Nestled in the heart of England lies Imber, a village frozen in time for 82 years. In 1943, during World War II, the residents of Imber were evacuated to allow the British Army to use the area for training exercises in preparation for the fight against the Nazis. What was meant to be temporary quickly became permanent, and no one has lived in Imber since.
The village’s empty houses, church, and streets stand as eerie reminders of the past, untouched by modern development. Imber has become a place where history feels tangible, as though the lives once lived there are paused in a wartime moment. Although access to the village is highly restricted, occasional open days allow the public to witness this unique glimpse into wartime Britain.
Imber’s story is a poignant testament to the sacrifices made on the home front during World War II. The village remains under the control of the Ministry of Defence, ensuring it stays preserved and out of reach, a ghostly heritage site dedicated to the nation’s efforts against Nazi Germany.