Tyneham Village in Dorset

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Dorset's Jurassic Coast, Tyneham Village is a poignant relic of a bygone era. Visiting Tyneham is like stepping back in time.. The charming stone cottages, school and church provide a haunting yet evocative glimpse into the lives of the villagers who were forced to abandon their homes during World War II.

The village of Tyneham sits frozen in time, surrounded by idyllic Dorset countryside. It really does capture the enduring spirit of a once-thriving community while serving as a living testament to the sacrifices made in the name of national defence.

Where is Tyneham?

Tyneham Village is located in the county of Dorset, England. It is situated within the Isle of Purbeck, a picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes and historic sites.

The village is nestled in a valley near the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its geological significance and natural beauty like the nearby Flower's Barrow.

Tyneham's coordinates are approximately 50.628°N latitude and 2.162°W longitude. Follow this link for directions to Tyneham if you are already in the local area.

Dorset's Forgotten Village - A Brief History

Tyneham Village stands as one of the Dorset's most intriguing and evocative tourist destinations. With a rich history that spans generations, Tyneham's story is both a testament to the once thriving community and a sombre reminder of the passage of time.

Once a vibrant and bustling community, Tyneham was a hub of activity before the ravages of war altered its fate. The village, now standing deserted for over seven decades, was witness to a bygone era of simplicity and rural charm.

The evacuation during World War 2 was a pivotal moment in Tyneham village history. Prior to this, Tyneham thrived as an idyllic countryside village.

Key Buildings Within The Village

The village boasted its own array of essential institutions, including a quaint church, a functional school, a peaceful rectory, numerous farms, and a collection of charming cottages.

Dominating the village's architectural landscape was the imposing Tyneham House, also referred to as the Great House, an emblem of elegance and stature.

North East View of Tyneham House 1943

Tyneham Village Life

Life within Tyneham was characterized by a simple and idyllic existence. In an era where modern conveniences were scarce, the absence of electricity and running water did little to diminish the village's allure.

The villagers found contentment in the unhurried rhythm of life, shielded from the complexities and challenges of the outside world.

The Tyneham Documentary

The most detailed account of life in Tyneham is from the Tyneham Remembered Documentary. It contains many interviews with the people who lived in the village. It's definitely recommended for anyone with an interest in Tyneham village and its history.

This Documentary can be purchased directly from this very website, either as a physical DVD or digital download which you can download instantly and enjoy on unlimited smart devices.

By purchasing a copy of Tyneham Remembered, you help maintain the upkeep of this website.

Why Did Tyneham's Inhabitants Leave?

The story behind the evacuation of Tyneham Village is a poignant chapter in British history. In 1943, during the height of World War II, the British military requisitioned the village and the surrounding area for training purposes.

Due to its proximity to the Lulworth firing ranges, the government decided to claim Tyneham village and much of its surrounding land as a place to train the Allied forces.

The villagers were told they must temporarily leave their homes for the greater good.

This decision was made as part of the preparation for critical military operations, including the D-Day landings.

The residents of Tyneham were faced with a difficult and heart-wrenching choice. The military needed their homes and lands to create a realistic training environment for troops preparing for the challenges of warfare.

As a result, the villagers were given a mere 28 days' notice to evacuate their homes, leaving behind the lives they had built over generations.

The promise was that they would be able to return once the war was over. However, the war extended beyond its initial projections, and the village and its surroundings became an essential training ground for various military exercises. As a consequence, the return of the villagers never materialized.

In December 1943, the last church service was held in the village's St. Mary's Church, and the villagers left their homes, believing they would be back soon.

They didn't know it at the time, but once the war was over, they would never be allowed to return to their homes. As they packed up their belongings and left, they pinned a note to the door of the village church which read:

The Note Left on The Church Door

Did The Villagers Ever Return?

Until now, despite a number of high-profile campaigns, the original residents have never been allowed to return to their homes.

The reality, however, was that Tyneham became trapped in time, frozen in its wartime state. The houses, school, church, and other buildings were preserved, but the villagers were never able to reclaim their community.

Today, Tyneham Village stands as a living memorial to its former residents and a reminder of the sacrifices made during times of conflict.

The decision to leave was borne out of the necessity of supporting the war effort, but it left behind a void that can still be felt among those who visit the village and learn about its history.

Sadly, nearly early all the evacuees have now passed away. Their last thoughts and memories were captured on the Tyneham Remembered documentary. Because of this, it remains unlikely that the government will release the village.

The village of Tyneham has remained as if frozen in time for the last 80 years.

When Tyneham village is open, it's a lovely place to visit and provides a glimpse into the past of how life used to be in this quaint little village. Please check the opening dates before visiting.