Tyneham, England's lost village

In 1943 the gunnery range east of Lulworth Cove, Dorset was expanded in response to the development of more powerful weapons and the longer distances required for firing. This expansion resulted in the eviction of the inhabitants of the village of Tyneham, and two smaller settlements at Povington and Worbarrow, as well as numerous farms.

The inhabitants left just before Christmas and were promised that they could return to their homes after the war had ended. This promise was never kept and to this day the area is still under military control. Most of the dwellings of the now deserted village have deteriorated over the years and today lie in ruins, including an Elizabethan manor house. The church, school and a public telephone box however have been preserved and kept looking much as they did in 1943.

Public access to Tyneham and the surrounding footpaths is permitted during most weekends of the year.