1 / 3Tate Britain
📍 London, Greater London
Permanent free displays spanning 500 years of British art including the world's largest JMW Turner collection. Special exhibitions charge admission. Cafe, restaurant, and pram-friendly access on Millbank.
We started in the shop, which had lots of Turner and Constable books, postcards and lovely little art bits, sketchbooks, badges, the usual temptations. The historic portraits were interesting, though not my favourite section. I was much more drawn to the modern galleries. Seeing No Woman, No Cry by Chris Ofili was powerful in person, and the works by Francis Bacon were intense and unforgettable. The modern and abstract pieces across the museum were definitely the highlight for me. There was also a ticketed exhibition, Turner & Constable: Rivals & Originals, which was sold out unfortunately. Alongside that, the free collections were all open, including the Clore Gallery with works by J. M. W. Turner. I really enjoyed seeing his watercolours, loved the delicate colour pallette and atmospheric light. There were also films playing in some of the spaces and a large café to sit and reflect afterwards. Overall, an interesting and varied visit, with plenty to see depending on what draws you in.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with older children and teenagers who engage with art history — Turner's seascapes and modern British works hold attention for hours. Young children can find the gallery format less engaging, so plan shorter visits or pair with the cafe. Free permanent collections make it low-risk to drop in.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →22,558 Google reviews
Jae P
a month ago
“We started in the shop, which had lots of Turner and Constable books, postcards and lovely little art bits, sketchbooks, badges, the usual temptations. The historic portraits were interesting, though not my favourite section. I was much more drawn to the modern galleries. Seeing No Woman, No Cry by Chris Ofili was powerful in person, and the works by Francis Bacon were intense and unforgettable. The modern and abstract pieces across the museum were definitely the highlight for me. There was also a ticketed exhibition, Turner & Constable: Rivals & Originals, which was sold out unfortunately. Alongside that, the free collections were all open, including the Clore Gallery with works by J. M. W. Turner. I really enjoyed seeing his watercolours, loved the delicate colour pallette and atmospheric light. There were also films playing in some of the spaces and a large café to sit and reflect afterwards. Overall, an interesting and varied visit, with plenty to see depending on what draws you in.”
Martin Krehl
a month ago
“Guys, when in London, and even only a little interested in british art, go there. I have been in London for a short holiday maybe 20 times and always missed it. I was so stupid! And it is free! Only some special events and exibitions do cost some money. Easy access, suited for the handicapped, decent washing rooms, nice restaurant + gift shop. THEY HAVE ALL THE CLASSICS AND MORE. You‘ll need days to see everything.”
Partybus
a month ago
“Great permanent and tempory exhibitions. Permanent exhibitions free to public. There are a lot of guided tours and free talks about particular paintings. A great place to spend some time. It's on Millbank, opposite the MI6 building. For tourists - easy access from Pimlico, St James', Victoria and Westminster tube stations.”
h Suma
3 weeks ago
“The gallery has an impressive collection of paintings by Turner. It’s definitely worth visiting, especially if you appreciate art. You can easily spend around three hours exploring inside. Entry is free, and there is also a restaurant within the gallery. However, it may get quite busy on weekdays and during holidays. 🎨”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Tate Britain holds the world's largest collection of JMW Turner paintings alongside British art from the Tudors through to contemporary works. Permanent galleries are free; special exhibitions require ticketed entry. Free guided tours and talks run regularly. The on-site cafe and ground-floor restaurant are both open to visitors. Accessible from Pimlico, Victoria, Westminster, and St James's Park tube stations.
