Tate Britain

Located in Millbank, the Tate Gallery was built by Sir Henry Tate with money earnt from the sugar trade. The Gallery was built on the former site of the Millbank Penitentiary in 1897 and overlooks the Thames. The magnificent building boasts a breath-taking neo-classical portico. Since its foundation the Tate Gallery has amassed a fine collection of British Art dating back to the 16th century. In 1987 construction was completed by architect James Stirling, of an adjoining Gallery to house the Turner Bequest, known as the Clore Gallery. J.M.W. Turner left his works to the nation upon his death in 1851 under the proviso that they were to be kept together. Turners works are now housed in their entirety in the Clore Gallery. The Original Tate Gallery is now home to the Tate Britain Collection. Amongst the pieces on display are works by Gainsborough, Hogath, Constable and Blake. In addition to the permanent exhibitions are many temporary exhibits from other collections. Though the Tate Modern has become the established home of Modern Art in London, the Turner Prize is still held at the Tate Britain. In 2001 the Tate Britain underwent renovation and expansion, now boasting a larger upper gallery and increased access to some areas of the Building. The Tate Britain can be easily accessed by the Underground System or by the Tate to Tate boat service that regularly shuttles from the Tate Modern at Bankside.