Free Collection Visit
Explore modern and contemporary art from around the world at your own pace. Visit the permanent collection, walk through the Turbine Hall and discover free displays throughout the gallery.
Plan a free visit →Tickets at a glance
Ticket Options & Prices
General admission to the gallery is free, while temporary exhibitions may require a paid ticket. Exhibition prices and availability vary.
Why Book in Advance?
A timed exhibition ticket can make your visit feel more effortless from the first step inside. It gives you a clear point around which to plan the rest of your time in the gallery.
- Secure your preferred entry time.
- Avoid limited same-day availability.
- Receive your booking confirmation before arrival.
- Plan your free collection visit around your exhibition entry.
| Ticket option | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| General Admission | Free | Access to the permanent collection, free displays, Turbine Hall and public gallery spaces |
| Special Exhibition Ticket | Varies by exhibition | Timed entry to one selected temporary exhibition |
| Young Visitor Ticket | Reduced price | Discounted exhibition entry for eligible young visitors |
| Family Child Ticket | Reduced price | Discounted exhibition entry for eligible children |
| Young Children | Usually free | Exhibition entry for eligible young children visiting with a parent or guardian |
| Membership Admission | Included with membership | Entry to ticketed exhibitions, subject to membership terms and availability |
Build your visit
Choose Your Tate Modern Experience
Move through the gallery in the way that suits your time, interests and company.
Special Exhibition Visit
Add a major temporary exhibition to your museum experience. Ticketed exhibitions offer a focused look at influential artists, movements and ideas.
Check exhibition tickets →
Tate Modern Highlights Visit
See the essential spaces in a shorter visit, including the Turbine Hall, selected collection rooms, large-scale installations and the building’s distinctive industrial architecture.
Explore visit options →
Family Visit
Combine accessible collection displays with family-friendly spaces and activities. Choose a flexible route and take breaks whenever needed.
Find family tickets →Inside the former power station
Tate Modern Highlights
Tate Modern is a sequence of memorable spaces: monumental, intimate, experimental and entirely London.
The Turbine Hall
Step inside the vast central hall of the former power station. This monumental space hosts ambitious installations and is one of the gallery’s most recognisable features.
Modern and Contemporary Art
Explore paintings, sculptures, photography, film, performance and installations created by influential artists from around the world.
The Tanks
Discover atmospheric underground spaces dedicated to live art, moving image and experimental work.
Landmark Architecture
Experience the contrast between the original industrial building and its striking modern extension.
London Views
Take a break from the galleries and enjoy impressive views across the River Thames and the surrounding skyline from selected public spaces.
Practical details
Plan Your Visit
Give the art, the architecture and the journey across the South Bank their due.
Opening Hours
| Day | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday–Sunday | 10:00–18:00 |
Last entry is generally shortly before closing. Opening hours may change on special occasions, so check the latest schedule before travelling.
Best Time to Visit
The gallery is usually quieter near the beginning or end of the day. Weekday mornings are a practical choice for visitors who prefer a more relaxed experience.
Busy periods may include weekends, school holidays and the middle of the day.
Getting There
Tate Modern is located on London’s South Bank beside the River Thames. It can be reached by Underground, rail, bus, bicycle or on foot. Several stations are within walking distance, and the riverside approach across Millennium Bridge is a popular walking route.
Accessibility
The gallery offers access for a wide range of visitors:
- Step-free entrances and lifts between floors
- Accessible toilets and quiet spaces
- Wheelchair and mobility equipment, subject to availability
- Support for visual, hearing, sensory and communication needs
Access arrangements may vary between exhibitions, so review the requirements for your selected experience before booking.
Bags and Security
- Bags may be checked on arrival.
- Large bags and suitcases may not be permitted.
- Backpacks may need to be carried by hand in busy galleries.
- Locker availability may be limited.
- Allow extra time for security checks.
Payments
Tate Modern operates primarily as a cashless venue, so be prepared to pay by card or contactless payment.
Suggested Visit Duration
Allow approximately 2–3 hours for a first visit to the free collection. Plan additional time when adding a ticketed exhibition, a meal or an extended exploration of the building.
From recent visitors
What Visitors Say
From the dramatic Turbine Hall to the world-class collection, visitors value Tate Modern for its art, architecture and unforgettable atmosphere.
Emma R.Visited the free collection and an exhibition
“I loved how easy it was to combine the free collection with a ticketed exhibition. The building itself is spectacular, and the Turbine Hall made an immediate impression. I spent almost three hours inside and still felt there was more to discover. Booking in advance made the visit feel simple and well organised.”
Daniel M.First visit to Tate Modern
“This was one of the highlights of my trip to London. I am not an art expert, but the galleries were engaging and easy to explore at my own pace. The mix of paintings, installations and industrial architecture kept the experience interesting throughout. I would happily visit again.”
Sophie L.Special exhibition visitor
“I booked a special exhibition and arrived a little early to explore the free collection first. Everything was clearly arranged, and having a timed ticket helped me plan the rest of my day. The exhibition was thought-provoking, while the views from the building were an unexpected bonus. It was a memorable and inspiring visit.”
James T.Group visit
“The scale of Tate Modern surprised me from the moment I walked in. There is a huge variety of art, so everyone in our group found something they enjoyed. We appreciated being able to take breaks and continue exploring without feeling rushed. It is an excellent choice for a flexible day out.”
Olivia K.Family visitor
“I visited with my family, and the experience worked well for both adults and children. The large open spaces made it comfortable to move around, and the installations sparked plenty of conversation. We focused on a few key galleries instead of trying to see everything. That made the visit relaxed and enjoyable.”
Marcus B.Short highlights visit
“I only had a couple of hours, but I was still able to see the Turbine Hall, several collection rooms and some impressive large-scale works. The combination of historic architecture and contemporary art gives the museum a unique atmosphere. I recommend deciding on your priorities before arriving because there is so much to explore. My visit felt worthwhile from start to finish.”
Questions, answered
FAQ
A few useful details for a smoother day at the gallery.
Is Tate Modern free to enter?
Yes. General admission and access to the permanent collection are free. Selected temporary exhibitions and experiences require a paid ticket.
Do I need to book a ticket for the free collection?
A paid ticket is not normally required for general admission. Entry arrangements may vary during busy periods or for specific events.
What is included with free general admission?
Free admission includes access to the permanent collection, public gallery spaces, the Turbine Hall and a range of free displays and installations.
Are special exhibitions included with general admission?
No. Many temporary exhibitions require a separate timed ticket. The ticket description will state exactly what is included.
Should I book exhibition tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance booking is recommended because popular entry times and exhibitions may sell out.
Can I buy a ticket on the day of my visit?
Same-day tickets may be available, but availability is not guaranteed. Booking in advance gives you a better chance of securing your preferred entry time.
How long should I spend at Tate Modern?
A practical first visit takes around two to three hours. Allow longer when visiting a special exhibition or exploring more of the collection.
Is Tate Modern suitable for children?
Yes. The large open spaces, installations and family-friendly areas make the gallery suitable for visitors of different ages. Some exhibitions may contain sensitive material.
Is Tate Modern wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Step-free entrances, lifts and accessible facilities are available. Mobility equipment may also be available, subject to capacity.
Can I bring a large bag or suitcase?
Large bags and suitcases may not be permitted. Smaller bags may be checked at the entrance, and storage capacity can be limited.
Can I take photographs inside?
Personal photography is generally allowed unless signs indicate otherwise. Flash, tripods and commercial photography may be restricted.
What happens if I miss my timed entry?
Late admission may not be guaranteed. Arrive early enough to complete security checks and reach the exhibition entrance before your booked time.