There is a lot that is good about Lefferts Manor, where we stayed for six nights in April. It is very convenient for Prospect Park subway station from where the journey into Manhattan is rapid. The lounge/dining area downstairs is furnished to suit the age of the property and is comfortable in a homely sort of way with books, games, a computer for the use of guests and a variety of hot drinks from which to choose.
The area is quiet although Manhattan isn't far away. In 'the city which never sleeps' this was a definite plus point.
We stayed in the McManus Room on the third floor, sharing a bathroom with two other rooms. Here, the bed was comfortable, though a thinner duvet would have been appreciated.
The furniture was adequate, but not in first class condition, though once again, it suited the age of the property. The rugs needed cleaning or renewing. The window frames were peeling so much they must have been rotten and there was a large hole in the plaster, Generally, this left us with a feeling that the place was rather run down and needed repair and redecoration. This applied to the flaking varnish on the stairs and bannisters as well.
Another guest has mentioned ants, and there were indeed ants in the room as well as one or two downstairs on the tea table. I know ants are difficult to tackle unless their entry route can be established, but it does need addressing.
My biggest beef with the room was the bedding. It was very crumpled, which gave it a previously slept in appearance. One expects the bedding to look clean and cared for in a bed and breakfast.
We knew before we arrived that we would have to share a bathroom, and this wasn't a problem in itself. However, I agree with the guest who mentioned the half glass door. Although it was frosted, you had a view of guests inside and it was fairly clear what they were doing. Fortunately, you could hide round the corner when taking a shower. It did remind me of my days staying in youth hostels. Maybe a translucent blind on the door would do the trick, much as there is on the window.
The bathroom too, retained its period features but it had not been decorated or repaired sufficiently. Tiles were cracked and the toilet cistern often failed to fill up so the top had to be removed and the internal workings adjusted. There was no plug on the washbasin if you just wanted a wash rather than a full shower. A light bulb needed changing in one wall light. I know this sounds a bit picky, but they are all small irritations that are easily rectified.
The water was scaldingly hot when it ran through. You had to take great care in the shower and I could only turn the tap off with a face flannel as it burnt my hand. This is a more serious issue as it could have health & safety implications.
Finally, it was strange to see no-one other that the cleaner during a six day stay. There was nobody around to address any issues. It was like living in the house of someone whose benevolent presence was apparent - keys left under the umbrella stand, friendly notes in the room and on the walls - but who never appeared. We felt the lack of human contact!
All that said, we enjoyed our time in New York and the peculiarities of Lefferts Manor had grown on us by the end of our stay. Thanks for the hot chocolate!