Top Things To Do In The Tate Modern (London) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in The Tate Modern

1. 1. The Tate Modern Highlights Tour

   Discover the must-see artworks at one of London's most prestigious modern art galleries with The Tate Modern Highlights Tour. This engaging guided tour takes visitors through the vast collection of modern and contemporary art that spans from the 1900s to the present day. You'll begin at the iconic Turbine Hall, which has hosted awe-inspiring installations since the museum's opening. As you navigate the former power station's unique architecture, you'll uncover the stories behind significant artworks by artists such as Picasso, Rothko, Dali, and Warhol, learning about the movements they spearheaded. The tour provides context and insight, enabling a deeper appreciation of the masterpieces on display. Spanning several floors, the tour promises an enriching experience for art lovers and casual visitors alike, exploring themes that have challenged and changed the course of art history.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: Free with admission, donations welcome

2. 2. Family Activities at the Tate Modern

   Tate Modern provides a wonderful array of family-friendly activities designed to inspire creativity in visitors of all ages. These activities range from hands-on workshops to interactive art installations, where children can engage with art in a playful and educational environment. During a visit, families can pick up activity packs that include games and tasks that encourage young ones to look at the art in thoughtful ways. The materials provided help to spark conversations about the art on display and enable children to interpret the works through their own imaginations. For a fully immersive experience, families can participate in storytelling sessions or collaborative art projects that often take place during school holidays and weekends. By participating in these family activities, children not only have fun but also develop a greater appreciation for the arts in an iconic setting, ensuring a memorable visit for the entire family.

   Duration: Varies · Price: Most activities are free

3. 3. Contemporary Art Walking Tour

   Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary art with the Tate Modern's specialized walking tour. This guided exploration takes you around the gallery to discover the latest additions to the Tate's extensive collection. You'll learn about emerging artists and recent works that are shaping the frontiers of contemporary art. The tour covers a range of mediums, from traditional painting and sculpture to new media and performance art. A knowledgeable guide provides insights into the themes and processes behind the art, giving context to the diverse range of works that reflect the current state of the global art scene. The Contemporary Art Walking Tour is an excellent opportunity for art enthusiasts to stay up-to-date with current trends and find fresh inspiration from today's influential artists.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission, donations welcome

4. 4. Sculpture in Focus Tour

   Tate Modern's Sculpture in Focus Tour offers a deep dive into the world of three-dimensional art. Throughout this curated tour, participants will explore the evolution of sculpture from early modernist pieces to contemporary installations. The guide will provide a detailed examination of key works within the museum's extensive collection, including those made from traditional materials like bronze and marble, as well as unconventional resources like found objects and industrial materials. Discussions during the tour will touch upon the technical aspects of sculpture creation, the historical context of the selected works, and the conceptual ideas that drive the creation of such pieces. Whether a seasoned art professional or a curious first-time visitor, this tour will expand your understanding and appreciation of the complexities and beauty of sculptural art.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission, donations welcome

5. 5. Art and Society Tour

   The Art and Society Tour at the Tate Modern is a thought-provoking journey through the social and political dimensions of modern and contemporary art. Art lovers are taken on an insightful exploration of works that reflect and critique societal issues such as identity, power, inequality, and environmental concerns. Esteemed artists from various backgrounds use their medium to comment on the times we live in, sparking dialogue among viewers. The tour guides encourage participants to participate in the discussion, resulting in a dynamic and interactive experience. As you travel through the gallery spaces, you'll encounter art that challenges perceptions and encourages reflection on the role of creativity in understanding our world. This tour is particularly appealing to those who are interested in the intersection of the arts, culture, and social movements.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission, donations welcome

6. 6. Tate Modern Photography Tour

   Photography enthusiasts can delve into the world of camera work with the Tate Modern Photography Tour. This guided tour focuses on the photography collection housed within the museum, featuring iconic works by seminal photographers as well as pieces by contemporary practitioners pushing the boundaries of the medium. Visitors will explore different styles and epochs of photography, from documentary and photojournalism to conceptual photography and digital imagery. Along the way, the guide will share the stories behind the photographs and the technological advances that have shaped the field. This tour is an ideal way for visitors to grasp the evolution of photography and the diverse ways in which photographers capture and interpret the visual world around us.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with admission, donations welcome

7. 7. Private Viewings and Curator Talks

   For a more intimate and specialized experience, the Tate Modern offers private viewings and curator talks. With access to galleries outside of regular opening hours, you can enjoy the art in a quieter setting without the distraction of the crowds. Led by a curator or specialist, these exclusive sessions provide a deeper understanding of selected exhibitions, offering insider insights into the curatorial process, the artists' intentions, and the cultural impact of the works. It's an unparalleled opportunity to ask questions and engage with art on a personal level. These events are typically scheduled in advance and can cater to small groups interested in particular aspects of modern art, making them ideal for academics, art professionals, or anyone seeking a more substantial engagement with the museum's offerings.

   Duration: Varies · Price: Fees vary, advance booking required

8. 8. Artist-led Workshops

   At Tate Modern's artist-led workshops, visitors get the unique chance to create their own artworks under the guidance of a practicing artist. These sessions are structured around current exhibitions or particular art techniques and are designed to foster creativity in participants of all skill levels. Whether you're exploring printmaking, collage, or digital art forms, you'll be provided with materials and expert instruction to help you produce a piece of art to take home. Not only do these workshops offer a practical, hands-on approach to learning, but they also allow participants to discuss the processes, philosophies, and influences that inform artistic practice today. Engaging and fun, these workshops can broaden your own artistic horizons and offer a memorable, interactive museum visit.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Chargeable, varies depending on workshop

9. 9. Film Screenings

   The Tate Modern also offers a program of film screenings that complement the artistic narratives found within the gallery walls. These screenings range from classic avant-garde cinema to the works of contemporary filmmakers and video artists. By showcasing films that are art pieces in their own right or that have a thematic link to current exhibitions, the Tate Modern allows visitors to extend their art experience into the realm of moving images. These events provide a cinematic context for understanding the visual culture and are often followed by discussions or Q&A sessions with filmmakers, artists, or scholars. Whether you're a cinephile or simply interested in the crossover between visual art and film, these screenings add an enriching layer to the Tate Modern's diverse offerings.

   Duration: Varies · Price: Free with admission or chargeable for special screenings, varies per event

10. 10. Late at Tate

    Late at Tate is a series of after-hours events that take place at the Tate Modern, transforming the museum into a nocturnal cultural hub. These events often revolve around a theme and feature a mix of live music, performances, workshops, and pop-up talks. Visitors have the chance to explore the galleries and discover art in a new light while enjoying a dynamic and social atmosphere. Each Late at Tate event offers a different program, ensuring that no two evenings are the same. These occasions are perfect for those looking to combine a love of art with a night out, providing a compelling alternative to the traditional gallery visit. With new experiences around every corner, Late at Tate keeps the museum buzzing with energy long after the sun sets.

    Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Mostly free, some special events may be ticketed