Milton Keynes: Why these four people think it’s UK City of Culture

Milton Keynes has often been overlooked as a destination, frequently dismissed by those who have no intention of visiting. However, opinions are shifting as the city gains recognition, particularly with its recent shortlisting for the UK City of Culture 2029. Once stereotyped primarily for its concrete cows and numerous roundabouts, Milton Keynes is now being celebrated for its vibrant cultural landscape and community spirit. The city was also highlighted in 2025 as one of the best places to live and work in the UK, underscoring its growing appeal.

A local creative, Maureen Onwunali, who was born in Ireland and raised in Milton Keynes, found a new appreciation for the city while writing a poem to support its culture bid. She described her research process as “surprisingly so fascinating,” and now enjoys sharing facts about Milton Keynes at social gatherings. Her poem, “An ode to Milton Keynes,” references significant achievements such as the “colossus, the world’s first programmable computer” and innovation symbolized by “self-driving cars on Roman roads.” Despite the city’s reputation for lacking soul, Onwunali emphasizes that many talented artists come from Milton Keynes, many of whom eventually move to larger cities but could flourish locally with more opportunities.

Cultural venues and events already thriving in Milton Keynes include the Milton Keynes Gallery and the Stables theatre, founded by jazz legends Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine. The city hosts various festivals such as Reggae Land, the Milton Keynes International Festival, and annual community celebrations like the Zimbabwe Heritage Festival and MK Pride. Anthony Spira, director of the MK Gallery, highlighted how surprising it is to some that Milton Keynes has made the shortlist. He explained, “People who live here absolutely love it. But externally, people are saying, ‘Milton Keynes, is there culture there?’ Well, yes, there is, there’s a lot and there’s going to be a lot more.” Spira remains optimistic about the city’s potential, noting its unique story despite being established only 59 years ago.

Behind the scenes, local leadership has played a crucial role in securing the city’s place in the competition. Lauren

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