Visiting an art gallery is perfect for a solo traveller in London.
The London Tate Galleries – Tate Modern and Tate Britain – are deservedly popular, but if you’re here for a short break, which one should you visit?
To help you decide which of these world-class art galleries to visit, here’s what to expect from them and how to make the right choice for you.
Which London Tate Gallery Should You Choose?
In my view, neither is better than the other. Choose the one that best suits your taste in art and fits your itinerary.
I prefer the exhibits in Tate Britain, but love Tate Modern’s views and atmosphere. Also, consider if there are special exhibitions that might sway your decision.
Quick Comparison
Pick Tate Modern if you want to
- See contemporary and modern art from around the world
- Be entertained, inspired or possibly confused by art
- Explore different media (paintings, photography, film, installations, sound)
- Take in London views from the 10th-floor terrace
- Visit the famous Turbine Hall installations
VISITING TATE MODERN
- Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG
- Opening hours: Open daily 10 am-6 pm. Check opening hours here.
- Entrance: Free permanent collection
Pick Tate Britain if you:
- Prefer more traditional artistic styles
- Want to walk through British art history
- Are a J.M.W. Turner fan (it has the world’s largest free Turner collection)
- Appreciate classical architecture
- Want to see the full range of British art in one place
Because Tate Britain includes some modern art, you could argue that you get the best of both worlds here
VISITING TATE BRITAIN
- Address: Millbank, London SW1 4RG
- Opening hours: Open daily 10 am-6 pm. Check opening times here.
- Entrance: Free permanent collection
Tate Modern vs Tate Britain: What Makes Each Gallery Unique
Tate Modern: Industrial icon on the South Bank
Tate Modern occupies a converted power station on the Thames, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott (who also designed Battersea Power Station). One of London’s most striking landmarks, it’s dominated by its 325-foot chimney.
The five-storey Turbine Hall, which once housed electricity generators, now hosts temporary large-scale installations. The collection is organised by theme rather than chronology, which lets you explore by the type of art you enjoy. Its modern collection includes works by Dalí, Matisse, Warhol, Picasso and Rothko, whilst contemporary artists include Gilbert & George and Susan Hiller.
The views are phenomenal. There’s the classic view of St Paul’s Cathedral across the Millennium Bridge, one of London’s most well-known bridges. The free viewing terrace wrapping around the 10th floor of the Blavatnik Building gives you panoramic views of London – brilliant for photos.
Getting there: Blackfriars Station is practically next door. St Paul’s, London Bridge and Southwark stations are within 15 minutes.
I recommend the stroll across the Millennium Bridge from St Paul’s or the slightly longer walk along the South Bank from Waterloo.
Tate Britain: A temple to British art
Designed by Sidney R.J. Smith, Tate Britain’s Victorian building will satisfy any classical architecture buff. The grand porticoed facade, central dome, sinuous spiral staircase and galleried rotunda give it the appearance of a palace.
The collection is a walk through British art history, arranged chronologically. Highlights include sculptures by Henry Moore, romantic paintings by the Pre-Raphaelites, works by LS Lowry and David Hockney, and an outstanding Turner collection. The Clore Gallery alone has nine rooms devoted to Turner.
Getting there: 10 minutes’ walk from Pimlico Tube station.
Designed by Sidney R.J. Smith, Tate Britain’s Victorian building, with its grand porticoed facade, will satisfy most classical architecture buffs. Inside, its glorious central dome, sinuous spiral staircase and galleried rotunda give it the appearance of a temple or palace.
Both galleries are free to visit
Entry to the permanent exhibitions is free at both galleries, so budget isn’t a deciding factor. Special exhibitions do charge, but there’s more than enough in the permanent collections to keep you occupied.
The cafes
Both galleries have great cafes. Tate Britain’s is in the basement, while the Kitchen and Bar on the 6th floor of Tate Modern has views that can’t be beaten.
Visiting Both London Tate Galleries in One Day
If you have time to visit both, take the Tate Boat (Thames Clipper RB1/RB2 service), which runs every 20-30 minutes during opening hours. The journey takes 20-25 minutes, and while it’s not the cheapest way to travel between the two sites, it’s certainly the best.
Both galleries are also accessible by riverboat from various Thames piers.
Making Your Choice
Whichever London Tate gallery you pick, you can’t go wrong. If you’re still undecided, check what special exhibitions are running; sometimes a must-see show makes the decision for you.
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.