Hotels near Tate Modern

Tate Modern occupies the former Bankside Power Station, converted by Herzog & de Meuron and opened in 2000, and it is one of the most visited modern art museums in the world. The permanent collection, with works by Picasso, Rothko, Matisse and Louise Bourgeois, is free, and the vast Turbine Hall hosts a new large-scale commission each autumn.

It is the obvious plan for a rainy London day in October, and the free viewing level at the top of the Blavatnik Building gives a 360-degree panorama over St Paul's and the Thames. Paid special exhibitions need timed tickets. Across the Millennium Bridge, St Paul's Cathedral is a 10-minute walk away.

During Frieze week, Tate Modern and other public galleries often add late openings and talks.

Pro Tip: Go straight up to the viewing level on arrival, before it fills, then work down through the collection. Combine it with Borough Market, a 15-minute riverside walk east, for lunch.