Shadows stretch across the industrial brickwork of a former power station as you stand before the towering facade of Tate Modern. Just across the river, the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral anchors the skyline, while the massive Turbine Hall behind you hums with the energy of modern and contemporary art. Here, in the heart of Southwark, the cavernous space once used to generate electricity now powers a global collection of works created from or after 1900.
Exploring the Scale of Modern Art
You can spend your time navigating the vast architecture of the former Bankside Power Station. The journey begins in the Turbine Hall, a colossal, six-story high space that runs the entire length of the building between the Boiler House and the Switch House. Because of its immense height and width, this hall is used to display exceptionally large works of art. From here, you can move into the Boiler House, which houses the main collection displays featuring pieces from 1900 to the present day.
For a different atmosphere, head toward the Switch House—a ten-story tower extension known as the Blavatnik Building. This area focuses on art from 1960 to the present day and includes several levels of gallery space. If you seek something more immersive, descend to "The Tanks." These are three large, circular underground spaces converted from the original fuel oil tanks; they are dedicated specifically to live performance art and installations.
Navigating the Collection
Your visit to the main collection is free of charge, providing access to eight distinct areas organized by specific themes or subjects. While the central themes remain stable, the individual rooms within these sections rotate periodically to showcase different works from the UK's national collection of international art. If you prefer a curated experience, the museum also hosts major temporary exhibitions, though these require purchased tickets.
Maximizing Your Visit
To fully appreciate the scale of the Turbine Hall and the intricate details of the Boiler House galleries, allow yourself ample time to wander between the different wings. A highlight not to miss is the transition from the industrial openness of the Turbine Hall into the specialized atmosphere of the Switch House, where you can cross a bridge on level 4 to move between the two main structures. The museum is easily accessible via Blackfriars station, located just a short walk away.
Beyond the Gallery Walls
After exploring the contemporary works at Tate Modern, you are situated in a vibrant area of London. For your next stop, you might consider heading toward the nearby landmarks of the South Bank or crossing the river to see other iconic sites such as the London Eye or the Tower of London.
Whether you are drawn by the history of the industrial conversion or the scale of the contemporary works, Tate Modern offers a profound look at art from 1900 to today. Start planning your visit to experience the vastness of the Turbine Hall for yourself.