People Still Refuse to Live In English Village That 'Died' in 1943 During World War II

Eight decades have passed since World War II, but one British village remains under its spell. Once a bustling place full of vitality, Tyneham in Dorset, England, is now a grave of memories where no one resides except for their memories, according to the LADBible. The quaint village once boasted a population of over 200 people, who had to vanish overnight to make way for military operations in 1943. The authorities promised them that once the D-day went by, they could return home. The promise remains unfulfilled as the village to date remains unavailable for settlement. 

Often labeled as "the village that died for England" during World War II, initially, the military intended to retain Tyneham only for a short while. For some reason, the arrangement was extended, and now the takeover is seemingly permanent. At the time of the takeover, promises were made to villagers, ensuring they could return to their homes once the situation became normal. The inhabitants allegedly left a note for the authorities, which read, "Please treat the church and houses with care; we have given up our homes where many of us have lived for generations to help with the war and keep men free.....We shall return one day and thank you for treating the village kindly."

It turned out that the situation never became "normal" for the residents, as they never returned to their abode. The 2001 census revealed that the town's population was 0, and 13 years later, the parish was abolished. Nobody knows how the rural community moved on after this massive change. "Today, with the village itself and its surrounding meadows, woodlands, coves, bays and cliffs still in the hands of the Ministry of Defence, Tyneham has been allowed to decay and keep its ghosts hidden," Rob Crossan, who visited Tyneham in 2024, shared, per Condé Nast Traveller. 

According to reports, civilians moved out of the village on December 19, 1943, stated Historic UK. Currently, the place is part of the Lulworth firing ranges, an establishment operated by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). However, sometimes the village welcomes visitors when the range is not being used by officials. The exact timings for a tour are updated on this website. 

The authorities have maintained the buildings that stood when the village was bustling with inhabitants. Officials have ensured that visitors receive accurate information about the historical background of the structures they come across while walking through Tyneham. Right at the town's entrance, visitors would find a 1929 K1 Mark 236 telephone box. Officials have maintained the box in a way that still gives people a glimpse of the World War II years. The appliance is secured with authentic fittings and covered in wartime notices.  

The place has several original buildings from the 1940s, according to Visit Dorset. A group of four terraced houses called "The Row," along with the village church and school, have remained untouched. These establishments have exhibitions that highlight the villagers who once used them. In Tyneham Farm, certain buildings have undergone restoration, and there is a picnic area where tourists can enjoy themselves. The village leads to Worbarrow Bay, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. If people decide to visit Worbarrow Bay, they are advised to use the paths marked with yellow posts by officials to avoid interference with military operations. Tyneham village's gates are locked by the authorities at dusk every evening.