The Tall Man in Cloak
Patching Hall Lane in Chelmsford is home to a rather unsettling ghost story. Back in the 1970s, a group of teenagers were out and about on this very lane when they caught sight of a tall, pallid figure. He was a striking sight, dressed in a top hat and cloak, and he clearly gave the teens a fright as they took off in a hurry. One of them, however, looked back to see if the figure was following, but by that time, he had vanished into thin air.
The story of the Tall Man in Cloak remains a curious one, with no clear explanation as to who he might be or why he's haunting Patching Hall Lane. The fact that multiple teenagers witnessed the apparition lends some credibility to the tale. As we consider the historical context of the area, it's worth noting that Chelmsford has a rich history dating back to the medieval period, but specific details about Patching Hall Lane's past are scarce. The lack of concrete information doesn't deter the allure of the ghost story, though, and it continues to pique the interest of those drawn to the paranormal.
Chelmsford has a long history, but specific details about Patching Hall Lane are not readily available.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
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?
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.
Civic Theatre Ghostly Technician
Civic Theatre, Chelmsford
The Civic Theatre in Chelmsford is home to a most unusual and intriguing ghost story. A helpful technician who met his demise on nearby Duke Street is said to roam the building, assisting visitors and staff alike. His presence is often felt on stage, where footsteps have been reported, and on the balcony and stairs to the wardrobe and front of house office, where an overwhelming sense of discomfort pervades. It's as if he's still trying to lend a hand, even in death.
The Vanishing Shopper of Chelmsford
Pedestrian crossing over Parkway, Chelmsford
Chelmsford's Parkway pedestrian crossing is a mundane spot, but one that has played host to a rather strange and intriguing ghostly encounter. A witness waiting to cross the road noticed an older woman with a trolley or bag on the other side, waiting to make her way across. The witness looked away for just a few seconds, and when she turned back, the woman had vanished into thin air. There was no apparent place for her to have moved to, no nearby alleyways or doorways that could have swallowed her up. It's a baffling incident that has left many questions unanswered.
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.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Patching Hall Lane

The Blue Boar Hotel
Maldon, Essex

Down Hall Hotel
Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

The Green Man
Harlow, Essex