Standing on opposite side of the Thames, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern are like two generations of the same family. Both hold some of the most important pieces of art in the world; and both regularly host important exhibitions and displays – but they are markedly different in every other way.

Set back off Millbank, the Tate Britain is an impressive neo-classical building in a square plot that looks out over the river. Long vaulted central hallways have well-lit rooms off them through which you trail past a collection of British art dating from 1500.

Once you have finished with the formal culture offered by the this, head over to the young upstart across on the Southbank for a more student-like experience. The brick of the Tate Modern contrasts sharply to the austerity of the Tate Britain and the space inside this old power station is incredible. The Turbine Hall is regularly host to some of the most innovative modern art around and the surrounding galleries are sure to surprise and grab you. Oh, and of course most of what’s in there could have been done by a five-year-old …