Guide
Tate Britain vs Tate Modern
Same family, very different days out. Here's how to choose — or do both.
- Tate Britain
- British art, 1500 to now
- Tate Modern
- International modern art
- Distance
- About 15 minutes by Tate Boat
- Entry
- Both free to the collections
The short answer
Choose Tate Britain for Turner, the Pre-Raphaelites and a calm, chronological walk through British art in a grand neoclassical building. Choose Tate Modern for big international names, installations and a converted power station with a famous view.
Atmosphere
Tate Britain is quieter and more contemplative — wide galleries, benches, room to think. Tate Modern is loud, busy and thrilling, with crowds that build all day.
Who each suits
- First time in London with limited hours: Tate Modern, for the building and the view.
- You love painting: Tate Britain, no contest.
- With small children: Tate Modern's turbine hall, then Tate Britain's calm rooms.
- Rainy afternoon and a slow pace: Tate Britain.
Doing both in one day
Start at Tate Britain at 10:00 while it's quiet, take the Tate Boat from Millbank Pier after lunch and finish at Tate Modern. Two galleries, one river trip, no tube.
Correct as of August 2026 — check tate.org.uk before you travel.