IT’S the ‘lost’ Dorset village that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Tyneham, located between Kimmeridge and East Lulworth, is a ‘ghost’ village and former civil parish.
Here we take a look at the site, its history and why it is so intriguing.
When was it abandoned and why?
Tyneham village and surrounding hamlets were evacuated by the Army in December 1943 during the Second World War.
More than 200 residents packed up their belongings and left the village.
It was cleared to allow allied forces to prepare for the D-Day landings.
Despite promises by Winston Churchill, the residents never returned to the village and surrounding areas.
What can I find there?
You can still see some of the original buildings - The Row was a row of four terraced houses, numbered from the higher end nearest the church.
Both the restored church and school buildings are still intact and have exhibitions about the village and villagers.
At Tyneham Farm, some of the outbuildings have been restored and there is a picnic area to enjoy.
What else is nearby?
A one-mile walk from the village leads to Worbarrow Bay - part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Who owns it?
The entire 3,003-acre site on the Tyneham estate was owned by the Bond family for more than 300 years.
Even the Bond family who occupied Tyneham House left their homes for the last time and never returned.
Tyneham village, Worbarrow Bay and Lulworth Ranges are managed by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and therefore access is sometimes limited. Details on opening times can be found below.
If you're walking to Worbarrow Bay, visitors must keep to the paths marked with yellow posts at all times.
How do I get there?
The village is accessible when the Lulworth Ranges are open to the public. The Lulworth Ranges are military firing ranges.
When is it open?
Tyneham and the Lulworth Range walks are open most weekends and all main public holidays.
It will be open each day until August 31 and then over the Christmas period between December 17, 2022, and January 2, 2023.
It is closed the following weekends:
September 24 and 25, October 8 and 9 and November 5 and 6.
How do I get there?
If travelling by car, take the A35, then A351 towards Swanage. Just after Wareham turn right and follow signs to Creech/Kimmeridge, then Tyneham. The turning to Tyneham village and Worbarrow Bay is on the left.
For visitors travelling by train, the nearest railway station is Wool.
How do I get in?
Tyneham village gate permits vehicle access. It is opened at 9am when no military activity is taking place and closed at dusk each day.
The Tyneham School and Tyneham Church exhibitions are open from 10am until 4pm on non-firing days.
The gates to the walks are opened around 4.30pm on Friday and closed at 8am on Monday (when only open at weekends).
How much does entry cost?
Entry is free.
Can I take my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome at the village and Worbarrow Bay.
Are there disabled facilities?
Disabled facilities can be found at Tyneham and the site is accessible for wheelchair users. There are also toilets for disabled visitors.
How can I get more information?
For general information, call 01929 404714 or visit https://tynehamopc.org.uk/visiting-tyneham/opening-times/
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