Tate Modern
London, United Kingdom · Museum
About Tate Modern
Tate Modern is the United Kingdom's national gallery of international modern and contemporary art, located on the South Bank of the River Thames. Housed in the monumental former Bankside Power Station, it is one of the most visited and celebrated art museums in the world. Visitors can explore iconic works spanning from 1900 to the present day, featuring masters like Picasso, Warhol, and Dalí alongside groundbreaking contemporary installations.
Don't miss
- Walk through the vast Turbine Hall to marvel at massive, site-specific art commissions that challenge scale and imagination.
- Explore the permanent collection displays to see masterpiece paintings and sculptures by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko, and Henri Matisse.
- Head up to the Blavatnik Building's upper levels for striking architectural perspectives and panoramic views over London's skyline.
- Step down into The Tanks, the world's first museum galleries dedicated entirely to live art, performance, and video installations.
Plan your visit
Visit on a weekday morning right at opening time to experience the galleries before the largest crowds arrive. Friday and Saturday evenings also offer a more relaxed atmosphere when extended opening hours are in effect.
General admission to the permanent collection is free, though booking a timed-entry ticket online in advance is recommended. Special temporary exhibitions require a separate paid ticket, which should be reserved ahead of time.
Take the London Underground to Southwark or Blackfriars station, both of which are within a 10-minute walk of the gallery. Alternatively, you can take a scenic stroll across the pedestrian Millennium Bridge directly from St Paul's Cathedral.
Tips for visiting
- Download the digital gallery guide or pick up a printed floor plan, as navigating between the Natalie Bell Building and the Blavatnik Building can be tricky.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the South Bank to check out nearby attractions like Borough Market and Shakespeare's Globe.
- Check the museum schedule in advance if you wish to see live performance art or video screenings in The Tanks.
- Travel light, as large backpacks and suitcases are not permitted in the gallery spaces and cloakroom space is limited.
- Stop for a coffee or meal at the Level 6 restaurant to enjoy sweeping views across the Thames toward St Paul's Cathedral.
Tate Modern FAQ
Is Tate Modern free to visit?
Yes, access to the main collection galleries and the Turbine Hall is completely free. However, major temporary exhibitions require a paid ticket that is best booked in advance online. Voluntary donations are welcomed upon entry to help support the museum.
Is Tate Modern accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the gallery is fully accessible with step-free entrances, spacious elevators serving all floors, and accessible restrooms throughout. Wheelchairs are also available to borrow free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis from the information desks. Assistance dogs are welcome inside the building.
Can I take photos inside Tate Modern?
Photography for personal, non-commercial use is permitted throughout the permanent collections and public spaces. However, flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited. Some special exhibitions may also restrict photography depending on lender rules.
Are there dining options inside the museum?
Yes, the gallery offers several dining choices ranging from casual ground-floor cafés to an espresso bar and a full-service restaurant on the upper floors. The Level 6 Kitchen and Bar is particularly popular for its panoramic river views. Water refill stations are also available throughout the building.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: HeikoAL, Brida_staright on Pixabay.