The building's design was inspired by J.M.W. Turner's claim that the skies in Margate were the loveliest in all of Europe.
The gallery occupies the exact location of Mrs. Booth’s guesthouse, where the artist Turner lived during his frequent visits to the town.
The gallery's exterior cladding consists of acid-etched glass panels that change appearance depending on the weather.
The building was constructed as part of a £17.4 million project to boost the local economy and cultural identity of Margate.
The Sunley Gallery, one of the main exhibition halls, offers a direct, unobstructed view of the North Sea.
The gallery has hosted works by world-renowned artists such as Tracey Emin, who grew up in Margate.
Turner Contemporary is a contemporary art gallery situated on the site where J.M.W. Turner stayed when visiting Margate. The building, designed by architect David Chipperfield, features a series of interconnected, light-filled galleries with large windows overlooking the North Sea. The institution does not maintain a permanent collection, instead rotating temporary exhibitions of international and historical art. It stands on the edge of the Margate seafront near the historic harbour arm. The structure is composed of six distinct, frosted-glass-clad geometric volumes. It serves as a focal point for the cultural regeneration of the town. The gallery provides spaces for community programs, workshops, and educational activities. Its floor-to-ceiling windows utilize natural light to change the atmosphere of the interior based on sea conditions. The facility is fully accessible to visitors with limited mobility.
The large north-facing window in the Sunley Gallery, which captures the interplay between the art and the seascape.
Check the gallery website before visiting to confirm which exhibitions are currently on display.
Visit the onsite cafe for views of the coastline if the main gallery areas are crowded.
Combine your trip with a walk along the adjacent harbour arm for views back towards the building.
Assuming there is a permanent collection; visitors often arrive expecting to see specific historical pieces that are not on display.
Closed on Mondays except during school holidays.
