Tate Britain: The Heart of British Art in London
Discover 500 years of British art masterpieces and contemporary creativity at Tate Britain, London’s premier free art gallery on the Thames.
Tate Britain, located on Millbank in London, is home to the largest collection of British art spanning over 500 years, from the 1500s to contemporary works. This free-admission gallery features masterpieces by J.M.W. Turner, William Hogarth, the Pre-Raphaelites, and modern artists such as David Hockney and Bridget Riley. Visitors can explore diverse exhibitions, sculpture galleries, and archives in a grand historic setting open daily from 10am to 6pm.
A brief summary to Tate Britain
- Millbank, London, SW1P 4RG, GB
- +442078878888
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Plan to spend at least two to three hours to fully appreciate the extensive collection and exhibitions.
- Take advantage of free guided tours and talks to deepen your understanding of the artworks and artists.
- Photography is allowed in permanent galleries for personal use—bring your camera but avoid flash.
- Visit the Duveen Galleries to see impressive British sculpture in a grand neo-classical setting.
- Check the Tate Britain website for special exhibitions and book tickets in advance when required.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Pimlico Station on the Victoria Line, approximately a 10-minute walk to Tate Britain. Alternatively, use bus routes 360, 87, or 507 which stop near Millbank. Travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes from central London. No charge beyond standard fare applies.
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River Boat
Use the Tate to Tate river boat service from Tate Modern, running every 40 minutes during the day. The scenic trip takes about 30 minutes and offers a unique approach along the Thames. Tickets cost around £7 one way.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes approximately 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £10 to £20. Note that parking near Tate Britain is limited and not recommended.
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Walking
From Westminster or Victoria, walking to Tate Britain takes about 25 to 35 minutes along the Thames Path or through central London streets. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for those who enjoy a scenic stroll.
Tate Britain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tate Britain
A Treasury of British Art Through the Ages
Tate Britain offers an unparalleled journey through the history of British art, showcasing a vast collection that spans more than five centuries. Visitors can admire iconic works by celebrated artists such as J.M.W. Turner, whose atmospheric seascapes dominate nine dedicated rooms, as well as William Hogarth, John Everett Millais, and the Pre-Raphaelites. The gallery also features modern and contemporary British art, including pieces by Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, Barbara Hepworth, David Hockney, and Bridget Riley, providing a comprehensive overview of the nation's artistic evolution.Architectural Grandeur and Sculptural Highlights
Housed in a striking building on the banks of the Thames, Tate Britain combines historic architecture with thoughtfully designed gallery spaces. The Duveen Galleries, notable for their barrel-vaulted ceilings, were the first in England specifically created to display sculpture and continue to host annual commissions by leading British artists. These grand spaces complement the extensive collection, offering an inspiring setting for sculpture and large-scale works.Dynamic Exhibitions and Artistic Commissions
Tate Britain maintains a vibrant program of temporary exhibitions and commissions that highlight emerging and established British talent. The annual Winter Commission transforms the grand entrance with new works, while the gallery’s ongoing Art Now series showcases cutting-edge contemporary artists. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives and ensure the gallery remains a lively hub for art lovers.Engaging Archives and Educational Resources
Beyond its galleries, Tate Britain houses an extensive archive of over one million items, including sketchbooks, photographs, letters, and artifacts related to British art and artists. The Archive Gallery presents rotating displays from this rich resource, offering deeper insights into artistic processes and histories. Educational programs, family trails, and free guided tours enrich the visitor experience, making the gallery accessible and engaging for all ages.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open daily from 10am to 6pm, Tate Britain welcomes visitors with free general admission, though some special exhibitions may require tickets. The gallery provides amenities such as restrooms, a café serving seasonal menus, seating areas, and shops offering art-related gifts. Photography is generally permitted in permanent galleries for personal use, enhancing the opportunity to capture the stunning artworks and architectural details.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated on Millbank along the Thames, Tate Britain is a cultural landmark in London, embodying the nation’s artistic heritage and ongoing creativity. Its extensive collection and dynamic programming make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, offering a tranquil yet inspiring environment to explore British art’s many stories and voices.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vauxhall Bridge
0.4 km
Vauxhall Bridge: Historic iron origins meet modern steel, linking London’s south and north banks with art and engineering heritage.
Southbank House
0.5 km
Historic terracotta landmark in Lambeth, blending Victorian pottery heritage with modern creative workspaces.
