‹ Back to Overview
Culture and creativity
Southampton’s cultural life and creative employment. Its shortlisted City of Culture bid was for the 2025 title; Bradford was selected.
At a glance
Figures refer to their stated period.
Shortlisted
UK City of Culture 2025 bid
Southampton was a finalist; Bradford won. This is a historical bid, not a current award.
Solent University · 2022 decision for 2025
Checked 3 October 20262,500
Arts, entertainment and recreation jobs
BRES workplace estimate; rounded, excludes self-employed workers.
ONS / Nomis · 2024
Checked 3 October 2026Put the figures in context
Culture in the city
A shortlisted bid, a continuing cultural life
The City of Culture result is historical. Use the council’s culture pages for current museums, galleries, libraries and events.
Open the council’s service directoryThe evidence
Compare definitions as well as values.
| Measure | Southampton / area | Period | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK City of Culture 2025 bid | Shortlisted bid outcome · Southampton | 2022 decision for 2025 | Solent University |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation jobs | 2,500 employee jobs · Southampton | 2024 | ONS / Nomis |