Riflemaker Soho Square

This is the second Riflemaker gallery to open in London and, like the original in nearby Beak Street, is housed in an historic building. The Grade I listed mansion on Soho Square, built in 1746, was the first to be used as a hostel for the destitute back in 1746 and the House of Barnabas continues the good work today, helping the homeless and operating from the same building. The walled garden where you'll find the gallery's cafe also has an interesting past - it was from here that Charles Dickens took his inspiration for 'A Tale of Two Cities': "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..." The building itself with its rococo interiors and fine examples of Georgian plasterwork is worth a visit alone but with the Riflemaker's reputation, under the directorship of Virginia Damtsa and Tot Taylor, the art won't disappoint either. Exhibitions at the gallery take place within three rooms of the first floor of this historic building; the Council Room, originally the drawing room of the house, is particularly magnificent - look for the gods' heads in the corners, representing the four seasons. Complementing the exhibitions is a programme of regular evening talks and events hosted in what used to be a private chapel for hotel residents.