Exploring Haunted Harlow and Nearby Spooky Sites
Old Harlow's Green Man Hotel, with its resident grieving mother, is a great starting point for exploring other reputedly haunted locations in and around the historic town of Harlow and wider Essex.
The Green Man Hotel, a 14th-century coaching inn, is steeped in local ghost lore, primarily focused on the tragic figure of the Bereaved Mother. However, for those keen on exploring more of Essex's haunted heritage, several other sites with ghostly reputations are within reach.
Within Harlow & Immediate Vicinity:
- St Mary-at-Latton Church: (Approx. 1 mile from The Green Man) This ancient church, with parts dating back to the 12th century, is a site where shadowy figures and sudden chills have been reported, particularly in the graveyard. Its long history includes Norman origins and 15th-century additions, providing a suitably atmospheric setting.
- Latton Bush Centre Area: (Approx. 1-2 miles) While now a modern centre, the area of Latton Bush has historical significance. Legends in Old Harlow speak of phantom horse hooves heard on cobblestones at night in the old town areas, and Latton Bush itself is sometimes associated with the ghost of a 19th-century farmer.
- Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens: (Approx. 1.5 miles from The Green Man) While not explicitly listed as haunted in the provided context, museums housed in historic buildings can often have their own tales. It's a key place to learn about the broader history of Harlow, which might provide context for local legends.
Further Afield in Essex:
- The Gibberd Garden: (Approx. 5 miles from The Green Man) Created by Sir Frederick Gibberd, the master-planner of Harlow New Town, this unique garden features sculptures and distinct areas. Some visitors have claimed to experience unusual phenomena, such as sensing moving statues at dusk, adding a layer of eerie charm to its artistic landscape.
- Waltham Abbey: (Approx. 8 miles south of The Green Man) The magnificent Waltham Abbey, with its Norman origins and burial site of King Harold, is reputed to be haunted by monks. Reports include sightings of shrouded figures, ethereal music, and a lingering smell of incense.
Tips for Ghost Explorers: Many of these locations are historic sites open to the public. Always respect opening hours, private property boundaries, and any rules for visitors. Some locations, like Waltham Abbey, have a long history of reported sightings, while others are more based on local anecdotal tales. Combining a visit to The Green Man with these nearby sites can offer a broader glimpse into Essex's rich and often spooky past.