Book a Prison Visit To Lewes Prison: Overview

Lewes Prison, located in Lewes, East Sussex, is a Category B local prison with a history dating back to 1853. Designed to house adult male offenders, the facility has a capacity of 742 inmates, accommodating both remand and sentenced prisoners. Over the years, the prison has undergone several expansions and improvements, including the addition of a healthcare suite and various wings dedicated to specific prisoner needs such as drug and alcohol support and vulnerable prisoner units.

 

How to Book a Prison Visit To Lewes Prison

Booking a prison visit to Lewes Prison is straightforward. You can book your visit online via the GOV.UK prison visits service or by calling the booking line at 01273 785271, available daily from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 4:30 pm. Ensure you book at least 24 hours in advance and have the necessary ID ready for the visit. Each visitor must be on the approved visitors list of the inmate they wish to see.

 

Visiting Times for Lewes Prison

Lewes Prison has specific visiting hours to accommodate visitors. The visiting times are as follows:

  • Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 9:30 am – 11:00 am
  • Monday to Sunday: 2:10 pm – 3:35 pm

Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit to allow for security checks and processing.

Parking Information and Directions to Lewes Prison

By Car: From London, take the A23, then follow the M23 and A27, finally joining the A275 where the prison will be on your left. It is well signposted. By Train: The nearest train station is Lewes, approximately a 25-minute walk from the prison. Taxis are available at the station. By Bus: Regular bus services run from Brighton to Lewes. Check the local bus timetables for more details.

Parking is limited at the prison, with spaces available for Blue Badge holders near the visitors’ centre. Metered parking is available on the surrounding roads.

What to Take with You to a Visit and What Happens at the Visit

When you book a prison visit to Lewes Prison, you need to be prepared for the procedures and requirements:

What to Take:

  • Identification: Valid ID such as a passport, driving license, or two forms of official ID (e.g., birth certificate, utility bill).
  • Money: Cash for purchasing items from the visitor centre.
  • Appropriate Clothing: Family-friendly attire (no revealing or offensive clothing).

During the Visit:

  • All visitors, including children, will undergo a pat-down search.
  • You may be required to store personal belongings in provided lockers.
  • Refreshments are not available during visits, so plan accordingly.
  • Follow the dress code and prison rules to avoid your visit being cancelled.

FAQs

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

    • You can book online through the GOV.UK service or call 01273 785271.
  2. What are the visiting times for Lewes Prison?

    • Visits are held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, and every afternoon from Monday to Sunday.
  3. What ID is required to visit Lewes Prison?

    • A passport, driving license, or two forms of official identification.
  4. Can I bring gifts or money to Lewes Prison?

    • No, you cannot bring gifts. Money must be sent via the online service.
  5. Is there parking available at Lewes Prison?

    • Limited parking is available for Blue Badge holders. Metered parking is available nearby.
  6. What can I expect during a prison visit?

    • You will undergo a security check and must follow the prison’s rules and dress code.
  7. Are refreshments available during the visit?

    • No, refreshments are not provided during visits.
  8. How do I get to Lewes Prison by public transport?

    • Lewes train station is a 25-minute walk, and buses run regularly from Brighton.
  9. What facilities are available at Lewes Prison?

    • The prison offers education, vocational training, healthcare, and family contact support.
  10. Can I visit without booking in advance?

    • No, all visits must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.

Summary and Conclusion

Booking a prison visit to Lewes Prison involves careful preparation and adherence to the prison’s guidelines. Ensure you have all necessary identification, book your visit in advance, and understand the visiting times and procedures to make your visit as smooth as possible. For more information, visit the GOV.UK prison visits page.

You can visit our other prison pages such as Book a Prison Visit To Littlehey Prison

Sources

  1. GOV.UK
  2. DoingTime
  3. Wikipedia
  4. Prison Info
  5. Prison Phone