See · Do · Help

A historic moment for Sandown

Over the next few weeks, we have incredible opportunities for everyone to get involved and be part of this historic journey.

Incoming tide at Yaverland Beach near Sandown
The incoming tide at Yaverland
Sandown culture bid postcard campaign with Joe Robertson MP
Joe Robertson MP and the Secretary of State with our postcard

Tide Turners Kinship Gathering

Thursday 5th November, GRAFT Studios, 7-9pm .

An evening of Kinship and Sandown Celebration. Gathering people, ideas, art, thanks and momentum as the Tide Turners move towards the final stages of their bid for Town of Culture 2028.

7-9pm – Drinks, nibbles and conversations. Galleries open thoughout the building.

8pm – ‘Radio Free Sandown’ – Scratch performance ‘open source play’ written by and performed as part of The Sandown Scribe.

8.30pm – Speeches, comments and questions.

9ish – Carriages.

Do · Survey

Tide Turner Survey

A town with gurt big dreams

Our Town of Culture year is all about you, shining a light on our stories, our communities, and our town’s extraordinary potential. Winning the first UK Town of Culture would be a monumental achievement for a small town that knows how to dream big, but we need to hear from as many voices as possible. If you have a few moments to spare, please help shape our plans by filling out:

Are you a Tide Turner campaign activity in Sandown
Are you a Tide Turner?
See · Events

Save the Date:

Wednesday 21 October

The Arena, a spectacular big top from Ventnor Exchange, is coming to Sandham Gardens for an exciting two-week seafront residency, and we want you there. Join Sandown’s Tide Turners for a dedicated day of entertainment, community engagement, and hands-on workshops. This is your chance to make your voice heard, share your ideas, and help us shape Sandown’s final bid for UK Town of Culture 2028. More details coming soon.

Costumed performers outside the arena big top in Sandown

Tide Turner Events

10, 17 & 29 October 2026
Explore Sandown’s Town of Culture Pavilions through Joomchi collage and help create a shared artwork. Free workshops at GRAFT Studios, with all materials included.
Thursday 15 October 2026
Take some time for yourself and explore free-writing techniques in a relaxed workshop at GRAFT Studios. There’s no need to read your writing aloud.
Wednesday 21 October 2026
Share your hopes and dreams for Sandown through words and illustrations on the Swishing Line. Free family-friendly activities at Trouville Hotel.
Monday 26 October 2026
A free theatre and storytelling workshop at GRAFT Studios for adults with experience of homelessness, HMO living or displacement. Explore stories, creativity and belonging.
Help · Join in

Are you a Tide Turner?

Would you like to become a Tide Turner Volunteer? Help us turn the tide for Sandown by registering your interest today.

Welcome to Sandown sign

Business Support & Sponsorship

Could you sponsor Sandown’s Town of Culture 2028? Right now, we are looking for financial support pledges, whether financial, services, or donations. Let us know how you can help build the momentum.

Local business support for the Tide Turners campaign
Secret Link