Tate Modern: London's Premier Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery
Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art in London's iconic former power station, featuring world-class collections and stunning river views.
Tate Modern, located on Bankside in London, is a world-renowned gallery showcasing modern and contemporary art from global artists including Picasso, Kusama, and Matisse. Housed in a striking former power station, it features iconic spaces like the Turbine Hall and the Blavatnik Building, offering free entry to its permanent collections and a dynamic program of exhibitions and performances.
A brief summary to Tate Modern
- Bankside, London, SE1 9TG, GB
- +442078878888
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Visit the 10th-floor viewing level in the Blavatnik Building for breathtaking panoramic views of London’s skyline.
- Take advantage of free entry to the permanent collection and consider booking tickets in advance for special exhibitions.
- Explore the interactive digital drawing bar, especially enjoyable for families with children.
- Use the Southwark Underground station on the Jubilee line for convenient access to the gallery.
- Plan your visit between 10:00 and 18:00 daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 22:00.
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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London Underground
Take the Jubilee line to Southwark station, approximately a 5–10 minute walk to Tate Modern. Trains run frequently with fares starting around £2.50 using an Oyster or contactless card.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Tate Modern, including routes 45, 63, and 100. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Standard bus fare is £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Riverboat
Riverboat services operate from various piers along the Thames, including Embankment and London Eye Pier, to Bankside Pier near Tate Modern. Journey times range from 15 to 30 minutes, with fares around £6–£8.
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Walking
From central London landmarks like St Paul's Cathedral, it’s a scenic 15–20 minute walk across the Millennium Bridge to Tate Modern. The route is flat and accessible for most visitors.
Tate Modern 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 Modern
Architectural Marvel Transformed into Art Hub
Tate Modern is housed in the former Bankside Power Station, a monumental industrial building on the south bank of the River Thames. Its vast Turbine Hall, which runs the length of the building, is an awe-inspiring space that has become iconic for large-scale installations and immersive art experiences. The gallery has expanded with the addition of the Blavatnik Building, which includes the 10th-floor viewing level offering panoramic views of London, and the Natalie Bell Building, home to creative workshops and a popular café with river vistas.World-Class Collections and Exhibitions
The gallery's permanent collection spans over a century of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by masters such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Salvador Dalí, Mark Rothko, Yayoi Kusama, and Jenny Holzer. Visitors can explore a variety of media including paintings, sculptures, video, and performance art. While entry to the permanent collection is free, some temporary exhibitions require a ticket, with discounts available for students and concessions.Engaging Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Tate Modern offers a rich visitor experience with guided Discovery Tours led by Tate experts, interactive digital drawing bars for children, and accessible facilities including large-print guides, audio-described tours, and BSL talks. The gallery is committed to inclusivity, providing amenities such as baby changing facilities, wheelchair-accessible routes, and a cloakroom for larger items. The museum’s layout and signage support easy navigation across its multiple levels and entrances.Vibrant Cultural and Social Atmosphere
Situated on the vibrant Bankside area, Tate Modern is not only a cultural landmark but also a social hub. It hosts live performances, video installations in its underground Tanks, and seasonal events. The riverside location offers scenic walks along the Thames, connecting visitors to other attractions. The gallery’s cafés and shops add to the lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.Practical Information for Visitors
Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with extended hours until 22:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, Tate Modern welcomes visitors year-round except on Christmas holidays. Admission to the permanent collection is free, while some special exhibitions require advance booking. The gallery encourages the use of public transport, with Southwark station on the Jubilee line nearby, and provides detailed accessibility information to ensure a comfortable visit for all.Artistic Legacy and Global Influence
As Britain’s national museum of modern and contemporary art, Tate Modern plays a vital role in shaping the global art scene. It showcases innovative works that challenge and expand artistic boundaries, reflecting diverse cultures and contemporary issues. Its commitment to education and community engagement continues to inspire creativity and dialogue among visitors from around the world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.4 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.4 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Victoria Embankment
0.6 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
South Bank Community Area
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.6 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Queen Anne Statue
0.7 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Historic England
0.7 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Temple Bar London
0.7 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Ludgate Circus
0.8 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.8 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
0.8 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
St Mary Abchurch
0.9 km
Wren's intimate masterpiece crowned by a celestial dome and adorned with Grinling Gibbons' finest carvings.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
0.9 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.9 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shakespeare's Globe
0.2 km
Experience the timeless magic of Shakespeare’s plays in the iconic open-air Globe Theatre on London’s historic South Bank.
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
0.2 km
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Millennium Bridge
0.2 km
Explore the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural gem in London, linking iconic landmarks with stunning river views and cultural experiences.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.3 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Bankside
0.3 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.5 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Queen Victoria St
0.5 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
College of Arms
0.5 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
The Clink Prison Museum
0.5 km
Step back into England’s darkest prison history at The Clink Prison Museum, where medieval justice and infamous inmates come alive.
Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club London
0.5 km
Experience top-tier comedy, delicious street food, and lively drinks at Southbank’s Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club, a hub for laughter and creativity.
Shakespeare in the City Walk
0.5 km
Discover Shakespeare’s London through hidden alleys, historic sites, and live performances on this immersive two-hour walking tour starting at Blackfriars Station.
Borough Yards
0.6 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
St James Garlickhythe
0.6 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.6 km
A poignant garden and memorial in London honoring the outcast dead, transforming a forgotten paupers’ graveyard into a place of remembrance and community.
The Blackfriar
0.6 km
A Grade II* listed Art Nouveau pub on the site of a medieval Dominican friary, packed with friar-themed carvings, mosaics, and stained glass in the heart of London.
Essential places to dine
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Madison
0.7 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.8 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.0 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.1 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
1.2 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.2 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Archduke
1.2 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.2 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
1.3 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
1.3 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
14 Hills
1.4 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Troia Southbank
1.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.4 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.6 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.6 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.7 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
0.8 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
The Royal Exchange
1.1 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Hay's Galleria
1.1 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Twinings - The Strand
1.1 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
1.2 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.2 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.
Smithfield Market
1.3 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
The Giftree London
1.4 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
1.4 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
London Silver Vaults
1.4 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Tower of London Shop
1.4 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.4 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
0.5 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Black Parrot
0.8 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
The Understudy
1.0 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.0 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Old Bank of England
1.1 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
The Old School Yard
1.1 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.2 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
The Bootlegger
1.2 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.2 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.2 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
1.3 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
1.3 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Nine Lives
1.3 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.3 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
1.3 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Corsica Studios
1.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Carwash Nightclub
1.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Heaven
1.7 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.
London Best Night Clubs
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
2.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
2.0 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
2.0 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly