A comprehensive guide on getting to Tate Britain

Where is Tate Britain located?

Address: Millbank, London SW1P 4RG, United Kingdom | Find on maps

Tate Britain is located in central London, on the north bank of the River Thames in the Millbank area. It sits slightly away from the busiest tourist zones, offering a calmer setting while remaining well connected to the city.

Closest landmark: Houses of Parliament (around 1 km away)

Getting to Tate Britain by public transport

  • Best for: Fast city travel
  • Travel time from Central London (Charing Cross): 10–15 minutes
  • Closest stations: Pimlico (Victoria Line, ~600 m), Vauxhall (Victoria Line and National Rail, ~850 m), Westminster (Circle, District, Jubilee Lines, ~1.2 km)

Pimlico station is the nearest Tube stop, just a short walk to Tate Britain. Vauxhall is slightly further but accessible via a 10-minute walk. Westminster station is convenient if you plan to combine sightseeing in the area.

  • Best for: Budget travel, sightseeing along the route
  • Travel time from Central London (Charing Cross): 15–20 minutes
  • Closest stops: John Islip Street, Vauxhall Bridge Road

Buses 2, 36, 87, 88, 185, 436, and C10 serve stops near Tate Britain. The nearest stops are John Islip Street and Millbank, just a short walk to the museum entrance.

  • Best for: Commuters, regional travel
  • Travel time from Central London (Charing Cross): 10–15 minutes
  • Closest stations: Vauxhall (850 m), Victoria (~1.6 km)

South Western Railway trains stop at Vauxhall, about an 11-minute walk to Tate Britain. Victoria Station is slightly farther but easily reachable by walking, bus, or Tube.

  • Best for: Scenic travel along the Thames
  • Travel time from Central London (Embankment area): 20–25 minutes
  • Nearest pier: Millbank Pier

The RB2 (Tate Boat) ferry connects Tate Britain with Tate Modern and other piers along the Thames. Boats typically run every 30–40 minutes. The pier is just steps from the museum entrance.

Getting to Tate Britain by car

Driving route

  • Best for: Flexible private travel
  • Travel time: From central London (Charing Cross), about 10–20 minutes depending on traffic
  • Distance: Around 3 kilometres via A3212 and Millbank

From the centre follow signs for Westminster and Millbank. Travel along the A3212 toward the Thames, then head north on Millbank. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so be sure to check live conditions.

Parking facilities

  • On‑site accessible parking is available for Blue Badge holders on John Islip Street near the entrance. These spaces should be booked in advance by contacting the museum.
  • Atterbury Street Blue Badge bays are close to Tate Britain and ideal for disabled parking.
  • Q‑Park Victoria is a reliable private car park about 15–20 minutes’ walk from Tate Britain, easy to reach and suitable for longer stays.

Cycling / Walking to Tate Britain

  • Best for: Scenic sightseeing, active travellers
  • Travel time: Walk for 25 minutes / Cycle for 10 minutes
  • Distance: 2 km from Trafalgar Square

Walking from Trafalgar Square to Tate Britain is a delightful way to explore central London. Head south on Whitehall toward Parliament Square, enjoy views of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, then continue along the Thames Embankment before crossing Vauxhall Bridge. The riverside route offers beautiful city views and a gentle gradient, while cycling via designated bike lanes along the Embankment and Millbank is a quick and pleasant alternative.

What is the best way to get to Tate Britain?

Budget-friendly

If you want to save money, take the London Underground or local buses. They’re affordable, frequent, and convenient, letting you reach Tate Britain without spending extra on taxis or parking.

Fastest route

For the quickest journey from central London, cycling is often your best bet. Using the bike lanes along the Embankment and Millbank, you can reach Tate Britain from Trafalgar Square in about 10 minutes.

To sightsee

If you want to enjoy the sights along the way, walk or cycle from Trafalgar Square. The 25-minute walk takes you past Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and along the Thames Embankment, letting you soak in London’s riverside views.

Accessible travel

If mobility or comfort is your priority, buses and taxis offer step-free access to Tate Britain. Pimlico station on the Victoria line is only 600 meters away, making the Underground a convenient option if you prefer a short walk.

Frequently asked questions about getting to Tate Britain in London

You can reach Tate Britain by bus, the underground, train, taxi, bicycle, or on foot. The museum is well connected, with nearby stations, bus stops, riverside piers, and cycle lanes making it accessible from central London.