Woodley Park Guest House in Washington

In my opinion, one of the best features of the Woodley Guest House is their convenient location across the street from the Metro. I also cannot say enough about the restored look and cleanliness of this establishment. Our room was large, comfortable, and nicely decorated. The two front desk ladies were friendly and welcoming. Now, for the not so best features. The owners were far from the warm and friendly hosts I’ve come to expect while staying at a B&B. They did not ever sit and engage in conversation around the breakfast table as another reviewer stated. In fact, when they saw we had finished our last bite, we were asked to leave to make room for other guests. They host 10 rooms but can only seat 8 at the table? Their website states that coffee is available till 4:00 and fresh cookies are there for the taking. We had to ask for coffee at 3:45 (thankfully, Betty stayed and made a fresh pot, but she was clearly not happy about it) and the cookies are boxed, and not high quality at that. Not only was there no coffee after 4:00, the owners and staff are gone as well till the next morning. They leave an “only if a real emergency” number taped to the front window. If you’re looking for an immaculate, nicely furnished, no frills B&B you’ll be satisfied. Next time I’m in DC, I’ll be staying elsewhere.

When choosing where to stay on vacation, I always prefer the personal service and hospitality a Bed and Breakfast offers. While clean, convenient and inclusive of breakfast, this guest house just misses the mark. In all fairness, there are some very good points here. The rooms are lovely and very clean and the beds are comfortable. While the accommodations are top notch, I felt that the guest house itself and the owners lacked warmth, charm and that “extra touch” I was looking for. The location is convenient with access to the Metro across the street. The owner, Laura, is very familiar with the area, but the other women who work there are not. You cannot get help with directions or recommendations if she is not there and after 4:00 pm, the staff leaves. Breakfast is served cheerily by Betty at 8:00 on weekdays and 8:30 on weekends. There are 8 seats at the table. If you arrive a few minutes before the designated time, the owner will tell you to come back. Once seated at the designated hour, you can enjoy the breakfast which I found to be good but portion controlled. There is toast and cereal and one breakfast entree (fruit cup, French toast, quiche or omelette) per person. I’m not a big eater so it was fine for me. If you are, you may be disappointed. No enjoying a second cup of coffee because you are told to leave so other guests can be seated. A guest house that accommodates 20 guests seats 8 at a time for breakfast? The owner is not tactful in expressing what she requires from you either. I found that to be quite off putting. There is tea all day but not coffee as the staff is gone at 4pm. A few store bought cookies are left on the desk. In my experience with B&B’s, the Innkeeper will offer freshly baked cookies or cheese and crackers in the afternoon. It’s nice to be welcomed back with a special treat and some pleasant conversation after a day of sightseeing . If you are looking for those amenities, you won’t find them here. The warmth and charm is nonexistent. In the rooms, there are envelopes to leave a tip for the housekeeper. Of course I certainly would tip for good service. The room was cleaned every day with the bed made, the bathroom tidied and fresh towels. Cleanliness is definitely a top priority here. What I found offensive is that the envelope has a message that in part says, “tips are appropriate and greatly appreciated.” I need not be told what is appropriate. If you are looking for some holiday cheer, you won’t find it here either. Not a wreath, evergreens or even a bow was in sight. As it is the owner’s prerogative to decorate as they see fit, it is not what a guest expects when staying at holiday time at a B&B. In my opinion, I feel that this is a clean, convenient place to stay in DC. If you are looking for warmth and charm, you won’t find it here. I would not return.