Discover Tate Modern | A Visitor's Introduction to Tate Modern

Why Visit Tate Modern?

Tate Modern offers a world-class collection of art from the 20th and 21st centuries, showcasing works by some of the most influential and innovative artists of the modern era. It’s a space where visitors can engage with a wide variety of artistic forms, from painting and sculpture to installations, photography, film, and performance art. The museum’s dynamic and ever-changing exhibitions, along with its impressive permanent collection, ensure that there is always something new to discover.

Beyond its art, Tate Modern is a cultural landmark in itself. The building, designed by architects Herzog & de Meuron, is a stunning example of industrial architecture repurposed for the modern age. The museum’s location along the Thames also offers stunning views of London’s skyline, including landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge.

Main Highlights of Tate Modern

1. The Turbine Hall: One of Tate Modern’s most distinctive features is its vast Turbine Hall, the former turbine chamber of the Bankside Power Station. Spanning five stories in height, this space is used to showcase large-scale installations and artworks that often engage directly with the hall’s monumental size. Over the years, it has featured installations by renowned artists such as Olafur Eliasson, Ai Weiwei, and Louise Bourgeois. The Turbine Hall installations are usually temporary and are designed to create an immersive, often interactive, experience for visitors.

2. The Permanent Collection: Tate Modern's permanent collection is housed across several floors and features an impressive range of modern and contemporary art from the early 1900s to the present day. Visitors can see iconic works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Salvador Dalí, Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol. The collection is divided into thematic sections, allowing visitors to explore major movements such as Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, and Pop Art, as well as more contemporary practices.

3. The Blavatnik Building: In 2016, Tate Modern expanded with the addition of the Blavatnik Building, a striking 10-story extension also designed by Herzog & de Meuron. The Blavatnik Building houses even more gallery space, dedicated to new media, performance, and installation art, with a focus on works from the 21st century. It also features the Level 10 Viewing Terrace, offering panoramic views of London, including landmarks like the Shard, the Thames, and the London Eye.

4. Temporary Exhibitions: Tate Modern is known for its dynamic schedule of temporary exhibitions, which often focus on major contemporary artists, movements, or themes. These exhibitions offer deep dives into specific areas of modern and contemporary art, presenting works by globally recognised artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Anselm Kiefer, and Gerhard Richter. Visitors should check the museum's website for current and upcoming exhibitions, as these are often major draws in their own right.

5. Performance and Live Art: In addition to its static displays, Tate Modern is a leader in promoting performance and live art. The museum hosts a variety of events, including live performances, film screenings, artist talks, and workshops, many of which engage directly with the current exhibitions or specific artworks. The Tanks, located in the Blavatnik Building, are dedicated spaces for these types of events, featuring flexible areas for performance and video art.

Tate Modern Facilities and Visitor Information

Tate Modern offers a range of amenities to ensure an enjoyable visit. There are several cafes and restaurants on-site, including the Kitchen and Bar on Level 6 of the Blavatnik Building, which offers meals with a view of the Thames and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The museum also has a Terrace Bar, perfect for grabbing a drink or snack.

There are shops at various points in the museum, selling art books, prints, posters, and souvenirs inspired by the museum's collection and exhibitions. For families with children, the museum provides free family trails, workshops, and interactive activities designed to engage younger visitors with the art on display.

The museum is fully accessible, with lifts and ramps throughout, and wheelchairs are available for loan. The galleries are well-signposted, and maps are available at the entrance to help visitors navigate the expansive space. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the building.

Admission to Tate Modern’s permanent collection is free, although there is a charge for special exhibitions. Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak times, as popular exhibitions can sell out. Tate Modern is easily accessible via public transport, with nearby stations including Southwark (Jubilee line) and Blackfriars (District and Circle lines), as well as several bus routes.

Nearby Attractions

Tate Modern is located in a vibrant part of central London, close to several other major attractions. The Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of Shakespeare's original playhouse, is just a short walk away and offers both performances and guided tours. Borough Market, London’s famous food market, is nearby and makes a great stop for lunch or snacks. The Shard, the tallest building in the UK, is also within walking distance, offering its own observation deck with spectacular views over London.

For those interested in more art, the Bankside Gallery, located close to Tate Modern, features exhibitions of contemporary prints and watercolors. St. Paul’s Cathedral is just across the Millennium Bridge, offering a contrast to Tate Modern’s contemporary vibe with its historic architecture and religious significance.

Practical Advice for Visitors

A visit to Tate Modern can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day, depending on the depth of exploration and any special exhibitions. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the museum is large and spread over several floors. The museum can get busy, especially on weekends, so visiting on weekdays or early in the day can provide a quieter experience.

Photography is allowed in most parts of the museum, but not in special exhibitions, so be sure to check signage. Since admission to the permanent collection is free, it’s easy to return multiple times, and many visitors do so to explore different parts of the vast collection at a leisurely pace.