7 reasons this underrated West Midlands town steeped in Anglo-Saxon history deserves to be UK Town of Culture

One such town that we believe deserves heaps more praises than it already does is the market town of Stafford.

This is an underrated town is located about 15 miles (24 km) away from Wolverhampton and offers a perfect respite from those wanting to escape Wolverhampton for a day-trip. 

One way that the town can perhaps raise its profile is by being in the running for the first-ever UK Town of Culture competition, which would highlight the area's distinctive identity and community spirit. 

Towns across the UK have until 31 March 2026 to submit their Expression of Interest UK Town of Culture 2028, with the shortlist of towns expected to be announced this Spring. 

Stafford Borough Council has stated that they are still in discussions on whether a bid will be made. 

A spokesperson for the Council told us, "We are still discussing whether a bid will be submitted". 

Read more: Why Dudley should be UK's first Town of Culture - the town's MP writes for the Express & Star 

We definitely think that there is definitely more to Stafford than what meets the eye. 

As part of the competition, Sir Phil Redmond will lead an expert panel, judging towns on the way they’ll tell their unique story, how they’ll bring everyone in a community together, and how towns will deliver on their vision. 

The strongest bids will progress to a shortlist, with each shortlisted town receiving £60,000 to help deliver their full bids for the competition.

Three finalists - one small, one medium, one large town - will be chosen. The winner will be crowned UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive a £3 million prize. The two runners-up will each receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their bid, from refreshed community infrastructure to electric music festivals.

Read more: Competition for Britain's first Town of Culture is launched - we look at the runners and riders in the West Midlands 

Here are 7 reasons why Stafford should be in the running for UK Town of Culture: 

1. Charming Stafford Castle

This is an 11-century fortress that was built in the town by Robert de Toeni, and became a fixture during the Norman era. 

Many visitors across the region, flock to the castle to enjoy panoramic views, that have dominated the skyline for more than 900 years. 

2. Beautiful Victoria Park

With perfectly manicured gardens, Victoria Park is a Green Flag award winning park. 

Here, the local café, a popular aviary, and a sensory garden provide vibrant spaces for family enjoyment and community engagement.

3. Unique Anglo-Saxon heritage 

In 2009, and metal detectorist Terry Herbert, 64, was out near Hammerwich, when he unexpectedly stumbled across an absolute fortune - the Staffordshire Hoard.  

The treasure was found on a farmland belonging to Fred Johnson, but about 1300 years ago, it was the close to the centre of Kingdom of Mercia (Anglo-Saxon). 

This hoard filled with treasures highlighting the county's unique Anglo-Saxon heritage. The collection included 1500 gold and silver pieces that historians have dated back to the 7th century (AD 650-675). 

4. Historic churches and architecture 

The town has two main churches, St. Chad's Church, a grade II* listed building which has been long been considered the oldest building in Stafford.

As well as St. Mary's Church which is a Grade I listed building. Both churches have a long history in the town and are perfect for a peruse around, to take in the town's iconic architectural structures.

5. Breath-taking nature

Cannock Chase is well-known for being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, an emphasises the town's great location, being just a 15 minute drive away from Cannock Chase. 

For those who love to meander through the outdoors, Cannock Chase is renowned across the region for its fascinating landscape. Especially, its woodlands and pine forests. The Chase offers top-tier walking trails - no matter the weather. 

6. Galleries and museums 

The entire town offers a rich cultural scene, many like to flock to the Shire Hall which is the largest venue in the county situated inside a fantastic Grade II listed former court house. 

Another, place where history-lovers can convene is the Staffordshire History Centre. This is a well-resourced heritage attraction and archive that first opened to the public not too long ago in November 2024. 

7. Whimsical cottage

This is a charming cottage located in Shallowford, that once belonged to the famous author Isaak Walton (1593-1683), he is best known for writing The Compleat Angler.

 The writer famously left the property to the people of Stafford after he passed away. 

Nowadays, the property functions as a museum and visitors can also enjoy the gorgeous knot garden located outside.