Sorry about the late review!! Flat was nice inside and very well equipped. I found it a little dark, not helped by the ivy on the balcony.The entrance, concrete flight of steps, gates over doors was a bit grim, but I suppose you get used to it. The block was very quiet apart from the odd clanging of railings and gates. Some street noise, inspite of double glazing but it tended to be of the slamming car door variety, with no passing traffic, which I really appreciated! Jess was very good with local info, walks etc and it was a boon having the supermarkets so close ( Waitrose being by far the better bet ). Both are open late. Walking times were a bit optimistic - it took me 15 mins to Farringdon tube ststion, and I guarantee I took the most direct route. The no. 63 bus up Farringdon road to King's cross was handy(stop at Clerkenwell rd.) but the best one for me was the no. 4 down Goswell Street to St Pauls and the Wobbly bridge. Fitted in nicely with lots I was doing - Borough market, Shard, Thames clippers etc.
There was a muddle up with keys when I first arrived because the cleaner was not told I was coming. Not Jess's fault of course, but I think she needs a contingency plan for the keys. If I had been late and missed the cleaner, I might have been hanging around for long enough.
Flat was designed for someone taller and I was wishing I had my little granddaughter's plastic step to use! If I had seen one I would have bought it. As it is, I got a plug for the bathroom basin because it had disappeared completely. Like another reviewer I found the bath a bit of a struggle to get in and out, but the shower suited me brilliantly.
Overall quite a good experience and the flat certainly has a lot going for it. Just ignore the outside.....
Thanks Jess! Cheers.