The TV Festival will leave Edinburgh for Manchester in 2027, ending a 50-year run in Scotland’s capital as organisers aim to cut costs and widen access across the television industry.
The TV Foundation has run the event since 1976 and announced the move after a consultation and competitive bidding process that it launched last year.
Organisers said Greater Manchester offered a long-term vision that matched creative ambition with greater affordability and better access for delegates.
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They said the move will allow the festival to cut attendance costs significantly and lower the price of delegate passes.
Edinburgh will host the festival for the final time from 25 to 28 August before the event heads north-west.
The annual gathering ranks among the television industry’s major forums for discussion and brings together broadcasters, producers, actors and executives for keynote sessions, debates and masterclasses.
Recent editions have featured major names from television and entertainment, including presenter Graham Norton, actor Michael Sheen and American writer, producer and comedian Tina Fey.
Organisers plan to stage the 2027 edition in St John’s, Manchester’s emerging creative district, although they have not yet confirmed the dates.
Campbell Glennie, chief executive of The TV Festival and The TV Foundation, said Manchester offers the strongest platform to expand the festival’s reach while preserving the connectivity and cultural identity that an event of national significance needs.
Festival organisers also paid tribute to Edinburgh and said the city’s cultural influence remains deeply tied to the event’s identity and history.
Edinburgh Council leader Jane Meagher said she was disappointed by the decision but added that the city remains committed to supporting creativity, screen industries and future cultural events.
The move marks a major shift for one of the UK television industry’s longest-running and most recognisable annual events
