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Guide

Tate Britain with kids

Free, calm and full of big dramatic pictures — a surprisingly good gallery for families.

Entry
Free for everyone
Buggies
Welcome, lifts to all floors
Baby change
Available on main floors
Ideal length
60–90 minutes

Keep it short and dramatic

An hour is plenty. Aim for the biggest, most story-like paintings: shipwrecks and storms in the Turner rooms, Ophelia in the river, Blake's strange creatures. Ask what is happening in the picture rather than who painted it.

Practical bits

  • Arrive at 10:00 — quiet galleries mean fewer "shh" moments.
  • Leave big bags at the cloakroom; buggies go straight through.
  • The café is child-friendly; outside food is not allowed in the galleries.
  • Free family activity trails are often available at the desk.

Correct as of August 2026 — check tate.org.uk before you travel.

Where to run off steam afterwards

The riverside path outside is wide and flat, and there's green space nearby. A trip on the Tate Boat also works brilliantly as the reward at the end.

Collection entry is free. Tours and exhibitions may need a ticket.

Check tickets