Statue of George V
0.9 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
1.0 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Westminster Hall
1.0 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
1.1 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
Cockpit Steps
1.1 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
1.2 km
Discover the historic charm and serene beauty of The Royal Military Chapel, a hidden gem in London's rich cultural landscape.
Memorial wall
1.2 km
Discover the Memorial Wall in London, a touching tribute that honors the sacrifices of heroes throughout history, inviting reflection and remembrance.
Little Ben Clock
1.2 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
His Majesty's Treasury
1.2 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
King Charles Street
1.2 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
1.2 km
London's premier riverside gateway to Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster's iconic landmarks.
South Bank Lion
1.2 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Churchill War Rooms
1.2 km
Discover the Churchill War Rooms, an iconic historical museum revealing the secrets of wartime Britain and Winston Churchill's leadership during WWII.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tamesis Dock
0.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Tamesis Dock, a floating bar on the Thames, offering drinks, food, and live music with stunning river views.
Lambeth Bridge
0.5 km
A vibrant red steel arch bridge blending historic ferry roots, elegant design, and London legends across the Thames.
Sinfonia Smith Square
0.6 km
Experience world-class classical music in a stunning 18th-century Baroque concert hall at the heart of Westminster.
St Saviours Church
0.6 km
Discover the soaring Gothic spire and rich Victorian heritage of St Saviour's Church, a timeless landmark in the heart of Pimlico, London.
Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens
0.6 km
Historic London park on the site of the famed 18th-century Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, blending cultural heritage with modern green space.
Garden Museum
0.7 km
Medieval church celebrating British gardens, from royal estates to allotments, with seasonal café.
Victoria Tower Gardens South
0.7 km
A peaceful riverside park in Westminster featuring iconic memorials, scenic views, and a family-friendly playground beside the Houses of Parliament.
St George Wharf
0.7 km
Experience vibrant riverside living in London’s iconic St George Wharf, blending modern architecture, stunning Thames views, and unbeatable connectivity.
Lambeth Palace
0.8 km
Explore the rich history and serene gardens of Lambeth Palace, the iconic residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury in London.
Thomas Cubitt statue
0.8 km
Honoring Thomas Cubitt, the visionary master builder who shaped Pimlico and Belgravia’s elegant streets and iconic London landmarks.
Jewel Tower
0.8 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a medieval fortress guarding royal treasures and parliamentary history opposite London’s iconic Houses of Parliament.
Dean's Yard
0.8 km
A historic, tranquil green courtyard nestled within Westminster Abbey’s precincts, blending monastic heritage with collegiate charm.
Royal Court
0.9 km
London’s Royal Court Theatre: A historic beacon for groundbreaking new plays and emerging playwrights in the heart of Sloane Square.
Westminster Abbey
0.9 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
The Sanctuary
0.9 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, with cozy rooms, a classic pub, and sustainable hospitality.
Essential places to dine
Sapori
0.4 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.5 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Ma La Sichuan
0.7 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Brunswick House
0.7 km
Experience inventive British cuisine in a stunning Georgian mansion adorned with chandeliers and antiques, blending history and modern dining in Vauxhall.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
1.0 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Caxton Grill
1.0 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
The Pem
1.0 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.1 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.3 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
The English Grill
1.3 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
OKAN South Bank
1.4 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
1.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Ekstedt at The Yard
1.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.9 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
1.0 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
1.1 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Browns of London
1.2 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
The Giftree London
1.3 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Cool Britannia
1.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
1.4 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
1.4 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
1.5 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
1.6 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
1.6 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.7 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.8 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Crest of London Ltd
1.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Lock & Co. Hatters
1.8 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Morpeth Arms
0.2 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
All Bar One Victoria
1.0 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Blue Boar Pub
1.0 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Westminster Arms
1.1 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Adam & Eve
1.1 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Two Chairmen
1.1 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
1.2 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
1.3 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Bbar
1.3 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
1.4 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Primo Bar, London
1.4 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Le Champagne Bar
1.5 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
All Bar One Waterloo
1.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
1.5 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
1.5 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Union
0.6 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
0.6 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Lightbox London
0.7 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Fire Nightclub
0.8 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
TSQ Club
1.8 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
1.9 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Scotch of St James
2.0 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Corsica Studios
2.0 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Tabu London
2.1 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Ministry of Sound
2.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Tiger Tiger London
2.1 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly