Is Turner Contemporary free to visit?

Yes, Turner Contemporary offers free entry for all visitors. Donations are welcomed to support exhibitions and educational programmes.

Where is Turner Contemporary located?

Turner Contemporary is located at Rendezvous, Margate, Kent CT9 1HG, overlooking Margate Main Sands on the seafront.

Is Turner Contemporary suitable for families?

Yes, the gallery runs family-friendly creative workshops, has accessible facilities, and welcomes children of all ages.

Does Turner Contemporary have parking?

There is pay-and-display parking near the gallery and additional parking available around Margate Harbour Arm and the Old Town.

How far is Turner Contemporary from Margate Station?

Turner Contemporary is approximately a five-minute walk from Margate railway station, with regular high-speed trains from London St Pancras.

Turner Contemporary Guide

Welcome to our guide for Turner Contemporary

Perched on Margate’s seafront with sweeping views of the North Sea, Turner Contemporary is one of the UK’s most acclaimed modern art galleries and a key cultural landmark on the Kent coast.

Designed by award-winning architect David Chipperfield, the gallery celebrates the artistic legacy of J.M.W. Turner, who drew inspiration from Margate’s dramatic skies and coastal light.

Opened in 2011 on the site where Turner once stayed, the gallery has played a major role in Margate’s cultural revival. Inside its minimalist glass-and-concrete structure, visitors will find a dynamic mix of international exhibitions, community art projects, and creative learning programmes for all ages.

Turner Contemporary isn’t just a gallery - it’s a vibrant hub for creativity, connection, and coastal culture.

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Things to Do at Turner Contemporary

Turner Contemporary interior gallery space

Explore the Galleries

View thought-provoking exhibitions by leading contemporary artists from across the world.

Join Creative Workshops

Take part in interactive art workshops, family sessions, and community events led by local artists.

Turner Contemporary café overlooking Margate beach

Enjoy the Café & Sea Views

Relax in the on-site café with panoramic views over Margate Main Sands and the North Sea.

Visitor Information

Location

Rendezvous, Margate, Kent, CT9 1HG

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Opening Hours

Summer (Apr–Oct): Tue–Sun 10am–5pm. Winter (Nov–Mar): Wed–Sun 11am–5pm. Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays.

Admission

Free entry for all visitors. Donations welcome to support exhibitions and learning programmes.

Facilities

Café, shop, accessible toilets, lift access, baby changing, and step-free entrance.

What’s on at Turner Contemporary

The gallery hosts a rotating programme of exhibitions that feature some of the world’s most exciting artists. Previous shows have included work by Tracey Emin, Barbara Hepworth, and Turner himself.

Visitors can enjoy:

Major temporary exhibitions and contemporary installations
Talks, tours, and artist-led events
Creative workshops for adults and families
Community projects supporting local talent

Check the Turner Contemporary website for the latest exhibition calendar and events.

People viewing sculptures and exhibits in a museum with large windows, modern architecture, and colorful vertical panels outside.

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