Book a Prison Visit to Rochester Prison
Book a prison visit to Rochester Prison, a facility with a rich history and a commitment to reformative practices. Established in 1874 near the Medway River in Kent, Rochester Prison has evolved from a former service point to a modern institution. It now serves as a prison and young offender institution for men over 18, holding convicts with sentences of up to seven years. Its capacity stands at 658 inmates, indicating its significant role in the UK’s correctional system.
Booking and Planning Your Visit
To visit an inmate at Rochester, you must be on the visitor list and book your visit at least two working days in advance. Visits can be arranged either online or by phone. The seating arrangement allows up to three visitors over 16, plus three children under that age, for each inmate. Note that children may have to sit on your lap and at least one visitor must be 18 or older. There may be limits on the number of visits an inmate can have, which you can check directly with the prison.
Visiting times to Rochester prison
Visiting Hours
- Family and Friends Visits: These can be booked by calling 0300 060 6513. Visiting hours are:
- Monday to Thursday: 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM
- Friday: 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM and 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM
- Saturday: 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM and 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM
- Sunday: 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM
- Legal Visits: Available Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 12 PM.
Identification and Security Procedures
All visitors aged 16 or older must provide valid identification to enter the prison. Acceptable forms of ID include a passport, photographic driving license, citizen card, or a senior citizens bus pass. Visitors will undergo a rub-down search, and this includes children. Security dogs may also be used for searches. Adherence to the prison dress code is mandatory.
HMP Rochester Visiting Information
Directions and Parking
Rochester Prison is easily accessible:
- By Train: The nearest station is Rochester. From there, you can take a taxi or Arriva bus routes 145 or 142. Walking from the station takes approximately 45 minutes.
- Parking: The prison offers a free visitors car park, including a designated area for disabled visitors.
Address and Contact Details
- Address: HMP/YOI Rochester, 1 Fort Road, Rochester, Kent, ME1 3QS
- Telephone: 01634 803 100.
Additional Information
- Be punctual: Visitors are required to arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled visit. Late arrivals may not be permitted entry.
- Booking Line Operating Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
For more detailed information and to ensure the accuracy of these details, visit prisonguide.co.uk and gov.uk.