HMP Durham: Category, Visits & What to Expect
Last reviewed: July 2026
If someone you know has just been taken to HMP Durham, this page explains what the prison is, how to visit, and what to expect — in clear terms, with links to the official sources.
About HMP Durham
HMP Durham is a historic prison in the centre of Durham dating from the early nineteenth century. It is a Category B local prison, and since 2017 has operated primarily as a reception prison for the north of England. That means it receives a high volume of men straight from the courts — many on remand or at the very start of a sentence — before some are moved on to other establishments. The first few days in a reception prison are often the most stressful and disorientating part of the whole process, which is why early contact from family can be so steadying.
| Detail | HMP Durham |
|---|---|
| Category | Category B local / reception (adult male) |
| Location | Durham, County Durham, North East England |
| Opened | Early 1800s (historic site) |
| Main role | Reception prison for the north of England (since 2017) |
| Approx. population | Around 940–960 men (2024–25); close to operational capacity |
| Managed by | His Majesty’s Prison Service |
What is HMP Durham like inside?
HMP Durham runs at a fast pace because of its reception role, with a high turnover of new arrivals. An Independent Review of Progress in January 2025, following a full inspection in 2024, found little improvement in the time prisoners spent out of their cells, and rising drug use and violence. Inspectors also flagged the importance of proper health screening for the many vulnerable men arriving straight from court. Leadership changes had made steady progress harder to achieve.
For families, the practical takeaways are simple: the first days are the hardest, so send a letter early, get on the visitor list as soon as you can, and use the official channels to put a little money on the prisoner’s account for essentials. If you are worried about someone’s wellbeing on arrival, you can contact the prison and ask that it be flagged.
- “Durham is a high-security prison.” It is a Category B local/reception prison, not a Category A high-security jail.
- “He’ll stay at Durham for his whole sentence.” As a reception prison, many men are moved on to other prisons after an initial period.
- “I can visit the day he arrives.” You need to be on the visitor list and book a slot first — visits are not immediate.
- “There’s no point writing so early.” An early letter can be one of the most reassuring things a newly arrived prisoner receives.
Visiting HMP Durham
Almost all social visits to HMP Durham must be booked in advance. The person in prison first has to send you a visiting order (VO) or add you to their contact list, and you then book a slot. The simplest route is the government’s free Visit someone in prison service, which lets approved visitors request a date online. You will need the prisoner’s number and date of birth, and the details of everyone coming with you.
When you arrive, allow extra time. You will pass through security screening, which can include a search, a metal detector and sometimes a drugs-detection dog. Bring valid photo ID for every adult visitor — a passport or driving licence is safest. Lockers are provided for phones and personal belongings, which cannot be taken into the visits hall. Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times. Full, prison-specific arrangements — including current visiting days and times — are on the official GOV.UK page for HMP Durham, which is kept up to date.
Sending money, letters and property
You can send money to someone at HMP Durham using the free GOV.UK Send money to a prisoner service, which is the fastest and most reliable method. Money is usually credited within a few working days and the prisoner can spend it from their private-cash account on canteen items.
Letters and cards can be posted to the prisoner at the prison’s address, marked with their name and prison number. There are limits on what can be enclosed — avoid anything that could be seen as contraband, and do not send valuables. Some property can be handed in or posted in only with prior agreement, so check the current rules on the official GOV.UK page before sending anything other than letters.
Arriving at a busy reception prison is one of the most disorientating moments of a sentence. Our founder Daniel Hockey went through reception himself and writes about it in The Secret Prisoner; you can read about his experience here.
Frequently asked questions
What category is HMP Durham?
It is a Category B local prison that also serves as a reception prison for the north of England.
Will my relative be moved from Durham?
Quite possibly. Reception prisons hold many men only for an initial period before transferring them elsewhere.
How do I book a visit to HMP Durham?
Use the GOV.UK “Visit someone in prison” service once the prisoner has added you to their visitor list.
Does HMP Durham hold women?
No. Durham holds adult men. It historically held women many years ago, but now operates as a male reception prison.
Official sources and further reading
For official details always check GOV.UK: Durham Prison. Inspection reports are published by HM Inspectorate of Prisons. See also our guides to prison visits and sending money to a prisoner, and support resources from the Prison Reform Trust.
Prison Guide was founded by Daniel Hockey, who served a custodial sentence — from HMP Wandsworth through to open conditions at HMP Ford — and wrote The Secret Prisoner (2021). Read more about Daniel.
