Book a Prison Visit to Belmarsh Prison

Belmarsh Prison, located in Thamesmead, South East London, is a high-security Category A facility known for housing inmates convicted of severe offences, including terrorism-related charges. Established in 1991, Belmarsh is significant as the first male prison built in London since Wormwood Scrubs in 1874. It serves as a local prison for South East London and includes a high-security unit within its premises.

 

How to Book a Prison Visit to Belmarsh Prison

Booking a visit to Belmarsh Prison can be done via phone or email. You can call 0208-331-4768 or email belmarshV@justice.gov.uk. When emailing, ensure you include the prisoner’s name and date of birth in the subject line, along with two possible dates for the visit, your full name, address, date of birth, and your relationship to the inmate. Up to three adults and three children under ten are allowed per visit.

 

What are the Visiting Times for Belmarsh Prison?

Belmarsh Prison has specific visiting times for different categories of prisoners:

  • Mainstream Prisoners:

    • Tuesday: 14:00 – 15:00
    • Wednesday: 14:00 – 15:00
    • Thursday: 9:15 – 10:15, 14:00 – 15:00
    • Friday: 9:15 – 10:15, 14:00 – 15:00
    • Saturday: 14:00 – 15:00
    • Sunday: 14:00 – 15:00
  • Vulnerable Prisoners:

    • Tuesday: 15:30 – 16:30
    • Wednesday: 15:30 – 16:30
    • Thursday: 15:30 – 16:30
    • Friday: 15:30 – 16:30
    • Saturday: 15:30 – 16:30
    • Sunday: 15:30 – 16:30
  • High Security Unit Prisoners:

    • Tuesday: 14:30 – 15:30
    • Wednesday: 9:15 – 10:15, 14:30 – 15:30
    • Thursday: 14:30 – 15:30
    • Friday: 14:30 – 15:30
    • Saturday: 9:30 – 10:30, 14:30 – 15:30
    • Sunday: 14:30 – 15:30

Parking Information and Directions to Belmarsh Prison

Belmarsh Prison is located at Western Way, Thamesmead, London SE28 0EB. There are several ways to get to the prison:

  • By Car: From the M25 Dartford Bridge/Tunnel, take the first slip road immediately after the tolls. Follow the signs to Belmarsh Prison.
  • By Train: The nearest stations are Woolwich Arsenal and Plumstead. From Woolwich Arsenal, you can take the 244 or 380 bus directly to the prison. Alternatively, it’s a 15-minute walk from Plumstead station.
  • By Bus: Buses 244 and 380 stop near the prison, directly outside the exit from Woolwich Arsenal station.

Parking at the prison is limited, so public transport is recommended. There is a visitor centre run by Spurgeons, where you can store belongings in lockers (£1 deposit required) and get refreshments.

How to Book a Prison Visit to Belmarsh Prison – What to Take and What to Expect

To book a prison visit to Belmarsh Prison, ensure you have valid photo ID and proof of address. Acceptable IDs include a current British passport, driving license, or other government-issued photo ID. Visitors’ biometric data (fingerprints and facial photos) will be taken on the first visit for security purposes.

What to Bring:

  • Photo ID and proof of address
  • £15 maximum in cash for refreshments
  • Prescription medication (if necessary, with prescription)

What to Wear:

  • Smart, family-friendly attire
  • Avoid ripped clothing, hoodies, hats, scarves, bandanas, football shirts, stiletto heels, and revealing clothing

During the visit, you will go through a security check, and there are specific rules to follow to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved.

FAQs

  1. How do I book a prison visit to Belmarsh Prison?

  2. What are the visiting times for Belmarsh Prison?

    • Visiting times vary by prisoner category, generally between 9:15 AM and 4:30 PM from Tuesday to Sunday.
  3. Where is Belmarsh Prison located?

    • Belmarsh Prison is located at Western Way, Thamesmead, London SE28 0EB.
  4. What should I bring to a prison visit?

    • Bring a valid photo ID, proof of address, and up to £15 in cash for refreshments.
  5. What is the dress code for visiting Belmarsh Prison?

    • Dress smartly and avoid any clothing that may be deemed inappropriate, such as hoodies, ripped jeans, and football shirts.
  6. Can I bring children to visit Belmarsh Prison?

    • Yes, up to three children under ten years old are allowed per visit.
  7. How do I get to Belmarsh Prison by public transport?

    • The nearest train stations are Woolwich Arsenal and Plumstead. Buses 244 and 380 provide direct routes from Woolwich Arsenal.
  8. Is there parking available at Belmarsh Prison?

    • Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended.
  9. How long are the visits at Belmarsh Prison?

    • Visits typically last for one hour.
  10. Can I send money to a prisoner at Belmarsh?

    • Yes, you can send money using an online service. Physical cash, bank transfers, or cheques are not accepted.

Summary and Conclusion

Booking a prison visit to Belmarsh Prison involves a straightforward process of scheduling and preparing for security measures. Ensure you have the necessary documents and follow the dress code for a smooth visit.

For more information, you can visit our other prison pages such as Book a Prison Visit to Aylesbury Prison

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