How to Visit a Prisoner in the UK
Last reviewed: June 2026
A visit can be the most important hour of someone’s week — for the person inside and for the family outside. But the process can feel daunting the first time, and a small mistake (wrong ID, an unbooked slot) can mean a wasted journey. This guide walks through it step by step so your first visit goes smoothly.
Step 1: Get on the approved visitor list
You cannot simply turn up. The prisoner has to add you to their list of approved visitors from inside, usually by giving your name, date of birth and address to staff. Until that is done, no booking can be made. If you are not sure whether you have been added, ask the prisoner to confirm during a phone call or letter.
Step 2: Book the visit
Once you are approved, you book a slot. For most prisons you can use the GOV.UK visit someone in prison service online; alternatively you can phone the prison’s booking line, listed on its GOV.UK page. You will need the prisoner’s details — name, date of birth and prison number — and the names, dates of birth and addresses of everyone coming. Book early, as popular slots fill up. Our companion guide on how to book a prison visit covers the booking screens in more detail.
Step 3: On the day
Arrive in good time — late arrivals may be turned away. Every adult visitor needs valid photo ID. You will pass through security, similar to an airport, and most personal belongings go into a locker. Inside the visits hall, you sit at an allocated table; staff supervise throughout. Be guided by the officers, keep contact appropriate, and follow any instructions about movement around the room.
| Visitor type | Typical visit entitlement |
|---|---|
| Convicted prisoner (statutory minimum) | At least one visit every four weeks |
| Convicted prisoner (earned privileges) | More visits depending on IEP level and behaviour |
| Remand prisoner (awaiting trial) | More frequent visits, often several per week |
These are general patterns; exact entitlements depend on the prison, the regime and the category of establishment, so always check the specific prison’s GOV.UK page.
What you can and can’t bring
Keep it simple: bring your ID and a small amount of cash for the visitors’ café or lockers, and leave almost everything else at home or in the car. Phones are not allowed into the visits hall. There are sensible allowances for essentials like baby items. Our detailed guide on what you can take when visiting a prisoner covers this fully.
A note for first-time visitors
It is normal to feel nervous. Many prisons have a visitors’ centre run by a charity where you can wait, ask questions and get a cup of tea before going in — staff there are used to first-timers and are a great source of reassurance. Prison Guide was founded by Daniel Hockey, who served his own sentence and writes about the experience from both sides of the visits hall; his story is a reminder that the person you are visiting will value the effort enormously, even if the setting feels strange.
- Turning up without being on the approved list. You must be added by the prisoner first.
- Forgetting photo ID. Every adult needs valid identification, or entry can be refused.
- Not booking. Almost all prisons require a booked slot — you cannot just arrive.
- Bringing prohibited items. Phones and many everyday objects are not allowed inside.
- Arriving late. Latecomers may lose the visit entirely.
Frequently asked questions
Can children visit?
Yes, children can usually visit with an approved adult. Tell the prison how many children are coming when you book, and bring ID where required.
How long does a visit last?
Often around an hour, though it varies by prison. See our guide on how long a prison visit lasts.
What ID is accepted?
Usually a passport or photo driving licence; check the prison’s page for its accepted list before you travel.
What if I can’t travel or afford the journey?
The Assisted Prison Visits Scheme may help eligible visitors on a low income with travel costs — see GOV.UK’s help with prison visits.
