List of UK Prisons: Types, Categories and How to Find One

Last reviewed: June 2026.

How UK prisons are organised

Prisons in England and Wales are organised mainly by security category, which determines the kind of prisoner they hold and the level of security:

Local, training and resettlement prisons

Beyond the category, prisons have roles. Local prisons take people straight from court (including remand). Training prisons focus on work, education and offending-behaviour programmes for sentenced prisoners. Resettlement prisons prepare people for release, often allowing ROTL. Many prisoners move through several of these during a longer sentence as they progress.

Public and private prisons

The roughly 120 prisons in England and Wales are mostly run by HM Prison & Probation Service, with around 15 run under contract by private operators (Serco, Sodexo and G4S). Private prisons follow the same national Prison Rules and inspection regime, so a prisoner’s rights and the visiting process are the same either way.

Scotland and Northern Ireland

Scotland and Northern Ireland run their own prison services with their own establishments, so a Scottish or NI prison is not part of the England & Wales (HMPPS) system — visiting and contact go through the relevant service.

How to find a specific prison or prisoner

To locate someone, use the GOV.UK find-a-prisoner service. To check visiting, contact and category details for a particular prison, use that prison’s official page — we also have individual prison guides across the site.

Frequently asked questions

How many prisons are there in the UK?

Around 120 in England and Wales, plus separate prisons in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

What is the most common type of prison?

Category C training and resettlement prisons.

How do I find which prison someone is in?

Use the GOV.UK find-a-prisoner service.

How many prisons are privately run?

Around 15 of the prisons in England and Wales are run by private operators under contract.

Related guides and official sources

See prison categories, how to find a prisoner and prisons in London. Official: GOV.UK list of prisons.

UK Prison System: Understanding the Network and Finding Your Prison

The UK has over 180 prisons spread across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, each with different security levels, facilities, and purposes. If someone you know is in prison, or is about to be sentenced, understanding which prison they're in (or may be sent to) is crucial. This guide explains how the UK prison system is structured, how prisoners are allocated to specific prisons, and how to find the information you need using official tools.

How the UK Prison System Is Structured

The prison system in the UK is managed by different authorities depending on location.

England & Wales (Most of UK Prison Population):

• Managed by Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
• HMPPS is part of the UK Ministry of Justice
• Approximately 119 prisons across England and Wales
• Prisons are divided by security category (A, B, C, D — see below)
• Both public (government-run) and private prisons
• Some prisons specialise (e.g. women-only, young offenders, high security)

Scotland (Separate System):

• Managed by Scottish Prison Service (SPS)
• Approximately 14 prisons (smaller population than England & Wales)
• Slightly different approach to security categories and prison management
• Some facilities unique to Scotland (e.g. Edinburgh, Barlinnie)
• Scottish law differs from English law (affects sentencing and procedures)

Northern Ireland (Separate System):

• Managed by Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS)
• Approximately 3 prisons serving smaller population
• Different law and sentencing structure from England & Wales
• Main prison: HMP Maghaberry

Key Point: If someone is from Scotland or Northern Ireland, they are usually held in their respective jurisdiction's prisons. If transferred, family may need to account for different rules and facilities.

Public vs. Private Prisons: What's the Difference?

About 15-20% of UK prisoners are held in private prisons. Understanding the difference helps families know what to expect.

Public (Government-Run) Prisons:

• Owned and operated by the Ministry of Justice / HMPPS
• Staffed by civil service prison officers
• Majority of UK prisons are public
• Facilities and conditions vary widely by prison and security category
• Older prisons often have more crowded conditions
• Newer public prisons often have better facilities
• All public prisons must meet minimum standards

Private Prisons:

• Owned and operated by private companies (e.g. G4S, Sodexo, Serco)
• Contracted by the Ministry of Justice to hold specific prisoner populations
• Usually house lower-risk, lower-security category prisoners
• Examples: HMP Rye Hill (Serco), HMP Doncaster (Serco), HMP Forest Bank (Sodexo)
• Often have newer facilities (more recently built)
• Still subject to inspection and oversight by Independent Monitoring Boards
• Prisoners have same rights as in public prisons
• Visiting, contact procedures are the same as public prisons

Quality and Standards:

Private does not mean better or worse — quality depends on the individual prison's management. HM Inspectorate of Prisons inspects all prisons (public and private) and publishes reports on conditions. Some private prisons have excellent facilities; some public prisons are overcrowded and older. The prison's security category and age matter more than public/private status.

Prison Security Categories: What They Mean in Practice

UK prisons are classified by security level (Category A, B, C, D in England & Wales). Understanding this helps families understand visiting rules, contact restrictions, and what daily life is like.

