Chelmsford Dance Hall Fire
In the heart of Chelmsford, a terrifying tragedy unfolded on a sweltering summer evening in 1938. Phyllis Newcombe, just 22 years old, was enjoying a night out at a local dance hall when disaster struck. As she left the dance floor, her dress suddenly burst into flames, engulfing her in a matter of seconds. The incident was all the more baffling given that tests later showed her clothing could not be ignited with a cigarette, leaving many to wonder if an otherworldly force was at play.
This chilling case dates back to 27 August 1938, a time when Chelmsford was a thriving industrial town. Phyllis Newcombe's death was a devastating blow to her loved ones, and it remains a haunting reminder of the unexplained. The fact that her clothing was seemingly resistant to ignition has led some to speculate about the possibility of a supernatural or paranormal involvement. While we may never know for certain what happened that fateful night, the incident has become a notorious part of Chelmsford's ghostly folklore.
Chelmsford was a growing industrial town in the early 20th century
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Anne Boleyn's Ghostly Procession
New Hall, Boreham
New Hall in Boreham, Essex, is a place where history and legend entwine. This stately home, once a favourite haunt of Anne Boleyn, is said to be traversed by the ghostly procession of the ill-fated queen herself. While still in favour with her husband, Henry VIII, Anne would often visit New Hall, and it's believed that her spirit continues to roam the corridors. The exact date and time of these sightings are unknown, but the legend has endured for centuries.
Phantom Victorian Gentleman
Regiment Way roundabout in Beaulieu, Chelmsford
Regiment Way in Beaulieu is a spot where the ordinary and the unexplained collide. On a typical night in 2018, two travellers slowed down to get their bearings as they approached the roundabout. That's when they spotted him - a man dressed in Victorian attire, complete with a small top hat, walking along the side of the road. The encounter was brief, lasting only a few seconds, before the man vanished into thin air, leaving behind a misty trail.
Abigail's Ghostly Carriage Ride
Main road through village, High Laver
High Laver village is home to a rather poignant ghostly sighting, one that tugs at the heartstrings of anyone who's ever experienced loss. On Christmas Eve, a mournful procession makes its way down the main road, a horse-drawn carriage carrying a lone figure, Abigail Masham. Her residence, once a grand part of the village, has long since vanished, leaving behind only memories and this annual, spectral revisit.
The Restless Spirit of Richard Jorden
Church and churchyard, Stodon Massey
Stondon Massey Church stands quietly in the Essex countryside, its ancient stones bearing witness to centuries of history. But it's not just the living who frequent this sacred spot - the ghost of Richard Jorden is said to roam the church grounds, a restless spirit driven by some unseen force. According to local legend, Jorden's body was found outside his coffin time and again after his death, prompting his friends to take drastic measures to keep him contained. They wrapped his casket in chains, a macabre attempt to prevent Jorden from climbing out once more.
The Funny Man Haunting
Springfield Place, Chelmsford
Springfield Place in Chelmsford has a rather unsavory reputation thanks to its resident ugly little dwarf, affectionately known as the Funny Man. This mischievous entity has been blamed for harassing numerous people who have ventured near the building, particularly in the churchyard. The Funny Man is said to be a troublesome fairy, prone to causing a ruckus and generally making life difficult for those who cross his path.
Mysterious Knocking at Well House
Well House, Broomfield
Well House, an old house just outside Broomfield village, has a haunting tale that has been etched in local history. Hours after the death of an aging father, his son, who was also on his deathbed, heard knocking at the front door several times. Each time, when someone went to answer it, there was no one there. This eerie incident, which took place in 1785, has left many questions unanswered. What was the purpose of these mysterious knocks? Was it a message from beyond the grave or just a strange coincidence?
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Unknown dance hall

The Blue Boar Hotel
Maldon, Essex

Down Hall Hotel
Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

The Green Man
Harlow, Essex
Brook Red Lion Hotel
Colchester, Essex