Spontaneously Combusting Ghost Dog
In the quaint village of Hatfield Peverel, Essex, there's a rather unusual ghost story that's been doing the rounds for centuries. At the Gates of Crix, a house situated on the Chelmsford side of the village, a harmless ghost used to patrol in the form of a dog. This spectral canine was said to roam the grounds without causing any trouble, that is, unless it was antagonised. However, its existence took a dramatic turn with the arrival of the town's first motorcar.
The story goes that the ghostly dog was so shocked by the motorcar's arrival it burst into flame and disappeared without trace. This event likely took place in the late 19th or early 20th century, given that motorcars were a relatively new phenomenon at the time. The fact that this legend has survived for so long suggests that it was a well-known and perhaps even witnessed event in the community. Although there's no concrete evidence to support the claim, it's an interesting example of how the introduction of new technology can sometimes be perceived as a disruption to the normal course of events, even in the spiritual realm.
The story dates back to the pre-1900s, a time when motorcars were first being introduced to the UK.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Friendly Ghost of Vinehurst
Vinehurst house, Hatfield Peverel
Vinehurst House in Hatfield Peverel is said to be haunted by not one but two ghosts. The friendly spirit of Silas is believed to roam the property, bringing a sense of comfort to those who encounter him. However, the presence of a second entity is marked by a feeling of cold, which has been known to upset the family dog. This chilling contrast between the two ghosts has left many wondering about their stories and how they came to haunt Vinehurst House.
Pusher of Hatfield Peverel
William Boosey Public House, Hatfield Peverel
The William Boosey Public House in Hatfield Peverel is home to a rather mischievous trio of phantoms. Staff have reported encountering three ghostly apparitions, one of which has a penchant for pushing them from behind the bar. It's a strange and unexplained phenomenon that has left many a worker with a start. The pub's long history and rural location may contribute to its reputation for paranormal activity.
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 Floating Figure of Little Hallingbury
Junction at the bottom of Church Road, Little Hallingbury
In the quiet village of Little Hallingbury, a motorist had a startling encounter at the junction at the bottom of Church Road. It was a typical day in the 2010s when the driver had to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting a floating black figure. The figure vanished as quickly as it appeared, leaving the motorist shaken. This bizarre incident has become a talking point among locals and has sparked interest in the paranormal activity in the area.
Hitchhiking Cyclist of Rayleigh
Blinking Owl cafe, Rayleigh
The Blinking Owl cafe, situated in the Lychgate Industrial Estate in Rayleigh, Essex, is the focal point of a rather eerie and intriguing haunting. This spot has been associated with the ghostly apparition of a female cyclist since the 1950s. According to reports, she and her boyfriend had set off from the cafe on their motorbike, heading out into the night, but their journey was cut short when they crashed on the A127, resulting in both of their deaths. Now, motorists travelling along this stretch of road have reported encountering the female cyclist, who flags down cars and asks to be taken to the Blinking Owl cafe, in search of her boyfriend. She vanishes into thin air just as the cafe comes into view.
Lady Alice's Tragic Pond Haunting
Grace's Walk, Little Baddow
In the quaint village of Little Baddow, a somber presence lingers near a serene pond. This body of water, tucked away on Grace's Walk, holds a dark history that continues to unfold. Lady Alice, a young woman from the 17th century, met her untimely demise in these very waters. Her story is one of tragic desperation, driven to the edge by a cruel uncle. Now, her spirit is said to haunt this pond, a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of her circumstances.
Stay Nearby
Haunted hotels and accommodation near Gates of Crix

The Blue Boar Hotel
Maldon, Essex
Brook Red Lion Hotel
Colchester, Essex

The Rose and Crown
Colchester, Essex

Down Hall Hotel
Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire