Turner Contemporary

Location

About

If you're planning a trip to Margate, England, one destination that should definitely be on your list is the Turner Contemporary Art gallery. Situated on the beautiful seafront, this gallery is not only an impressive feat of modern architecture, but it also houses an impressive collection of contemporary art.

The gallery is named after J.M.W. Turner, one of Britain's most famous artists, who loved to paint the beautiful sunsets and seascapes of Margate. In fact, the gallery's location is just a few hundred yards from where Turner stayed when he visited the town. The connection to Turner is important, as the gallery is designed to showcase his work alongside that of other contemporary artists.

Visitors to the gallery will be struck by the building's stunning design, which is a work of art in itself. Designed by renowned architect David Chipperfield, the building is made of glass and steel, and it reflects the changing light of the sky and sea. It's a building that is both modern and timeless, and it's a beautiful contrast to the traditional architecture of the surrounding town.

Once inside, visitors will find a diverse range of contemporary art on display, with exhibitions that change regularly. The gallery's aim is to showcase the best in contemporary art, and they have exhibited works from some of the biggest names in the art world, including Tracey Emin, Grayson Perry, and Yinka Shonibare.

One of the gallery's most impressive features is its light-filled spaces, which are perfect for displaying large-scale works of art. The main gallery, for example, is an enormous space that can accommodate works of up to five meters in height. This means that visitors can get up close and personal with some truly awe-inspiring pieces of art.

If you're planning a visit, be sure to check the gallery's website for information on current exhibitions, as well as any special events that may be taking place. The gallery also offers a range of tours, talks, and workshops, which can be a great way to learn more about the art on display.

After exploring the gallery, visitors can take a stroll along the beautiful Margate seafront, which is home to a range of cafes, restaurants, and bars. There's also the historic Margate Old Town, which is just a short walk away and is home to a range of independent shops and galleries.

In conclusion, the Turner Contemporary Art gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in contemporary art, architecture, or simply a love of beautiful spaces. The gallery's location in Margate, with its beautiful seafront and charming Old Town, makes it the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend break.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

Turner Contemporary is a world-renowned art gallery located in the heart of Margate, a seaside town on the southeast coast of England. The gallery was named after the famous painter J.M.W. Turner, who visited Margate regularly throughout his life and used the town as inspiration for many of his paintings. For tourists visiting the gallery, there are many places and things to do nearby that are worth exploring.

Firstly, visitors to Turner Contemporary should take a stroll along Margate's sandy beach, which stretches for miles along the coastline. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and taking in the fresh sea air. There are also plenty of beachfront cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee or a meal while enjoying the views of the sea.

Next, visitors should head to Margate Old Town, which is a charming area full of independent shops, galleries, and cafes. The old town is home to some of the town's oldest buildings, including the Tudor House and the Margate Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the town's rich history.

Another must-visit attraction near Turner Contemporary is Dreamland, an amusement park that has been entertaining visitors for over a century. The park is home to a variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and a traditional carousel. There are also plenty of food and drink stalls, as well as live music events throughout the summer months.

For art lovers, a visit to the nearby Shell Grotto is a must. This unique attraction is a series of underground chambers decorated entirely with seashells. The origin of the grotto is shrouded in mystery, with some suggesting it may have been a religious temple, while others believe it was simply a wealthy Victorian's folly.

Finally, visitors to Turner Contemporary should take a walk along the town's historic seafront. The seafront is lined with elegant Georgian and Victorian buildings, many of which have been converted into bars, restaurants, and boutique hotels. Along the way, visitors can admire the iconic Margate Clock Tower, which dates back to 1887 and is a much-loved local landmark.

In conclusion, Turner Contemporary is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in art and culture. However, there are also plenty of other things to see and do nearby, from enjoying the beach and exploring the old town to visiting Dreamland and admiring the seafront architecture. Whether you're visiting for a day or a week, there's something for everyone in Margate.