Five Wells Prison

What to Bring to a Prison Visit

Visitors should bring valid identification and adhere to the facility’s regulations on what additional items may be brought into the visiting area.

Is There Parking at Five Wells Prison?

Yes, parking facilities are available, although the number of spaces may be limited.

A New Paradigm in Corrections

The £253 million “smart” super prison leverages Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) and digital tools to optimize the design, construction, and operations. Unlike traditional prisons, Five Wells doesn’t have bars on its windows, and cells are referred to as rooms.

Facilities and Activities

The prison offers a stylish and relaxed environment without compromising security. Equipped with around-the-clock surveillance, it provides a variety of amenities like gyms, snooker tables, and table tennis. Inmates can participate in 24 different workshops, ranging from engineering and catering to carpentry.

Prisoner Demographics

Five Wells is currently home to selected inmates, known as peer leaders, who are crucial to instilling the prison’s positive ethos. Over time, the prison will start admitting inmates from the general population, aiming to reach full capacity by the end of the year.

Vision for Rehabilitation

Sarah Guy, the prison’s head of activities, emphasizes that the goal of Five Wells is not just to hold inmates but to provide them with a “meaningful qualification” and a rehabilitative journey that will reduce reoffending rates.