The Crimson Monk of Basildon
In the misty mornings of the 1970s, workers heading to a nearby factory in Basildon would catch a glimpse of a bizarre apparition - a crimson-clad monk seemingly floating without legs across the road, gliding into the grounds of Holy Cross Church. This eerie figure would reappear at different times, also seen crossing the highway towards Laindon Church. The mysterious monk's appearances were not limited to visual sightings; some people even reported hearing footsteps echoing through the empty church after hours.
Interestingly, not everyone was convinced of the paranormal nature of these sightings. One report suggested that a couple of friends might have been behind the haunting, using a projector to cast an image of the monk onto the misty air, creating an illusion that was misinterpreted as a ghostly apparition. While this explanation casts doubt on the supernatural origins of the sightings, it doesn't account for the multiple witnesses who described the figure, nor the reported audio evidence of footsteps within the church.
Holy Cross Church has been a place of worship since the 12th century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Phantom Coach of Mashbury
Forecourt of The Fox, Mashbury
At The Fox in Mashbury, a rather eerie sighting has been reported. A phantom coach, complete with horses, was seen entering the forecourt by the landlord's wife. The apparition apparently faded quickly from view, leaving more questions than answers. What was this ghostly carriage doing in the village? Was it a spectral visitor or a restless spirit connected to the local area?
The Waltham Abbey Monk
Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey
Waltham Abbey Church, a beautiful and historic site, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a monk. This spectral figure was first seen over twenty years ago, and since then, numerous people have reported catching a glimpse of him walking the graveyard. The monk's presence seems to be a gentle one, with no reports of malicious behaviour. It's almost as if he's still going about his daily routine, centuries after his passing.
Waltham Abbey Evil Presence
Waltham Abbey Church, Waltham Abbey
Waltham Abbey Church stands tall in the heart of Waltham Abbey, Essex, its ancient stones bearing witness to centuries of history. But for one couple, the church's grandeur was overshadowed by an intense sense of evil. Walking past the church in the 1950s, they noticed yellow lights shining through the window, a sight that would normally be quite innocuous. However, the woman was overcome by a feeling of malevolence so profound that it stayed with her for years, refusing to discuss the incident for several years after it happened.
Waltham Abbey Suicide Girl
Waltham Abbey, Epping
Waltham Abbey, a place steeped in history and intrigue, is said to be haunted by the restless spirit of a young girl who took her own life within its ancient walls. They call her the Suicide Girl, a poignant reminder of the tragic events that unfolded here centuries ago. Her story is one of desperation and heartbreak, a tale of a young woman who felt trapped and pursued by a man of the cloth. The abbey's tranquil atmosphere is said to be shattered by her presence, with reports of a sinister feel that permeates the air. It's a haunting that has been felt by many over the years, with some even claiming to have seen phantom lights flickering in the darkness.
The Lunchtime Cavalier Ghost
Green Dragon ale house, Waltham Abbey
The Green Dragon ale house in Waltham Abbey is home to a rather unusual ghostly inhabitant, known as the Lunchtime Drinker. This cavalier is said to appear only at lunchtime, a reoccurring sighting that has been reported by patrons and staff alike. Although he's now rarely seen, his presence is still felt by those who visit the pub during the day. The Lunchtime Drinker seems to be a harmless apparition, but his story has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
Knocking Ghost at Royal Gunpowder Mills
Royal Gunpowder Mills Museum, Waltham Abbey
The Royal Gunpowder Mills Museum in Waltham Abbey has become a hotspot for ghost hunting groups in recent years. They claim to have documented strange happenings, including knocks and other unexplained noises. This eerie phenomenon has piqued the interest of paranormal enthusiasts and the museum has become a go-to destination for those seeking a spine-tingling experience. The knocking sounds have been reported to occur at various times, leaving visitors and investigators alike wondering about the cause and origin of these bizarre events.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Vicinity of Holy Cross Church

The Green Man
Harlow, Essex

Down Hall Hotel
Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

Fox Connaught
Newham, London

The Brocket Arms
Ayot St Lawrence, Hertfordshire