FERNDOWN and Wimborne have been shortlisted to be the 2026 Town of Culture.

The winning town will be chosen by a panel of industry experts and it will receive £30,000 from Dorset Council to enable a year’s worth of cultural activity to take place.

Swanage and Sherborne are also in the running for the award.

The award was established by Arts Development Company, who are responsible for Dorset’s cultural strategy, and is open to any town, village, or hamlet in Dorset.

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David Lockwood, CEO of Arts Development Company, said: “We’ve been bowled over by the initial submissions for Town of Culture 2026.

“These four towns, each distinct, show clearly the opportunities for using culture and creativity to enhance their towns for their residents.

“Now the four towns have a chance to develop their plans in more detail, and we’ll work with our panel to make the difficult decision as to which of them will be Dorset Town of Culture for 2026.”

Councillor Ryan Hope, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for customer, culture and community engagement, said: “The four shortlisted towns for the 2026 Town of Culture all bring something different to the table.

“I’m delighted they have been recognised for their individual culture offers.

“Dorset is home to some outstanding cultural venues and events, and I am excited to see how the judging unfolds so we can celebrate arts and events which make up the fabric of our wonderful county.”

Portland and Weymouth are joint winners of the 2025 Towns of Culture and an Arts Development Company spokesperson said both towns will deliver a programmer of “extraordinary” community events and activities next year.

For more information about the award, visit the Arts Development Company website.