Tyneham Village

St Mary's Church at Tyneham, seen over a stone churchyard wall — Photo: David Dixon

A deserted village evacuated in 1943 for wartime military training, now part of the Ministry of Defence's Lulworth Ranges. Visitors can see the ruined Row of terraced houses and the restored church and school, which hold exhibitions about the village and its former residents. A picnic area is set among restored farm outbuildings, and a mile-long walk leads on to Worbarrow Bay.

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Times, prices and access can change. Check before you travel.Last updated 30 Sept 2026.Source (where this listing came from, opens in a new tab)

Places nearby

Open all year
Isle of Purbeck Golf Club
Isle of Purbeck · Outdoor activities
Isle of Purbeck Golf Club offers two heathland courses with views over Poole Harbour, set within a nature reserve where rare plants and birds can be seen. The 9-hole Dene Course suits golfers of all abilities, including beginners, while the Purbeck Championship course challenges more experienced players. The clubhouse has a restaurant and pro shop.
Open all year
The Mowlem Theatre, Cinema and the Showbar
Swanage · Isle of Purbeck · Arts and culture
- Family-friendly
- Rainy day
A seafront venue in Swanage offering cinema screenings, live theatre, comedy, dance and music performances. School holiday matinees provide indoor entertainment for families, while a sea-view bar serves snacks and drinks including local beer and cider.
Open all year
Worbarrow Bay
Tyneham · Isle of Purbeck · Beaches
- Dog-friendly
A quiet shingle bay inside the Army's Lulworth Ranges, a mile's walk (about 20 minutes) from the car park at Tyneham village, and a lovely spot for a picnic. The ranges are usually open most weekends and school holidays: check GOV.UK or call 01929 404714 before you go, and keep to the paths marked with yellow posts. There are no lifeguards or toilets on the beach, and don't sit near the cliffs.

Coming up

Saturday 28 November
Swanage Christmas Lights Switch on
Festivals and shows
Swanage · Isle of Purbeck
- Family-friendly
A community celebration in Swanage marking the start of the countdown to Christmas, with the town's Christmas lights switched on for the season.

See everything in the Isle of Purbeck

Tyneham Village

More in the Isle of Purbeck

Places nearby

Isle of Purbeck Golf Club

The Mowlem Theatre, Cinema and the Showbar

Worbarrow Bay

Coming up

Swanage Christmas Lights Switch on