Tate Modern is a major London museum for modern and contemporary art. It sits in the former Bankside Power Station by the River Thames. The gallery opened in 2000 and is part of the Tate group (with Tate Britain, Tate St Ives and Tate Liverpool + RIBA North).
Key takeaways
- Entry is free for the main collection displays, and you don’t need to book a timed slot to walk in.
- Exhibitions and some events cost money, and popular time slots can sell out.
- Opening hours: 10.00–18.00 (Sun–Thu) and 10.00–21.00 (Fri–Sat).
- As of 2026-01-30, big shows include Theatre Picasso (until 12 Apr 2026) and Nigerian Modernism (until 10 May 2026). The Turbine Hall has the free Hyundai Commission: Máret Ánne Sara (14 Oct 2025–6 Apr 2026).
- Discounts: Members enter exhibitions free. Ages 16–25 can get £5 exhibition tickets through Tate Collective (book online).
Free entry to Tate Modern
The main collection displays are free for everyone. You can drop in during opening hours without booking a ticket. Tickets are mainly for temporary exhibitions and some events.
Current exhibitions at Tate Modern
Exhibitions change often. For the latest dates and entry times, use Tate’s official pages.
- Hyundai Commission: Máret Ánne Sara: Goavve-Geabbil — free Turbine Hall work (14 Oct 2025–6 Apr 2026)
- Theatre Picasso — ticketed exhibition (until 12 Apr 2026)
- Nigerian Modernism — ticketed exhibition (until 10 May 2026)
Coming soon: Tracey Emin: A Second Life (27 Feb–31 Aug 2026) and Frida: The Making of an Icon (25 Jun 2026–3 Jan 2027).
How to book Tate Modern tickets
You don’t need a ticket for the free collection. For ticketed shows, events and tours, it’s best to book online. Members can usually enter exhibitions without booking. Tate also offers disabled admission tickets for exhibitions, with a free companion ticket.
Tate Modern visitor information
Book Tate exhibitions and events
Special events and programmes
Tate Modern also runs talks, tours, workshops and evening events, including “Tate Modern Lates” on selected dates. Some activities are free, while others need a ticket.
Collection highlights
Tate’s collection includes more than 70,000 artworks. At Tate Modern you can see well-known pieces, big installations and displays that change over time.
Accessibility and facilities
Tate Modern has step-free entrances, lifts and accessible toilets. It also provides access resources such as audio description and visual stories. The gallery is cashless, so pay by card or contactless.
Architecture and design
Herzog & de Meuron led the change from power station to museum. They also designed the major new wing, now known as the Blavatnik Building. The Turbine Hall is still the main space for large new works.
Dining and shopping
There are cafés and places to eat on site, plus shops with books, gifts and exhibition items.
Tips for visiting
- For the free collection, arrive early or later in the day to avoid the biggest crowds.
- For ticketed exhibitions, book ahead for the time you want.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the building is large and spread across many floors.
- Before you go, check opening times and any access updates.
FAQs
What are the ticket prices for Tate Modern?
The collection displays are free. Prices for exhibitions and events vary. Members enter exhibitions free, and 16–25s can get £5 exhibition tickets through Tate Collective.
Do I need to book a ticket to enter Tate Modern?
No. You can walk in for free entry during opening hours. You do need to book tickets for temporary exhibitions and some events.
How can I book tickets for special exhibitions at Tate Modern?
Book online through Tate’s official ticketing listings. Popular shows can sell out, so booking ahead helps.
Are there any discounts available for Tate Modern tickets?
Members enter exhibitions free. Tate Collective (ages 16–25) offers £5 exhibition tickets. Disabled exhibition tickets include a free companion ticket.
What are the opening hours of Tate Modern?
As of 2026-01-30: 10.00–18.00 (Sun–Thu) and 10.00–21.00 (Fri–Sat).
Can I visit Tate Modern without a ticket?
Yes. You don’t need a ticket for the free collection. Tickets are required for temporary exhibitions and some events.
