Be amazed at the Tate Modern
Open yourself to the exciting new world of British and international art. The Tate is home to one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the world.
Highlights
- Watch live art in massive underground converted oil tanks.
- Look out over London from the Tate balcony while sipping a drink.
- View priceless art such as Picasso, Monet, and Salvador Dali for free.
Tickets & Prices
Dive into the essence of modern art with a semi-private guided tour at Tate Modern. Experience the works of iconic artists from Mondrian to Warhol in an intimate group setting, ensuring personalized attention and enriching discussions.
- Semi-Private Guided Tour – Explore major art movements with an expert guide. Small group sizes offer a closer look at modern and contemporary masterpieces.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Food & beverages not included. Visit the museum’s cafes for refreshments.
- Gratuity is optional but appreciated.
- Comfortable shoes recommended; the tour involves some walking.
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas; please check with your guide.
- Accessibility: Inform the tour operator of any special needs in advance.
- Ensure timely arrival to fully enjoy your guided experience.
What to see and do
These are just some of the reasons you must visit Tate Modern:
Interactive Art
Traditionally, art has been a singular sensory experience. Tate Modern has turned these ideas on their head. Exciting exhibits involve you, the viewer, and bring all your senses to life. Immerse yourself in light displays, film, walk through sculpture or play with colour.
Gone is the stereotypical art gallery of the past. Now you will find your visit an electrifying experience for your senses.
Children’s Activities
Immerse your youngster into the creative and inspiring world of art. Tate Modern demonstrates art is about more than simply staring at pictures, it should involve all senses. Children and adults alike are encouraged to delve into activities, experiencing art. Make a day of it.
Free Entry
Yes, you read right, Tate Modern is free to enter. The permanent collection is impressive, however, you should check the website before you visit as most likely there will be a must-see feature exhibition.
Special exhibitions and events will require a separate paid ticket and it’s always recommended to book in advance online, especially for popular exhibits. Tate members can access all exhibits for free with a membership card.
Artistic Variety
Witness art from the full spectrum of artistic mediums. From painting, sculpture, drawing, and prints to photography, film, video, installations, and performance, Tate Modern has it all. Art ranging from 1500 to today is indiscriminately displayed.
Iconic permanent collection
One of the reasons Tate Modern can boast of being amongst the world’s most visited modern art museums is its amazing permanent collection. With iconic art such as Picasso’s ‘Weeping Woman’ and Monet’s ‘Water-Lilies’ on permanent display, no wonder they attract around 5.8 million visitors a year.
Top-floor viewing gallery
Those who aren’t as interested in art can also enjoy Tate Modern. The Blavatnik Building on the Southbank boasts amazing views of the Thames and London from the top floor viewing deck. This open-air viewing terrace boasts one of the best views of London across the Thames.
Finish off your visit with a drink and snack from the bar while you take it all in. Free access to the terrace is via a dedicated elevator on the ground floor.
Did you know: (4 interesting facts!)
- Tate Modern’s building was converted from the Bankside Power Station and opened in 2000.
- The building is almost the same size as Westminster Abbey with the central chimney stands at 99m tall.
- The original architect of the power station was Giles Gilbert Scott. He is famous for having designed the iconic red telephone boxes.
- Tate Modern is the sixth most visited art gallery in the world and the most visited in the UK.
History
- 1889 – The Tate Group of galleries began when Henry Tate, a sugar merchant from Liverpool, donated his collection of contemporary paintings.
- 1947 – The Bankside Power Station building was built on the shore of the Thames.
- 1981 – The power station was closed.
- 2000 – The Queen opened Tate Modern in the Bankside Power Station building.
- 2016 – The new Switch House extension (now known as the Blavatnik Building) was opened, increasing the size of Tate Modern dramatically.
Facilities and Accessibility
The Tate Modern is located along the south bank of the Thames, near Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Due to the lack of parking near Tate Modern, it’s best to arrive via public transport or taxi.
There are several nearby Underground stations, including Southwark and London Bridge. You can also meander across the Thames over the pedestrian-only Millennium Bridge.
Tate Modern is accessible to visitors with disabilities and all entrances are wheelchair and stroller-friendly. The museum also has wheelchairs available to borrow for free. Visitors with a disability receive concessionary admission to special exhibitions.
The Tate Modern Riverside Café offers a family-friendly range of sandwiches, soups, and snacks. Located on the banks of the Thames, you can relax and unwind while enjoying riverside views.
The Tate Modern Bookshop in the Turbine Hall is one of the best art bookshops in London. It contains past items from exhibition catalogues to children’s books and is a great idea for gifts and souvenirs during your visit.
Map & Address (Location)
Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom
Bankside, London SE1, UK · Google Maps