Tate Gallery, Liverpool

Tate Liverpool was created to display work from the Tate Collection, which comprises the national collection of British art from the year 1500 to the present day, as well as international modern art. The gallery also has a programme of temporary exhibitions. Until 2003, Tate Liverpool was the largest gallery of modern and contemporary art in the UK outside London.

The gallery opened in 1988 and is housed in a converted warehouse within the Albert Dock on Liverpool's waterfront. The original conversion was done by James Stirling but the building was given a major refurbishment in 1998 to create additional gallery space. In 2007, the foyer area was redesigned by architects Arca to create an updated appearance and better proportions, as well as to improve visitor handling. Behind the scenes, Arca also made alterations to the hospitality, cloakroom, events and education areas.

Why You Should Visit:
Great layout & light, and although not all of the art may be to your taste, there is always something to like.
Surely not as massive as Tate London, but you can look at things without being pushed out of the way by tourists.
There's a café where you can enjoy a revitalizing drink; there is also a decent variety of food, plus a souvenir shop provided.
And, of course, unless you want to see the paid-for exhibitions, it's all free (although you're encouraged, not unreasonably, to donate).

Tip:
There are lockers in the basement for coats, bags, etc., which take a £1 coin that's refunded.