Everyone knows that London is home to some of the world’s great museums – generally huge, famous places that can take days to peruse. But don’t overlook some of the smaller gems in town. Sir John Soane’s Museum, tucked away on a quiet side street overlooking a small park, houses the 19th century architect’s splendid private collection of paintings, drawings, and antiquities. Delights range from Hogarth’s famous series of paintings, The Rake’s Progress, to ancient Roman statues, to original Piranesi drawings. Also included are souvenirs of all the important people of Soane’s day, including Napoleon and Wellington. The building itself, designed by Soane and opened in 1812, is an intriguing labyrinth that always seems bigger than it really is. By Act of Parliament, the museum is left as close as possible to what it was at the time of Soane’s death in 1837, so it is not just a museum, it is also a fascinating glimpse into the life of the architect and his age.