A Brief History of Imber Village
Imber is a deserted village in Wiltshire, on the Salisbury Plain Military Training Area. Imber was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. Prior to World War Two, it was like any other typical British village. It was an isolated village, with most of the residents working on the farms in and around the village.
In the late 1800s the M.O.D began buying up parts of Salisbury Plain which it used for training. In the 1920s they then purchased the farms that were the main employment for the residents of Imber, essentially forcing the residents to accept the money offered by the war office for their homes. By the time the Second World War started, the M.O.D owned all but a few of the buildings in Imber.
Following a meeting where they were told they had 47 days to leave, the village of Imber was fully evacuated in 1943. This was to allow the allied forces, predominantly US forces to use the area for training. Although the villagers were told that they would be able to return to their homes after the war, this never happened.
Present Day
It has remained owned by the Ministry of Defence since 1914, and it was used for urban military training during The Troubles in the 70s. Today the Ministry of Defence still owns Imber, and it is still used for military training. However, the village is open to the public on a limited number of days each year.
When to visit
Imber is only open to the public on a limited number of days each year. Currently it is only open to the public from 7th to 10th April 2024 and Imber Bus Day on 19th August 2024.
How to get to Imber
Imber is located in the middle of the Ministry of Defence training area on Salisbury plain. The only way for the general public to access the village is via a fleet of Routemaster double decker-buses that leave from Warminster. More details about the open days can be found here.
What’s a day at Imber like?
Once you arrive in Imber, you are free to explore the village at your own pace. There are a number of things to see, including:
- St Giles’ Church: This 13th-century church is the only building in the village that is still in regular use. It is open to the public on open days, and there is a cafe serving refreshments.
- The school: The former village school is now a museum, with exhibits on the history of Imber and its former residents.
- The war memorial: This memorial commemorates the villagers who served in the First and Second World Wars.
- The abandoned cottages and farmhouses: These buildings are a reminder of the village’s former life. They are in varying states of repair, but some of them still retain their original features.
- Imber Court: the manor house that used to host various celebrations for the residents of the village.
Imber is a unique and fascinating village, with a rich history and a beautiful setting on Salisbury Plain. It is a place where you can step back in time and experience the peace and tranquility of a traditional English village, while also learning about its wartime past.
Whether you are interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Imber has something to offer everyone. With its charming cottages, winding streets, and stunning views, it is a truly special place.
