Tate Modern
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Tate Modern - by mazz_56 from Pixabay
Description
Tate Modern is a modern and contemporary art museum. The collection includes items from 1900 onward, complementing in a way the National Art Gallery and Tate Britain (located in Westminster). The museum is equally famous for its architecture which is the result of the conversion by Herzog & Meuron of the closed Bankside Power Station. A two-storey glass extension was added over part of the building but the vast Turbine Hall with its overhead travelling crane was preserved.
Access & Transport
The museum shell is easy to spot: an old massive power station right on the edge of the Thames. There is no underground station in the immediate vicinity, but Blackfriars and Southwark are both just under 10mins walk with Cannon Street, Mansion House and London Bridge about 15 mins away. The nearest bus stops are on Southwark Street, 200m at the back of the building.
Instructions & Recommendations
Entrance for the gallery is free but a charge is applicable for special events and exhibitions. We recommend combining this activity with a visit of St Paul's Cathedral, straight across the Millenium Bridge or the Borough Market, a 10-15mins walk along the Bankside waterfront.
Environmental & Social
The building materials can store heat, thus reducing energy consumption and natural air circulation has been thought of at the design stage. Socially slightly positive as it helps spread culture and the arts
Conclusion
It seems that, by definition, modern art can never please everybody and some of the items on display are sure to left you wondering why somebody would think of them as art. However, given the entrance ticket is free and the interior of the building is certainly worth experiencing, we see little downside in giving it a go. If you don't enjoy it, try the Kitchen and Bar on the 6th floor of Boiler House or the 10th floor of the Blavatnik building for great views over the City of London and St Paul's Cathedral in particular.
Key positive
Impressive interior, in particular the Turbine Hall
No entrance fee for permanent collection
Great views from the café and the viewing level
Key negative
Modern art collection will be hit and miss for most people
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but unlikely that any kids under 14 will enjoy any of the content. The museum is fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility with lift to floors.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Monday10:00 - 18:00
Tuesday10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday10:00 - 18:00
Thursday10:00 - 18:00
Friday10:00 - 18:00
Saturday10:00 - 18:00
Sunday10:00 - 18:00