Wickford Ghost Girl Hitchhiker
On the Southend Bypass in Wickford, a chilling phantom has been spotted by motorists. This stretch of road, particularly the roundabout, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who met her untimely demise in a motorcycle accident. According to local legend, she appears to be thumbing a lift, her destination seemingly Southend, where she was headed before her fatal crash. The apparition is thought to be that of a girl who died in the twentieth century, her spirit lingering, searching for a ride to the afterlife.
The story of this ghostly hitchhiker is deeply rooted in local urban mythology. While there's no concrete evidence to pinpoint the exact date or circumstances of her death, the legend has persisted, captivating the imagination of many. The fact that she is said to be heading towards Southend adds a poignant touch to her story, suggesting a longing to reach her intended destination, even in death. Although details are scarce, the haunting has been reported by multiple witnesses, lending some credibility to the claims.
The haunting is a relatively modern phenomenon, dating back to the twentieth century.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Thames River Monster Sighting
Mouth of the Thames, Westcliff on Sea
The Mouth of the Thames, a stretch of waterway that has witnessed countless maritime activities over the years, was the unlikely location for a bizarre cryptozoological sighting back in August 1923. On this particular occasion, two crew members, including the captain, were on board a vessel navigating the river when they spotted something extraordinary. A snakelike neck, estimated to be about two metres long, rose from the water not once but twice. The crew got a brief glimpse of the monster's head as it looked around before vanishing into the depths of the river.
Palace Theatre Ghost Sitting
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea
The Palace Theatre in Westcliff on Sea, Essex, has a rather unsettling reputation. It's said that George, a former theatre manager, likes to sit next to patrons during performances. People have reported feeling someone take up position beside them, even though George remains invisible while seated. It's a strange and unnerving experience, to say the least. The theatre has been converted into an arts centre, but it seems George hasn't left.
Leigh Building Footsteps Haunting
on, Leigh
In the heart of Leigh, Essex, a mysterious presence has been detected within a local building. On 21 March 2012, a witness reported hearing unexplained footsteps and other strange sounds after the building had closed. The eerie atmosphere took a more bizarre turn when the witness saw items being moved unaided, leaving them wondering if they were truly alone. The building's history is shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain - its reputation as a hotspot for paranormal activity has been cemented.
Leigh's Mysterious Lynx Sightings
on, Leigh
Leigh in Essex is a place where the ordinary and the unexplained seem to coexist, particularly at night. Residents and visitors have reported catching glimpses of a large cat, possibly a lynx, roaming the area under the cover of darkness. The creature's appearances have been sporadic, with sightings logged between 2005 and 2010, and some claim it continues to haunt these parts. Descriptions of the animal are scarce, but it is said to be a majestic creature with a distinctive appearance.
Leigh Bakery Ghost
on, Leigh
The bakery in Leigh, Essex, has a reputation for being one of the town's most haunted locations. It's said that a man who took his own life on the site before it was converted into a bakery is responsible for the paranormal activity. Staff have reported objects being moved around, footsteps echoing through the empty corridors, and inexplicable breezes sweeping through parts of the bakery. One worker was so spooked by what they saw that they fled the bakery and never spoke about the incident again.
The Wobbly Man of Leigh
on, Leigh
In the quaint town of Leigh, Essex, a most unusual ghostly apparition has been spotted. Dubbed the Wobbly Man, this short spirit is said to appear accompanied by a rather pungent fishy smell. He's easily recognisable in his long coat, which adds to the mystique of this bizarre encounter. While details of the sightings are scarce, the Wobbly Man has become a local legend of sorts, with many curious onlookers eager to catch a glimpse of him.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Roundabout on Southend Bypass

The Shurland Hotel
Eastchurch, Kent

The Blue Boar Hotel
Maldon, Essex

Hamlet Hotels Maidstone
Maidstone, Kent