Category A (Highest Security):

• Holds: Prisoners deemed "dangerous" or at high risk of escape
• Types of offences: Terrorism, murder, serious violence, organised crime, large-scale drug trafficking
• Facilities: Heavily fortified, maximum fencing, CCTV, armed response capability
• Daily life: Heavily restricted freedom of movement; cells locked; structured daily routines; limited association with other prisoners
• Visits: Visits usually allowed but subject to strict procedures; searching common; phone calls monitored/recorded
• Mail: More likely to be read/scrutinised (security checks); processing may take longer
• Work/Education: Limited work/education opportunities; must be carefully supervised
• Examples: HMP Belmarsh (London), HMP Wakefield (Yorkshire)
• Number: Approximately 8-10 Category A prisons in UK (smallest number)

Category B (High Security):

• Holds: Prisoners assessed as serious risk but not requiring maximum security
• Types of offences: Serious violence, rape, robbery, drugs trafficking, some firearms offences
• Facilities: High perimeter security; fencing; CCTV; regular searching
• Daily life: Moderate restriction; cells usually locked at night; some freedom of movement during day; work/education in controlled blocks
• Visits: Visits allowed; standard searching; may be time-limited
• Mail: Standard security screening (not necessarily read but x-rayed)
• Work/Education: More opportunities than Category A
• Examples: HMP Manchester, HMP Leicester, HMP Durham
• Number: Approximately 20-25 Category B prisons

Category C (Medium Security):

• Holds: Prisoners not likely to escape and presenting lower risk to public
• Types of offences: Burglary, theft, some violence, drugs offences, white-collar crime
• Facilities: Standard perimeter fencing; some CCTV; standard prisoner facilities
• Daily life: Significant freedom during day; wings may not be locked during day; access to work/education/gym; regular yard time
• Visits: More flexible visiting (fewer time restrictions); less searching; more relaxed environment
• Mail: Standard processing; lower security scrutiny than A/B
• Work/Education: Good opportunities; prisoners often engage in education programmes
• Examples: HMP Wandsworth, HMP Coldingley, HMP Swaleside
• Number: Approximately 50-60 Category C prisons (largest group)

Category D (Open Prisons):

• Holds: Low-risk, long-term prisoners nearing end of sentence; some short-term prisoners preparing for release
• Types of offences: Varying offence types but assessed as very low risk to public
• Facilities: No perimeter fencing; trust-based security; honour system
• Daily life: Maximum freedom; prisoners work/study in community; some allowed out on temporary licence; cells unlocked during day; resembles living in a secure community more than traditional prison
• Visits: Very flexible visiting; may include overnight visits; private visits rooms available
• Mail: Minimal security screening; quick processing
• Work/Education: Extensive opportunities; many work outside prison or attend external college
• Examples: HMP Leyhill, HMP Askham Grange, HMP East Sutton Park (women's)
• Number: Approximately 17 Category D prisons

Key Point: Category affects daily experience significantly. Visitors to Category A should expect searches and restrictions; visitors to Category D may have relaxed visits. Prisoners progress through categories during longer sentences (starting in higher security, moving to lower as release approaches).

Specialist and Dedicated Prisons

Some prisons specialise in particular prisoner groups or needs.

Young Offender Institutions (YOIs):

• Hold prisoners aged 15-20 (sometimes up to 21 in transition)
• Different approach to management (focus on rehabilitation and education)
• Examples: HMP/YOI Wetherby, HMP/YOI Cookham Wood
• Visiting rules may differ slightly (more flexible)
• Educational opportunities are emphasised

Female/Women-Only Prisons:

• Separate facilities for female prisoners throughout UK
• Examples: HMP Holloway (London), HMP Cornton Vale (Scotland)
• Fewer prisons overall than male estate (about 14 women's prisons)
• Different regime (focus on trauma, family contact, child arrangements)
• May hold both adults and young offenders

Remand Prisons:

• Hold prisoners awaiting trial (on remand)
• Usually located near courts
• Examples: HMP Pentonville (London), HMP Leeds
• Shorter-term placement (until trial/sentencing)
• More frequent court attendance may limit visiting hours

Immigration Removal Centres (IRCs):

• While not prisons, they hold foreign nationals pending deportation
• Different rules and conditions than prisons
• Treated separately from UK prison system

How Prisoners Are Allocated to Specific Prisons

The decision about which prison someone is sent to is based on several factors.

