Imber, a 'ghost' village in Wiltshire evacuated in 1943 to support the war effort against the Nazis, remains under Ministry of Defence (MoD) control and opens to the public for only 12 days each year. The village was cleared with 47 days' notice to its 150 residents, who were promised they could return after World War Two, but more than eight decades later, access is still restricted.
Public open days include Easter, one summer day, a carol service before Christmas, and a period from 29 December to 2 January. During these times, visitors can explore the Grade I-listed St Giles Church and the former inn, though many original homes have been lost to the elements or military exercises.
Keeper Neil Skelton, 77, from Wilton, has volunteered at the church for years after retiring from the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT). He noted that the village attracts thousands of visitors during open days, with up to 4,000 on a summer bus day. Entry is free, with donations supporting the CCT's upkeep of the church.
Skelton, who first visited Imber at age 16, described the village as a peaceful place despite its deserted atmosphere. He said, 'When there is nobody about it is lovely... it's a lovely peaceful place to be.' The training area surrounding the village is vast, roughly the size of the Isle of Wight.
The church raises between £15,000 and £20,000 annually from refreshments and souvenirs. Skelton added that volunteers work well together, and he enjoys meeting visitors who come out of historical interest. Most of the year, only wildlife remains in the village, which is fenced off and inaccessible to the public.
