Book a Prison Visit to Cardiff Prison: Overview

Cardiff Prison, situated in the heart of Cardiff, Wales, is a Category B facility managed by Her Majesty’s Prison Service. It primarily holds adult male offenders who are either on remand or have been convicted. The prison, with a capacity of around 800 inmates, has been serving the justice system since its establishment in the early 19th century. Over the years, Cardiff Prison has undergone several expansions and refurbishments, ensuring robust security and comprehensive rehabilitation programs for the inmates.

 

Book a Prison Visit to Cardiff Prison

To book a prison visit to Cardiff Prison, you can use the online booking system available on the GOV.UK website. Alternatively, you can book via email at socialvisits.cardiff@justice.gov.uk or by calling the prison directly at 029 2092 3327 during weekdays from 08:30 to 16:00. Make sure to have the name, date of birth, and prisoner number of the person you are visiting, along with the details of all visitors.

 

Visiting Times for Cardiff Prison

Cardiff Prison offers visiting times throughout the week, making it convenient for families and friends to maintain connections with their loved ones. The visiting times are as follows:

  • Monday to Friday:
    • 13:45 – 14:45
    • 15:00 – 16:00
  • Saturday:
    • 09:45 – 11:15
    • 13:50 – 15:20
  • Sunday:
    • 13:50 – 15:20

Please note that there are no visits on the first Wednesday of each month, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or Good Friday. On other bank holidays, a Saturday schedule is followed.

Parking Information and Directions to Cardiff Prison

By Car:

  • From M4 Westbound: Leave at J29 onto the A48M towards Cardiff. Exit onto the A4161 towards the docks, continuing through several traffic lights. Turn left after the Blind Institute into Fitzalan Road.
  • From M4 Eastbound: Leave at J33 onto the A48M towards Cardiff Airport. Exit onto the A4232, then follow the road over the flyover, turning right, then left twice.

By Train:

  • Cardiff Central Station: A major station with regular services, about 5-10 minutes by taxi.
  • Cardiff Queen Street Station: A minor station just a 5-minute walk from the prison.

By Bus:

Most bus routes into Cardiff city centre pass near the prison. Ask the driver for the nearest stop or call local bus services for more details.

Parking:

There is no designated visitor parking at Cardiff Prison, but a multi-storey car park (Knox Road Car Park, CF24 0EA) is located directly opposite. Blue Badge holders can make short stops on the road outside the prison.

What to Take and What to Expect at a Visit

When you book a prison visit to Cardiff Prison, it’s important to be well-prepared. Here’s what you need to know:

What to Take:

  • ID and Documentation: Bring a valid photo ID and proof of address.
  • Money: Small amounts of cash (preferably coins) for refreshments during the visit.
  • Items for Inmates: Approved items like court clothes, reading glasses, and underwear can be handed in during weekend visits. Ensure they are labeled with the inmate’s name and number.

Dress Code:

  • Avoid wearing hoodies, black or white tops, or sports tops with logos or inappropriate images. Dress modestly and comfortably.

What to Expect:

  • Security Checks: All visitors undergo security checks, including searches. Mobile phones and cigarettes must be left in lockers provided.
  • Visiting Area: Visitors can purchase refreshments from the tea bar within the visiting area.

FAQs

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

    • You can book online, via email, or by phone. Details are provided above.
  2. What are the visiting times for Cardiff Prison?

    • Visiting times are detailed above for weekdays and weekends.
  3. What items can I bring to a prison visit?

    • You can bring ID, proof of address, and small amounts of cash. Approved items for inmates must be labeled.
  4. Can I book a visit on behalf of someone else?

    • Yes, but you will need the required details of the prisoner and visitors.
  5. Is there parking available at Cardiff Prison?

    • There is no visitor parking, but a nearby multi-storey car park is available.
  6. What is the dress code for visiting Cardiff Prison?

    • Avoid hoodies, black/white tops, and sports tops with logos. Dress modestly.
  7. Are there specific visiting days at Cardiff Prison?

    • Visits are available Monday to Sunday with specific times detailed above.
  8. How do I get to Cardiff Prison by public transport?

    • Details for bus and train routes are provided above.
  9. What should I do if I need to cancel a visit?

    • Contact the prison’s booking line as soon as possible to inform them.
  10. Can I bring gifts for the prisoner?

    • Certain approved items can be brought during visits. Check with the prison for specific guidelines.

Summary and Conclusion

Booking a prison visit to Cardiff Prison is a straightforward process that helps maintain vital connections between inmates and their loved ones. With clear visiting times, accessible transport links, and detailed guidelines on what to bring and wear, visitors can ensure a smooth and meaningful visit. For more information, you can refer to the official GOV.UK website.

You can visit our other prison pages such as Booking a prison visit to Cloverhill Prison

Sources:

  1. GOV.UK
  2. DoingTime.co.uk
  3. Prison Guide
  4. Prison Info
  5. Cardiff Local Guide