Nestled just east of downtown White Plains, Havilands Manor is a neighborhood that feels like a closely guarded secret—one residents are happy to share with newcomers seeking a warm, welcoming community. With its graceful, tree-lined streets, tight-knit feel, and family-friendly amenities, Havilands Manor offers an inviting blend of small-town charm and big-city access. If you’re considering a move to White Plains, here’s an inside look at life in Havilands Manor.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Neighborly, and Welcoming
There’s a reason so many Havilands Manor residents know each other by name. The community has a distinctly neighborly feel—a place where residents greet each other while walking their dogs, gather for an annual block party, or simply stop for a chat while tending their front gardens. The civic association is active and supportive, helping organize events and keeping neighbors informed.
You’ll often see children riding bikes or playing hopscotch on the sidewalks along Gedney Esplanade or Manor Place, while adults gather for impromptu conversations. Neighbors look out for one another, making it easy for newcomers to feel right at home.
Types of Housing: Classic Suburban Style
Havilands Manor’s housing stock is one of its distinguishing features. Developed primarily in the late 1930s and 1940s, the neighborhood is known for:
- Charming Colonials
- Tudors with steeply pitched roofs
- Cape Cods with quaint dormers
The homes typically sit on modest, well-kept lots with manicured lawns and mature shade trees—giving the streets a leafy, storybook appearance. Most homes are single-family, and many have seen tasteful renovations that honor the original architectural character without sacrificing modern comforts.
Notably, the neighborhood’s boundaries are well defined—usually considered to stretch from Mamaroneck Avenue to Ridgeway, and from Gedney Esplanade to Havilands Lane—so there’s a cozy, established feel.
Walkability: Strolling at Its Best
Havilands Manor boasts excellent walkability. Peaceful, safe streets with sidewalks make it a pleasure to walk to local destinations or simply loop the block for exercise. Residents often stroll with strollers, dogs, or bags of groceries from the nearby shops.
Mamaroneck Avenue, which forms the western edge of the neighborhood, has a range of conveniences just minutes on foot. You’ll find coffee shops, restaurants, small grocers, and other essentials—a real plus for those who value leave-the-car-at-home living. For daily essentials or a lazy Saturday breakfast, all it takes is a quick walk up the block.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top Marks
Families are drawn to Havilands Manor for its excellent schools and safe, nurturing environment. The neighborhood is zoned to some of White Plains’ highly rated public schools:
- William B. Ward Elementary School (located nearby on North Ridgeway)
- White Plains Middle School
- White Plains High School
These schools are known for engaged teachers, robust arts and athletics, and an inclusive atmosphere. Many kids walk or bike to school with friends, and there’s a real sense of community pride.
Beyond the classroom, Havilands Manor’s low-traffic streets and proximity to parks make it a fantastic environment for raising kids—many of whom form friendships that last for years.
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Roam
While the neighborhood itself is lush with mature trees and private yards, Havilands Manor is also close to some of White Plains’ best parks. Residents enjoy:
- Turnure Park: Just a short walk north—off Lake Street—Turnure offers playgrounds, ballfields, and plenty of green space for picnics and play. It’s a favorite for soccer practice or letting dogs run around.
- Maple Moor Golf Course: East of the neighborhood, this public course is a big draw for golfers and a scenic place for a weekend stroll.
- Saxon Woods Park: Less than ten minutes by car, Saxon Woods brings hiking trails, a pool, and acres of woodland to explore.
Even within Havilands Manor, you’ll find quiet corners—like Havilands Lane or Ridgeway—perfect for an evening walk under the glow of streetlamps.
Safety: Peace of Mind
Safety is a major draw for Havilands Manor. The area consistently rates among the safest residential neighborhoods in White Plains. Local police are responsive and engaged, but the true secret is watchful, caring neighbors who look out for one another.
The combination of low traffic, good lighting, and an involved civic association helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere where kids play freely and neighbors feel secure late into the evening.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
While Havilands Manor feels like a world apart, it’s strategically located for convenience:
- Downtown White Plains: Just a mile away—an easy walk, bike ride, or moments by car—offering world-class dining, shopping at The Westchester, and vibrant nightlife.
- Metro-North Station: Commuters appreciate being just minutes from the White Plains train station, offering direct Metro-North service to Grand Central Terminal in under 40 minutes.
- Major Employers: White Plains Hospital, Pace University, and the corporate offices downtown are all within close reach.
This blend of suburban serenity and urban access is a major selling point.
What Residents Love Most
Ask Havilands Manor locals what makes the neighborhood special, and you’ll hear themes repeated again and again:
- A true sense of community—neighbors feel like friends
- Beautiful, well-cared-for homes on quiet streets
- Walkability to shops, schools, and parks
- Family-friendly activities and block parties
- Proximity to both downtown White Plains and green spaces
In short, Havilands Manor is the kind of neighborhood where you can put down roots—whether you’re new to the area or have lived in White Plains your whole life. With its classic suburban charm, community spirit, and unbeatable location, it’s easy to see why so many people who move in never want to leave.