, food, heritage and community activities.

A town council spokesperson added: “This weekend alone sees two major events taking place in Newquay. The Skateboard GB Championships will bring some of the country's top skateboarding talent to the town, while the Newquay Food Festival will celebrate Cornwall's outstanding food, drink and hospitality sector. Together, they demonstrate the breadth, quality and diversity of Newquay's cultural offer and its ability to attract residents and visitors alike.

“From festivals and live events to markets, creative projects and community celebrations, Newquay continues to build a year-round programme that reflects the town's unique coastal identity and growing permanent population.

“Newquay Town Council and Newquay BID would like to thank everyone who supported the Town of Culture bid and contributed ideas throughout the process. The partnerships and momentum created will continue to support future projects and help strengthen Newquay's position as one of the UK's most vibrant and distinctive coastal towns.”