Tate opens late to vaccinate

13 July 2021

This Friday (16 July) people from Southwark, and other areas of London, are being offered the unique opportunity to receive their free Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination at the Tate Modern’s dramatic and empowering entrance space, regular host to some of the world’s most memorable and acclaimed contemporary art.

The event will take place from 5pm to 9pm, and situated a convenient short walk from London Bridge station, people can either walk in on their way home from the city centre, or guarantee their slot by booking to receive their vaccination through Eventbrite.

While running as a Pfizer vaccination pop up, visitors will be able to enjoy access to free collection displays, as well as Tate Modern's temporary exhibitions, Sophie Taeuber-Arp and The EY Exhibition: The Making of Rodin in the gallery's quiet evening hours. Refreshments will be available free of charge for those who have received a vaccination on the evening and there will be discounts in all retail and catering outlets.

Second doses are also available for all those aged over 18, as long as it has been eight weeks since the first dose. This offers the best protection against the serious effects of Covid-19.

The event is being held by the Tate Modern, Southwark GPs, Southwark Council and supported by the wider south east London system including, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and NHS South East London CCG.

Cllr Kieron Williams, Leader of Southwark Council, said: “Flanked by the Thames and Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern is an iconic landmark in the borough. Millions of visitors have been inspired by the gallery’s Turbine Hall for more than 20 years and on Friday, this incredible space will host a very special pop-up of a different kind. We hope as many residents as possible seize the chance to get vaccinated where some of the world’s most unforgettable large-scale works of art have stood.

“Rates of COVID-19 are rising again, especially among younger adults, as we move towards a change in restrictions. There’s just no way to know how the virus will affect you or your loved ones, so we need all adults to get the vaccine to protect themselves and each other.”

Dr Nancy Küchemann, GP and Governing Body Member NHS South East London Clinical Commissioning Group said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Southwark people to the inspiring Tate Modern. I’m delighted that thousands of people in our borough have got the vaccine so far to help protect us all from COVID-19 but we haven’t finished yet. We want to make sure nobody is left behind and to encourage those who haven’t taken up the offer to join us at this special, one-off event to help protect their friends and family as well as themselves.”

Sir David Sloman, Regional Director for the NHS in London, said: “Vaccinations at the Tate Modern are just one of the ways that the NHS, partners, and businesses are creating more convenient ways for Londoners come forward for their jab. We’re calling on all those who haven’t been vaccinated to come forward to protect themselves, their friends and their families against this virus, so we can continue to enjoy London’s attractions, safely.”

Frances Morris, Director of Tate Modern, said: “Everyone at Tate Modern is delighted to be doing our bit for the vaccine roll-out. Friday evening’s pop-up vaccine centre in the Turbine Hall will help hundreds of people protect themselves, their friends and their families, as well as being able to enjoy exclusive access to our galleries for the night. I hope as many people as possible take up this opportunity and book now.”

Page last updated: 13 July 2021