Initial Allocation (At Sentencing):

• Court that sentences assigns prisoner to initial prison (usually remand prison or nearest main prison)
• Consider location (nearness to family reduces stress and aids rehabilitation)
• Security category assessment determines whether Category A/B/C/D facility
• Offence type influences security level
• Criminal history considered (previous escapes, violence in custody)
• Sentence length considered (longer sentences = more security needed)
• Specialised needs considered (healthcare, mental health, disability)

After Sentencing (Prison Transfers):

• Prisoners may be moved from initial prison after weeks/months
• Reasons include: overcrowding, specialist needs, category reassessment, specialist programmes available elsewhere
• Transfer can happen without advance notice to family
• Must be notified via prisoner (they're informed of transfer)
• New location can be requested but not guaranteed

Category Progression:

• Longer-sentence prisoners progress down categories during sentence (A → B → C → D)
• Progression based on behaviour, parole board review, time served
• Category reduction typically happens every 2-4 years for long sentences
• Means prisoner moves to lower security facility (closer to release)
• Can also move up if behaviour deteriorates (rare)

Can Prisoners Request a Specific Prison?

• Can request transfer for family reasons (nearness to dependents, family support)
• Can request for Healthcare reasons (specialist treatment not available at current prison)
• Requests are considered but not guaranteed
• Must be made through prison governor's office
• Approval depends on availability and security considerations
• Process can take months

Why Prisoners Are Moved During Sentence

Understanding reasons helps families expect and manage prison transfers.

Common Reasons for Transfer:

• Overcrowding: If one prison is overcrowded, prisoners may be moved to relieve pressure
• Specialist programmes: Specific education, therapy, or rehabilitation programmes available at certain prisons
• Healthcare needs: Access to mental health, addiction support, medical care
• Category change: Progression to lower security category requires transfer to appropriate facility
• Safety: Non-association orders may require moves if co-offenders at same prison
• Sentence length review: Parole board may recommend different prison setting
• Misconduct: If behaviour is problematic, may be moved to higher security
• Vulnerability: If perceived as vulnerable, may be moved to safer facility with different prisoners

Distance Implications:

• Transfer can mean significant distance from family (prisoner may move from local prison to distant one)
• Visiting becomes harder/more expensive
• Phone contact still available (though monitored)
• Letters unaffected by location
• Request transfer back to original location or compromise location (if family moves)

Notice of Transfer:

• Prisoner is usually told morning of transfer (short notice)
• Family learns when prisoner calls or writes
• HMPPS website prisoner locator updated within hours
• Prison should confirm details to emergency contact if one is registered
• Some time to adjust visiting/contact arrangements

Using the GOV.UK Prisoner Finder Tool

The official way to find where a prisoner is located.

How to Access:

• Go to www.gov.uk/find-prisoner
• Free to use (no login required)
• Works for all prisoners held in HMPPS prisons (England & Wales)
• Does not work for Scotland or Northern Ireland prisoners (different systems)

What Information You Need:

• Prisoner's full name (first and surname)
• Date of birth (or approximate age/year)
• Prison location or town (optional, but helps narrow search)

What You Get Back:

• Exact current prison location
• Prisoner number (essential for writing letters, sending photos)
• Prison postcode and address
• Security category (A/B/C/D)
• Confirmation of prisoner name matches records

Limitations:

• Takes 24-48 hours to update after transfer (may show old location briefly)
• Does not show remand status (but prison information may indicate if it's a remand facility)
• Does not show early release dates or parole information (different system)
• Privacy reasons: search is limited (cannot search for unknown prisoners)

For Scotland/Northern Ireland:

• Scotland: Use Scottish Prison Service prisoner locator (available on SPS website)
• Northern Ireland: Use Northern Ireland Prison Service prisoner locator
• Different systems, different interfaces, but same information

Finding Prison Contact Information

Once you know which prison, you may need to contact them.

Types of Contact Needed:

• Visiting hours and booking visits
• Phone numbers for general enquiries
• Email for specific queries (mail, transfers, visitor queries)
• Prisoner account funds (topping up phone/canteen credit)
• Complaints about treatment or conditions

Where to Find This Information:

• HMPPS website: Each prison has dedicated page with address, phone, visiting details
• Direct phone number: Usually on prison website (main switchboard or visitor centre line)
• Email: Many prisons have generic email for enquiries
• Visit booking: Some use online system; others phone visitor centre
• Independent Monitoring Board (IMB): Prisons have IMB contact for complaints about treatment

Preparing for Your First Prison Visit

Once you've located the prison, you may want to visit. Here's what to prepare.

