A comprehensive guide on getting to Tate Modern

Where is Tate Modern located?

Address: Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom | Find on Map

Tate Modern sits on the south bank of the River Thames in the heart of London’s Bankside area. The museum is surrounded by cultural attractions, riverside walks, and restaurants, making it a lively spot for visitors.

Closest Landmark: Millennium Bridge (200 meters)

Getting to Tate Modern by public transport

  • Best for: Fast city travel
  • Travel time: From London city centre (e.g., Oxford Circus), about 20–25 mins
  • Closest stop: Southwark station

Take the Jubilee line to Southwark, about a 10‑minute walk to Tate Modern. Blackfriars (Circle & District) and St. Paul’s (Central) are slightly further but within easy walking distance.

  • Best for: Budget travel / short hops
  • Travel time: About 25–30 mins from Trafalgar Square
  • Closest stop: Southwark Street / Blackfriars Bridge Road

Routes 40, 63, and 100 stop on Blackfriars Bridge Road; route 381 stops on Southwark Street, and route 344 stops on Southwark Bridge Road, just a short walk away.

  • Best for: Regional travel or intercity connections
  • Travel time: From London Waterloo, about 15–20 mins
  • Closest stop: Blackfriars Station

Blackfriars is the closest mainline station, around a 10‑minute walk from Tate Modern. London Bridge and Cannon Street are also nearby and offer connections across the city.

  • Best for: Scenic sightseeing route
  • Travel time: River service from Westminster Pier about 30–40 mins
  • Closest stop: Bankside Pier

River services, including RB1 and RB6, stop at Bankside Pier, a short scenic walk to Tate Modern along the Thames.

Getting to Tate Modern by car

Driving route

  • Best for: Visitors coming from outside central London or those preferring private transport.
  • Travel time: Around 15–30 minutes from central London (traffic dependent).

From central London, take the A3211 Victoria Embankment eastbound, cross Blackfriars Bridge, then follow signs for Bankside. London congestion charges and heavy traffic at peak times are common, so plan accordingly.

Parking facilities

Tate Modern does not have a public car park. A limited number of blue badge/disabled parking spaces are available close to the entrance, but these must be requested and booked in advance through Tate Modern visitor services.

Alternatively, there are several nearby paid parking options:

Cycling/Walking to Tate Modern

  • Best for: Visitors who want to explore London on foot or by bike while enjoying riverside views and iconic city landmarks.
  • Travel time: Walk for about 30 minutes or cycle for around 10–15 minutes.
  • Distance: Approximately 1.5 to 2 miles from Trafalgar Square.

If you’re heading to Tate Modern from Trafalgar Square, walking or cycling is a great way to see the city. Follow the Thames riverside, and you’ll pass landmarks like the Southbank Centre, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare’s Globe, soaking in London’s riverside vibes before you reach the museum.

What is the best way to get to Tate Modern?

Budget-friendly

If you’re looking to save money, walking or cycling is ideal. From Trafalgar Square, it’s just a 25–30 minute walk or a 10-minute ride with great city views. Public transport like buses and the Tube also offer low-cost, convenient options.

Fastest route

For speed, taking the Tube is usually the quickest. From central London, the Jubilee Line to Southwark or the District and Circle Lines to Blackfriars get you within a short walk of the museum in 10–15 minutes.

To sightsee

Walking along the riverside is perfect for sightseeing. Cross Waterloo or Blackfriars Bridge, and you’ll pass landmarks like the Southbank Centre, the National Theatre, and Shakespeare’s Globe before reaching Tate Modern.

Frequently asked questions about getting to Tate Modern

Tate Modern is on Bankside, along the south bank of the River Thames in central London. It’s near landmarks like Shakespeare’s Globe and the Millennium Bridge, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing in the area.