Tate Britain travel guide

Established in 1897, the grand Tate Britain, formerly known as the National Gallery of British Art, sits majestically in the heart of Westminster, London.

The gallery was founded by Sir Henry Tate, an industrialist and philanthropist, who donated his collection of British 19th-century art.

Designed by Sidney R.J. Smith, the gallery opened its doors to the public as the National Gallery of British Art, but quickly became known as the Tate Gallery, a name officially adopted in 1932.

In 2000, the gallery was renamed Tate Britain to distinguish it from its sister galleries: Tate Modern, Tate Liverpool, and Tate St Ives.

Tate Britain has undergone various renovations, including the opening of the Clore Gallery in 1987 to house the Turner Collection, and a major refurbishment completed in 2013, enhancing the building's original features while adding a new contemporary touch. Today, Tate Britain is a beacon of British art, housing an extensive collection from the 16th century to the present day.

Tate Britain is renowned for holding the largest collection of British art from 1500 to present day. The comprehensive range of artworks includes masterpieces by artists such as JMW Turner, Sir John Everett Millais, and Dame Barbara Hepworth. Notably, it houses the Turner Bequest, an extensive collection of JMW Turner’s work, including his celebrated watercolours.

A distinctive feature of Tate Britain is the BP Walk through British Art, a chronological display that allows visitors to walk through the timeline of British art, witnessing the evolution from 1500 to the present day.

Another unique feature is the annual Turner Prize exhibition which showcases the work of four shortlisted contemporary artists. The Prize, awarded at Tate Britain, is one of the most prestigious events in the UK art calendar.

Finally, Tate Britain’s architecture is a feature in itself. The grand neoclassical building, designed by Sidney R.J. Smith, is adorned with intricate details and sculptures, making the museum a masterpiece of its own.

Discover Tate Britain, a prime feature of London, in the vibrant City of Westminster. Tate Britain is situated at Millbank, London SW1P 4RG, UK, just a short distance from Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Tate Britain, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of London, a city in England rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit London to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Tate Britain. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive London travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Tate Britain is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in London, England. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to London, Gatwick Airport is approximately 23.9 miles (38.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Tate Britain by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in London, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Tate Britain, which is located 1.1 miles (1.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Millbank, London SW1P 4RG, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Tate Britain!

The best time to explore Tate Britain is during spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather, making it pleasant to wander through the museum and along the Thames. However, the museum is well-heated and air-conditioned, so it's comfortable even in winter and summer. To avoid heavy crowds, consider visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning. The museum tends to be busier during school holidays and on weekends. Tate Britain also hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year, including the Turner Prize exhibition held annually in the autumn. Late at Tate Britain is another unique event held on the last Friday of every month, offering music, workshops, and performances. To make the most of your visit, check the official website for up-to-date information on current and upcoming events. Furthermore, note that the museum opens at 10 am and admission is free except for major exhibitions.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to London, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Tate Britain.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic art gallery in England.

Choosing the right accommodation near Tate Britain from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in London can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Tate Britain, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Tate Britain, London boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in London offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in London is Trafalgar Square, located at Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS, UK. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Madame Tussauds London is worth seeing when you're in London. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, UK.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Big Ben completes any trip to London. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at London SW1A 0AA, UK, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in London below to discover even more incredible places to explore.