Tate Modern, London - Opening Times, Private Tours, Admission Details

London Tate Modern tower

Tate Modern is a huge modern art gallery in London. It’s housed inside a former power station on the south bank of the River Thames and although the bleak exterior and huge chimney remain, the look has been softened by the addition of trendy glass boxes. Inside, the conversion of the building has allowed for numerous floors of galleries and also a huge open exhibition space.

London Tate Modern inside

We love the way this building has been converted and we see architectural features we hadn’t noticed before, every time we visit. The vast array of modern art is also impressive though. There’s plenty to challenge your thoughts and the galleries are regularly updated. The building has just had a large modern extension added which makes use of some of the other bits of the old power station too. Tate Modern gets 4.6 million visitors a year which puts it in the top three UK tourist attractions.

The Tate Modern gallery in London

Tate Modern is open daily from Sunday to Thursday between 10am and 6pm and on Friday and Saturday between 10am and 10pm. Although entry is free, there are sometimes special exhibitions which are charged separately. The restaurant on the top floor is worth visiting too and there’s a decent cafe on the ground floor.

London Tate Modern with bridge

If you like what you see here, try the Tate Britain which is further down the Thames past the Houses of Parliament. Tate Britain is also free. For a unique experience, try the Private Tour of Tate Modern & Tate Britain which is led by an art historian.