Plan your visit to the iconic Tate Britain in London

Handy tips

Beat the crowds

• Choose calmer windows: Opt for weekday mornings, especially Tuesday to Thursday, or visit after 4 pm on Fridays.
  
• Use the riverside entrance: The Millbank entrance facing the Thames is usually quieter than Atterbury Street, even during popular exhibitions, and drops you straight into the rotunda and Duveen Galleries.
  
• Beat the school rush: Expect heavy school groups between 11 am and 2 pm on weekdays. For calmer galleries, arrive at the opening or visit after 3:30 pm.

Explore smarter

• Start with Turner: Head straight to the Clore Gallery at opening. Fewer people and softer morning light make Turner’s works feel more intimate and easier to appreciate.
  
• Time the Duveen Galleries: These sculpture halls shine when they’re quiet. Go right at 10am or during the 1–2pm lunchtime lull for the best experience.
  
• Use a smart flow: Start with the historic galleries and finish with modern and contemporary art. Crowds thin out upstairs later, making Bacon and Moore much easier to enjoy.

Know before booking your Tate Britain tickets

• Ticket overview: Choosing the right Tate Britain ticket comes down to depth of experience and whether you want expert context or independent exploration. Entry to Tate Britain is free, so paid tickets are only relevant if you’re planning a guided visit or a time-limited exhibition.
  
• Exhibition tickets: If you’re visiting specifically for the Lee Miller exhibition (2 October 2025 – 15 February 2026), an exhibition ticket is the clear baseline. It includes timed access to the exhibition and is best for those whose primary interest is Lee Miller’s work rather than a general overview of British art.
  
• Guided tours: If you want a curated introduction to Tate Britain, the 1-hour guided tour is the best option. It includes expert-led commentary covering key works across 500 years of British art and is perfect for those who value structure and deeper interpretation.
  
• Accessibility: Tate Britain is fully wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, with multiple facilities to accommodate guests with varying needs. Make sure you reach out to the staff on-site if you need any assistance or help navigating any section of the museum.

Facilities

• Information desks: Staffed help points are available near the Manton and Millbank entrances to assist visitors.
  
• Toilets: Standard and accessible toilets are located on the Lower Floor and in the Clore Gallery foyer.
  
• Baby changing: Baby changing facilities are provided near the café and Clore Gallery toilets for convenience.
  
• Changing Places toilet: A fully equipped Changing Places toilet is available with a RADAR key for accessibility.
  
• Lifts: Multiple lifts connecting lower and upper gallery floors are available throughout the museum.
  
• Cloakroom: Free bag and coat storage is provided on the lower floor for visitors.
  
• Seating: Benches and seats are placed near entrances and in galleries, with folding seats available on request.
  
• Water fountains: Drinking fountains are available next to the Lower Floor toilets and the café.
  
• Cafe (Djanogly Café): The café offers casual dining with light meals and drinks for visitors.
  
• Shops: The main shop on the upper floor and the Manton shop on the lower floor sell art books and gifts.
  
• Library & reading rooms: Study spaces are provided for prints, archives, and research purposes.
  
• Members Room: An exclusive lounge space is available for Tate members.
  
• Multi‑faith room: A quiet space is provided for prayer and contemplation.

Visiting with family

• Baby changing facilities are available on the lower floor near toilets and the café for easier care breaks.
  
• Story Space in the Manton Studio offers quiet reading and play areas with soft seating and books during school holidays and weekends.
  
• Djanogly Café serves light meals and snacks, suitable for families with kids.

Rules and restrictions

• Entry to the permanent collection is free. Some temporary exhibitions require paid tickets and may have separate conditions.
  
• Bags and items larger than 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm are not permitted inside.
  
• Electric skateboards, scooters, and folding bikes are prohibited. Non-electric versions must be stored in the cloakroom.
  
• Do not touch any artworks or display items.
  
• Photography for personal use is allowed without flash. Flashes, tripods, and camera supports are not permitted.
  
• Food and drink must only be consumed in designated areas such as the café, not inside galleries.
  
• Smoking and vaping are prohibited anywhere on the premises.
  
• Assistance dogs are welcome. Other animals are not permitted.
  
• Cloakroom space is limited and cannot accept oversized luggage.

Insider tips for Tate Britain

• Avoid the main entrance queue: The Manton Entrance ramp sees far fewer visitors than the main Millbank entrance, especially on weekday mornings. Arrive 30–40 minutes before opening, and you can skip the crowds.
  
• Plan your route for highlights: Tate Britain houses over 70,000 artworks spanning centuries. Focus on 5–7 must-see pieces, such as works by Turner, Hockney, and the Lee Miller exhibition, to avoid fatigue and ensure a meaningful visit.
  
• Hidden quiet spots: Between galleries, the Manton Staircase landings and upper floor corners often have seating and natural light, perfect for a 10–15 minute rest away from crowds.
  
• Exhibition shortcuts: For temporary shows like Lee Miller, enter via the Manton Foyer Shop side entrance. It drops you directly into the exhibition and avoids the afternoon crush at the main hall, saving 10–15 minutes.
  
• Timing your visit: Weekday mornings from Tuesday to Thursday are generally quietest. Weekends and UK school holidays see the largest crowds around 11 am–2 pm. Arriving early or mid-afternoon helps you avoid the busiest periods.