Tate Modern Tours and Activities

Tate Modern which includes a river or creek, a bridge and a city
Tate Modern
Tate Modern


Visit Britain’s most prestigious art gallery, housed in an abandoned power station on the banks of the River Thames.

From impressionism to surrealism, this enormous art gallery houses some of the world’s finest art, including works by Matisse, Dali and Picasso. The Tate Modern has exhibits ranging from the latest in modern contemporary art to work from former artistic masters.

Redesigned by Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron in 2000, this former power station on the banks of the River Thames is a maze of authentic artistic talent, bursting with modernity and character. Crossing the threshold of this gigantic building, visitors arrive at the Turbine hall, a vast space exhibiting huge works of art that are designed to surprise.

Wander through the building’s four wings, housing some of the 20th Century’s greatest masterpieces. The recently completed glass tower is a must-see for art lovers and photography enthusiasts. Specifically reserved for video and graphic art, this exhibition provides a stunning display of modern photography and graphic design. Check the constantly changing programme for The Tanks on the O level. These huge oil storage tanks showcase performance art and other events.

Attracting a diverse crowd from all over the world, the Tate Modern is visited by around 4 million people each year. The gallery’s sometimes controversial exhibits are popular with all age groups, even those who do not consider themselves fans of contemporary art.

The Tate Modern gallery understands that Modern art can be challenging in terms of interpretation, and therefore offers a 45-minute guided tour to give a better understanding and appreciation of the vast collection. If there any pieces that really appeal, jot down the details and buy a postcard depicting the piece from one of the the 3 gallery shops.

After a long day perusing these interesting collections, head down to the riverside café for a coffee or grab a bite to eat at the restaurant on level 6, which also offers views of the London cityscape.

Centrally located, the Tate Modern is easily accessible by underground, (the closest station being Southwark) and is within close proximity of other major attractions. Admission is free except for special exhibitions. For those seeking an extra dose of artistic discovery, hop aboard the Tate to Tate boat for an upriver cruise to the sister gallery Tate Britain.

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The Tower Hotel, by Thistle

The Tower Hotel, by Thistle

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Strand Palace Hotel

Strand Palace Hotel

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Tate Modern

When visiting Tate Modern, immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene and explore nearby theatres and unique shopping spots. Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour for an insider's perspective on the exhibits. For those seeking adventure indoors, the museum offers a range of engaging activities that make for a memorable experience in London's cultural hub.

Shopping

Borough Market, only 644m from Tate Modern, offers vibrant city vibes with fresh produce and artisanal goods. Brunswick Centre, 3.2km away, combines shopping with entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, Fortnum & Mason, also 3.2km away, presents a luxury shopping experience.

Recreation

The O2 Arena, a vibrant sports venue, offers thrilling events just 6.4km from Tate Modern. Experience the lively atmosphere at ABBA Arena, also 6.4km away, perfect for music lovers. For a peaceful retreat, Hampstead Heath, located 8.0km away, invites relaxation amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station, a cable car gondola offering breathtaking views 8.0km from Tate Modern. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill is a fantastic outdoor venue only 1.6km away, while the Oasis Go-Kart Track, located 4.8km away, promises exhilarating karting adventures.

Nightlife

At Tate Modern, the nightlife is vibrant and diverse. A short stroll to the Globe Theatre offers captivating performances, while the Barbican Arts Centre showcases cultural events. For a touch of adventure, the London Eye provides stunning views of the city, perfect for a memorable evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Tate Modern

When visiting Tate Modern in London, you'll find a vibrant mix of attractions including charming streets, historic churches, and lively piazzas. This cultural hub offers a variety of experiences for families and city explorers alike. Be sure to explore nearby points of interest and immerse yourself in the artistic vibe that Tate Modern has to offer. A visit to this iconic site promises to enrich your London adventure.

  • Big Ben: Experience the iconic clock tower that has become a symbol of London. just 1.6km from Tate Modern, Big Ben offers a glimpse into British culture and history, surrounded by the vibrant city atmosphere.
  • Tower Bridge: Discover the stunning architecture of this historic bridge, located a mile from Tate Modern. Tower Bridge showcases the rich heritage of London and provides picturesque views over the River Thames.
  • Piccadilly Circus: Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of this famous street, situated two miles from Tate Modern. Known for its bright lights and lively atmosphere, Piccadilly Circus is a cultural hub perfect for people-watching.

Best time to go to Tate Modern

The best time to visit Tate Modern can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Tate Modern falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Tate Modern falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.7°F (5.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
April49.5°F (9.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
July64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tate Modern

For a budget-friendly visit to Tate Modern, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance, or snagging last-minute deals on Expedia, can lead to significant savings. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s filters to find affordable hotel options and consider package deals that include flights and activities. Additionally, take advantage of London’s extensive public transport system to save on travel costs, and don’t miss the free exhibitions at the Tate Modern itself.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tate Modern are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Tate Modern is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tate Modern is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Tate Modern is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at the Tate Modern with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.