Tate Modern: Discover the UK's Leading Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery
What is Tate Modern?
Tate Modern is London’s renowned gallery of modern and contemporary art, commanding views over one of the most captivating stretches of the River Thames. Housed within the historic Bankside Power Station, this former industrial powerhouse has been ingeniously transformed into not only an art haven but also a striking testament to architectural reinvention.
Adapted and revitalized by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron in 2000, the structure retains its original monumental character while seamlessly integrating modern design elements. The imposing power station chimney, a prominent feature on the London skyline, and the vast Turbine Hall—formerly home to turbines—now serve as iconic symbols of the museum’s ability to breathe new life into abandoned spaces through art.
In June 2016, Tate Modern underwent a major expansion with the opening of the Switch House (now known as the Blavatnik Building). This architecturally intriguing 10-storey pyramid-shaped tower adds 60% more exhibition space, increasing the total area by 23,000 square meters:cite[8]:cite[10]. The building is clad in a perforated lattice of 336,000 bricks, creating a stunning visual effect that allows it to glow in the evening.
The Turbine Hall, once the pulsating heart of the power station, now serves as the central hub around which the original Boiler House and the new Switch House revolve. It forms a huge open space for special commissions and events. The underground Tate Tanks, which were once power station reservoirs, now form the world’s first museum spaces dedicated to live art, performance, and film].
The exhibition galleries at Tate Modern offer visitors a comprehensive overview of modern and contemporary art from around the world. The museum hosts an ever-expanding array of events, exhibitions, and installations, featuring works by artists from historically renowned centers and emerging artistic hubs alike.
Tate Modern is an integral part of the wider Tate museum complex in the United Kingdom. Alongside Tate Britain, Tate Liverpool, and Tate St Ives, it annually hosts a program of temporary exhibitions dedicated to world-renowned artists.
What to see at Tate Modern
Turbine Hall
The most unique exhibition space at Tate Modern is the Turbine Hall, which once housed the power station's electric generators]. With a floor area of 3,400 m² and a height equivalent to seven stories, it displays large-scale, site-specific works by contemporary artists.
Must-See Art and Permanent Collection
The permanent collection at Tate Modern, accessible free of charge, showcases masterpieces of modern and contemporary art. While displays rotate regularly, here are key artists and works you're likely to encounter:
Iconic Artists & Masterpieces
- Andy Warhol - Marilyn Diptych (1962), the iconic Pop Art masterpiece
- Mark Rothko - The renowned Seagram Murals in the dedicated Rothko Room
- Henri Matisse - The Snail (1953), a brilliant example of his cut-out period
- Jackson Pollock - Yellow Islands (1952), representing Abstract Expressionism
- Salvador Dalí - Key surrealist works that challenge perception
- Roy Lichtenstein - Whaam! (1963), the definitive Pop Art comic strip painting
Navigating the Collection
Tate Modern organizes its collection thematically rather than chronologically, creating fascinating dialogues between different periods and movements:
Start Display - The Perfect Introduction
Ideal for first-time visitors, this curated trail brings together beloved works around universal themes like color, form, and human experience, offering an accessible overview across cultures and centuries.
- Materials and Objects: Explore how artists transform everyday materials into profound artistic statements
- Media Networks: Discover works engaging with technology and digital culture
- Artist and Society: Examine art's relationship with social and political ideals
- In the Studio: Immerse yourself in the creative process and abstract art origins
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry: The permanent collection remains free, but we recommend checking the Tate Modern website before your visit as gallery displays and rotations are frequent.
Private Tours: Our expert guides can help you navigate this vast collection efficiently, ensuring you see the most significant works while understanding their historical and cultural context.
Dining with a View
Tate Modern offers several dining options with spectacular views:
- Restaurant and Bar (Level 9, Blavatnik Building): Modern British menus with panoramic views of St Paul's Cathedral. Open daily 12:00–17:15 (drinks until 20:00 on Saturdays). Afternoon tea available Wednesday–Sunday from 15:00 (£30 per person).
- Tate Café (Level 1): Relaxed atmosphere with views of the River Thames, serving hot and cold drinks, wine, beer, sandwiches, and traditional fish & chips. Open daily 10:00–18:00.
Shops and Facilities
- Terrace Shop (Level 1, Blavatnik Building): Art books, designer collaborations, jewellery and prints. Open Sunday-Thursday 10:00–18:00, Friday-Saturday 10:00–21:00.
- Turbine Hall Shop (Ground Level): Modern art books, souvenirs, and children's gifts.
- Lockers: Available to rent on Level 0 of the Blavatnik Building. Bags larger than cabin size (55cm x 40cm x 20cm) are not permitted.
Ready to Explore Modern Art's Frontiers?
Book your Tate Modern Private Tour for an expert-guided journey through groundbreaking contemporary art in one of London's most iconic buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, entry to the permanent collection and displays is completely free. Some major temporary exhibitions require paid tickets, which we recommend booking in advance online.
Don't miss Andy Warhol's "Marilyn Diptych," Mark Rothko's Seagram Murals in the dedicated Rothko Room, Henri Matisse's "The Snail," and Roy Lichtenstein's "Whaam!" The collection also features major works by Salvador Dalí, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso.
Allow 2-3 hours for the highlights and main collections. To explore all galleries, the Turbine Hall, and enjoy the views from the Blavatnik Building, plan for 4-5 hours. The museum's vast scale can be overwhelming without proper planning.
The closest Tube stations are Southwark (Jubilee line) and Blackfriars (District and Circle lines), both about 5-10 minutes walk. London Bridge station (Northern, Jubilee lines) is 15 minutes walk. Numerous bus routes serve the area, and it's a pleasant walk across Millennium Bridge from St Paul's Cathedral.
Tate Modern is open Sunday to Thursday 10:00-18:00, and Friday to Saturday 10:00-22:00. The galleries start closing 15 minutes before the stated closing time. Last entry to paid exhibitions is 45 minutes before closing.
Start with the "Start Display" on Level 2 for a curated introduction. Focus on one wing at a time, and use the museum map to identify your must-see artworks. The building can be confusing, so don't hesitate to ask gallery assistants for directions.
Yes, lockers are available to rent on Level 0 of the Blavatnik Building. Bags larger than cabin size (55cm x 40cm x 20cm) are not permitted in the galleries. Large suitcases should be stored at left luggage facilities at major train stations.
Tate Modern is in London's vibrant Bankside area. Within walking distance you'll find Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the Millennium Bridge leading to St Paul's Cathedral, Borough Market for food lovers, and the Southbank Centre.
Photography for personal use without flash is permitted in most areas, unless specifically indicated. Tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed. Some temporary exhibitions may have additional restrictions on photography.
Tate Modern is fully accessible with step-free access throughout, accessible toilets, wheelchair loans, and induction loops. Guide and assistance dogs are welcome. The museum offers a range of resources for visitors with visual and hearing impairments.