Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture Year Draws to a Close

Over three million attend events across the district

Bradford’s year as the UK City of Culture 2025 has concluded with a closing event featuring hundreds of local participants. The year-long programme has highlighted Bradford’s cultural heritage and contemporary arts scene, attracting an audience estimated at over three million people.

Programme Highlights

Throughout 2025, Bradford hosted a wide range of cultural activities across various art forms, including:

• A 36-hour sound journey featuring local musicians, led by Jeremy Deller, Charles Hazlewood and the Paraorchestra
• The Turner Prize exhibition at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, one of the UK’s most prestigious art awards
• Drone-created artwork by Bradford-born artist David Hockney
• The 5-star theatre production of The Railway Children
• Culinary events such as a community cookbook and a curry festival
• Film screenings at Ilkley Lido and Thornton Viaduct
• Celebrations of British brass band music
• The pop-up venue Loading Bay hosting comedy, exhibitions, spoken word, theatre, and an immersive experience on British Asian youth culture
• The touring venue The Beacon, which visited four district parks with programmes created by Bradford residents

Participation and Impact

• More than 5,000 events took place across all 30 wards of Bradford district
• Over 650 local artists and organisations were commissioned or involved
• Approximately 87,000 people participated in projects such as performances, workshops, and community activities
• More than 5,500 individuals benefited from training, mentoring, and paid work placements
• Over 160 schools and educational settings engaged in specially created projects and trips
• 2,700 volunteers acted as ambassadors for the programme

Economic and Social Outcomes

• Tourism increased, with a significant rise in overnight stays and a 29% increase in journeys between Bradford District and London/Southeast on LNER services
• City centre footfall rose by over 25% compared to previous years
• More than 30 cultural organisations received capital investment for building improvements
• Over 110 grassroots groups were awarded grants for creative activities
• More than 80% of surveyed residents reported a positive impact on wellbeing
• Eight in ten residents felt increased pride in their local area
• Over 70% of residents said the programme helped them feel more connected to their community
• More than 65% of suppliers involved were based in Yorkshire

Cultural Infrastructure and Legacy

• Investments included visitor facilities at the Brontë Parsonage Museum and improved accessibility at Ilkley Playhouse
• The Peace Museum relocated to a new premises, increasing annual visitors from 3,000 to over 50,000
• Bradford 2025 supported young people through apprenticeships and a Youth Board
• Partnerships were formed with national institutions including the British Council, British Museum, Royal Ballet, BBC, Channel 4, and Tate
• International connections were established with creatives and organisations in over 30 countries

Official Statements

Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025, highlighted the role of local residents in the year’s success and the foundations laid for future cultural and economic growth.

Daniel Bates, Executive Director, noted the programme’s role in showcasing Bradford’s cultural vibrancy to a national and international audience.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the boost to community pride, investment in young talent, and support for the visitor economy.

Bradford Council Leader Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe described the year as surpassing expectations and emphasised plans to build on the achievements for lasting growth.

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin stated the year had exceeded targets and would leave a legacy of opportunity and investment.

Arts Council England Chief Executive Darren Henley called the year a “big, bold and brilliant success” that positively impacted lives in Bradford.

Future Outlook

Bradford Culture Company, the charity delivering the programme, will continue to work with Bradford Council and partners beyond 2025 to sustain cultural development and economic benefits in the district.

For more information, visit the official Bradford 2025 press release.