Tate Modern London is the city’s big gallery of modern and contemporary art, and it costs nothing to walk in. It sits on the South Bank of the Thames, inside a huge former power station. This guide shows US visitors how to plan a visit, what to see first and how to fit it into a day on the river.
You do not need to know much about art to enjoy it. The building is a sight in its own right. The views from the top are free. And you can see a lot in two hours.
What Is Tate Modern London?
Tate Modern London is one of the Tate family of galleries. It shows art from 1900 to today, from Picasso and Matisse to living artists. The permanent collection is free to enter. Special exhibitions need a paid ticket, so check the official Tate Modern visit page before you go.
The gallery fills the old Bankside Power Station. Architect Giles Gilbert Scott designed the building, and it made electricity from 1963 to 1981. It then stood empty for years. Tate turned it into a gallery, and it opened to the public in May 2000. You can read more on the Tate history page.
Two buildings, one gallery
Tate Modern has two main parts. The old power station is the Boiler House. The newer tower on its south side is the Blavatnik Building, which opened in 2016. Herzog & de Meuron designed it, and its twisted brick shape stands out on the skyline. Inside, the two buildings link up, so you can move between them without going outside.
Why Visit Tate Modern London?
There are three good reasons. First, the art is free to see. Second, the building is dramatic. Third, it is easy to reach and sits next to other sights. Most US visitors fit it in on a South Bank day, along with the river walk and lunch.
It also works well on a wet day. Almost everything is indoors, and the cloakrooms and cafes let you settle in for a few hours. If you have seen the Tower of London and Westminster, this makes a good change of pace.
The Best Things to See at Tate Modern London
The gallery is big, so pick a few highlights. Here is where to start.
The Turbine Hall
The Turbine Hall is the huge entrance space. It is about 152 metres long and 35 metres high, and it once held the power station’s generators. Each year the gallery fills it with a large new work by an artist. The work changes, so look at the Tate Modern what’s on page to see what is there now.
The permanent collection
The galleries are grouped by theme, not just by date. You might see Picasso next to a work made last year. Look out for Matisse, Dalí, Warhol and the Rothko paintings. Rooms and displays move around, so do not plan around one work. Use the gallery map and ask a member of staff.
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The viewing level
The Blavatnik Building has a free public viewing level near the top. From there you look north over the Thames to St Paul’s Cathedral and the City. You also look across the rooftops of the South Bank. It is one of the best free views in London. Check the Tate site on the day, since it can close in bad weather. For other high spots, see our guide to the best views in London.
How to Plan Your Tate Modern London Visit
A little planning saves time. Here are the main points.
How long to allow
Plan on two to three hours. That gives you time for the Turbine Hall, a few galleries and the viewing level. Art fans can easily spend half a day. Free entry makes it simple to come back for a second visit.
When to go
Weekday mornings are usually calmer than weekends. School holidays are busier. If you want the viewing level without a crowd, go early or near closing time. Always check the official page for current opening hours, as they can change.
Tickets and costs
Entry to the permanent collection is free, and you do not need a ticket. Paid exhibitions have their own tickets, and these can sell out. Book those ahead on the official site. We do not list prices here because they change, and the Tate site always has the current figures.
Getting there
The nearest Tube stations are Southwark on the Jubilee line and Blackfriars on the District, Circle and Thameslink routes. London Bridge and St Paul’s are also a walk away. The best approach is on foot from St Paul’s. You cross the Millennium Bridge and arrive at the gallery steps. Our guide to getting around London explains the Tube and buses.
What to Do Near Tate Modern London
Tate Modern sits in one of the best walking areas in London. You can build a full day from here.
- Millennium Bridge. This steel footbridge links the gallery to St Paul’s. Read our piece on the Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s.
- Shakespeare’s Globe. The rebuilt theatre is a short walk east along the river. Visit the Shakespeare’s Globe website for tours and shows. Our story of the rebuilding of the Globe adds the background.
- Borough Market. This food market is about a 15-minute walk away. See our Borough Market guide and check its official site for trading days.
- The South Bank. Walk the river path for street food, book stalls and views. Our South Bank guide maps the route.
If art is the main reason for your trip, our London museums guide and the list of free museums in London will help you plan more stops.
A simple two-hour plan
Start in the Turbine Hall and take a look at the current commission. Then ride up to the viewing level for the skyline. Come back down and spend an hour in two or three collection galleries. Finish with a coffee and a walk to the river. This route covers the best of the gallery and leaves time for lunch at Borough Market.
Tips for US Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes. The galleries are large and you will walk a lot.
- Travel light. Ask at the entrance about the cloakroom for large bags.
- Download the gallery map or pick up a paper one at the entrance.
- Pair the visit with a river walk. The bank between Westminster and Tower Bridge is flat and easy.
- Check the Tate site for step-free routes and facilities if you need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tate Modern London free?
Yes, entry to the permanent collection is free. Special exhibitions need a paid ticket, so check the official site before you go.
How long do I need at Tate Modern London?
Allow two to three hours for the highlights. Art lovers may want half a day.
What is Tate Modern London housed in?
It sits in the former Bankside Power Station, which made electricity from 1963 to 1981. The gallery opened in the building in 2000.
How do I get to Tate Modern London from central London?
Take the Jubilee line to Southwark, or the train to Blackfriars. You can also walk across the Millennium Bridge from St Paul’s Cathedral.
Is the Tate Modern viewing level free?
Yes, the public viewing level in the Blavatnik Building is free. Check the Tate site for opening details, since it can close in poor weather.
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