Study Abroad: The One Thing You Can’t Miss in... London, England

TATE Modern

London is one of the most popular places to study abroad. It has all the things college students want out of an abroad location without the language requirement. Having spent four years just an hour away from this vibrant city, it holds a special place in my heart, which made narrowing down my list of favorite spots to just one a very difficult task! Luckily, with some help from some students who have recently studied abroad in London, it was agreed that the TATE Modern was the one spot that students just can’t miss!

Founded in 2000 from an old power plant, the TATE Modern has quickly become one of the most popular art galleries in London—and it’s easy to see why. The TATE Modern has an amazing permanent collection of modern art, constantly changing exhibits, a bar and restaurant with beautiful views, and a shop full of interesting and unique gifts. Even if you are not an art major, there is something everyone can enjoy at the TATE Modern.

One of the best parts about going to the TATE Modern is that it’s free—which will definitely fit any college student’s budget, especially when you are studying in one of the most expensive cities in the world. While there is a price to see current exhibitions, your free admission to the TATE Modern includes the permanent collection, which has several levels and is full of work from renowned artists such as Andy Warhol (who has an entire room), Roy Lichtenstein, Marcel Duchamp, Ed Ruscha, Jackson Pollock, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, just to name a few. In addition to the permanent collection, there is the constantly changing Unilever Series, an annual 3D series where an artist creates a unique larger-than-life installation that transforms the main hall of the gallery.

If art isn’t really your thing, there are other ways to enjoy the TATE Modern. One thing you should do is head to the top floor, where you will find a beautiful view of London. The TATE Modern’s excellent location offers a great view of the River Thames, Millennium Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral and other sights. While you’re at the top, head to the bar and restaurant where you can enjoy the view and grab something to eat after all the gallery walking you have done.

Before you leave, you should also check out the gift shop. It’s filled with tons of cool and quirky items, like the perpetual postcard calendar or soap crayons. The gift shop is also famous for getting local artists and designers to collaborate and create small collections of shirts, handbags and other items made exclusively for the TATE Modern. One of my personal favorites is the Orla Kiely collection, which is made by a British handbag designer that is always creating functional bags with interesting prints.

On your way out, be sure to take in the magnitude of the building. The industrial feeling from the converted power plant gives the TATE Modern something unique that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.