Tyneham

Tyneham - The village that time forgot...

The tiny ghost village of Tyneham was requisitioned along with the surrounding Purbeck hills for army training just before Christmas in 1943. Villagers were assured that their homes would be returned to them after the war, but under pressure from the War Office these promises were broken and Tyneham village remains under MoD control to this day. 

The site, close to Lulworth, is now open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Many buildings have suffered significant damage from training exercises and shelling, although the church and school remain intact and have been preserved as museums. 

When you enter Tyneham school you will see the coat hooks with names of the children who used to attend remain, it's a captivating step back in time and really does show what life might have been like in a small rural school. The children who attended lived in a time well before digital entertainment. Their spare time was spent outdoors, enjoying nature, wild flowers and exploring the land around them. 

Tyneham village also offers lovely walks to the beautiful unspoilt coastline - look out for the footpath to reach Worbarrow Bay, it's a simple walk along the path, you'll soon see glimpses of the sea, Worbarrow Bay is a hidden cove only accessible by foot, you can also join the South West Coast path from here, and explore more of the Jurassic Coast. 

Tyneham is open most weekends and on other dates too, but this does vary so please check the latest opening times here.