UK's 'ghost town' where only the church survived
The church sustained less damage compared to other parts of the village and its shell remains today
Dubbed Dorsets 'lost village', the historic Tyneham has remained trapped in time since being evacuated during the Second World War.
The entire population was forced to leave their homes in December 1943 as the army requisitioned the land for training. Despite the war's end in 1945, the ousted villagers were never allowed to return, with the village remaining a military possession.
While leaving the village, its inhabitants left a note on the church door, 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 win the war and keep men free. We shall return one day and thank you for treating the village kindly."
Efforts by former residents to reclaim their homes have always been denied, leaving Tyneham frozen in time.
Today, 80 years later, Tyneham forms part of the Armoured Fighting Vehicles Gunnery School but opens its doors to the public during weekends. Visitors are welcomed by the haunting presence of buildings preserved from the past.
One notable street, 'The Row', showcases the skeletal remains of once-occupied houses, accompanied by storyboards that narrate the lives of past residents.
Amongst the relics, tourists can also find the iconic phone box, restored in 2012 after nature had claimed it during the intervening years.
The village school, a historical landmark of Tyneham prior to its evacuation, still stands and often hosts exhibitions. While the church sustained less damage compared to other parts of the village, thanks to the army's maintenance efforts.
However, by the 1990s, it was in desperate need of restoration, which was carried out in the early 2000s and completed in 2003.
Tyneham Farm has also seen significant restoration. The once-ruined barns and outbuildings have been transformed into exhibition spaces, while the exterior serves as a picnic area for visitors.