Before You Visit:

• Check visiting hours: Different prisons have different schedules (usually afternoons/weekends)
• Book visit in advance: Most prisons require pre-booking (call visitor centre line)
• Confirm visiting rules: Ask about dress codes, what can be brought in, searching procedures
• Register as visitor: First visit usually requires more information (ID check, address verification)
• Arrange transport: Many prisons are located far from town centres; plan travel time/costs
• Prepare prisoner number: Have it with you (prison staff verify identity)
• Check rules on items: Different prisons allow different items (phone credits, money for canteen)
• Expect searching: Security searches are routine (especially Category A/B prisons)

What to Expect During Your Visit:

• Arrive 10-15 minutes before booked time
• Sign in at visitor reception
• Security search (bag, coat, sometimes handheld metal detector)
• Escorted to visiting room (prison staff manage this)
• Usually 1-2 hours contact with prisoner
• Tables and chairs provided (contact rules vary by category — may be able to sit together or separated)
• Visits monitored (staff in room or observing from distance)
• Prisoner may not look exactly as you remember (weight change, injuries, tiredness common)
• Emotional impact on first visit is normal (mixed feelings of relief and sadness)

Category-Specific Visiting Differences:

• Category A: Visiting room usually has tables/chairs, staff present or visible; stricter security searching; may be time limits
• Category B/C: More relaxed visiting; less constant monitoring; usually can sit with prisoner at table
• Category D (Open): Most relaxed; may have tea/coffee, more privacy; visiting rooms comfortable; some allow external visits

Practical Tips:

• Bring prisoner number in writing (easier than remembering)
• Bring photo ID (required for visitor registration)
• Check dress code (avoid camouflage pattern, as it can be forbidden; no revealing clothing)
• Allow extra time if first visit (unfamiliar with location, security procedures take time)
• Be prepared for emotional reaction (seeing someone in prison is psychologically difficult)
• Plan what to talk about (sometimes silence after separation is normal)
• Bring small amount of cash (for prisoner canteen if prison allows)
• Don't bring prohibited items (check prison rules — can result in refused visit)

After Your Visit:

• Contact by letter or phone to follow up
• Use next visit to reinforce support
• Establish regular visiting pattern if possible
• Document any welfare concerns and report to prison if needed
• Share experience with family to prepare them for their visits

Understanding Visitor Restrictions

Not everyone can visit a prisoner.

Who Can Usually Visit:

• Family members
• Friends
• Partners/spouses
• Children (if permitted, with supervision)
• Legal representatives (solicitors, barristers)
• Religious advisors
• Support workers

Who May Be Restricted:

• Anyone with criminal record (may be rejected or limited)
• Witnesses in the prisoner's case (legal restriction)
• Victims of the prisoner's crime (if restraining order or safety concern)
• Anyone banned by prison security assessment (risk assessment)
• Anyone with outstanding warrants (police will be called)

If you're unsure whether you can visit, contact the prison visitor centre to ask.

Common Prison Transfer Scenarios

Understanding typical patterns helps families manage expectations.

Scenario 1: Long-Sentence Prisoner (10+ Years)

• Starts in Category B or C prison
• After 2-4 years, assessed for category reduction
• May move to lower category facility closer to family
• Near end of sentence, likely moves to Category D (open) prison
• Open prison may be further from family or closer, depending on availability
• Total of 2-4 prison moves over sentence is typical

Scenario 2: Medium-Sentence Prisoner (3-6 Years)

• Usually starts in Category C prison
• May remain at same prison entire sentence
• Final year, may be moved to Category D (open) for preparation for release
• 1-2 moves typical for this sentence length

Scenario 3: Remand Prisoner (Awaiting Trial)

• Starts at local remand prison (usually closest to court/home)
• May be moved if security category changes before trial
• After conviction, if sentenced to prison, may move to main prison
• Court location may not be where sentence is served

Key Contacts and Resources

Official Tools:

• Prisoner Locator: www.gov.uk/find-prisoner
• HMQ>PPS Website: www.justice.gov.uk (contains all prison information and contacts)
• Scottish Prison Service: www.sps.gov.uk
• Northern Ireland Prison Service: www.justice-ni.gov.uk

Support Organisations:

• Visiting support: Some charities help with visiting costs/arrangements
• Family support: Organisations like Action for Prisoners' Families provide information and support
• Legal advice: Law centres offer free information about prisoner rights
• Mental health support: Counselling services for families affected by imprisonment

Complaints and Concerns:

• Prison Governor's Office: Contact prison directly for complaints
• Independent Monitoring Board (IMB): Volunteer oversight body that investigates concerns
• Prisons Ombudsman: Independent complaints investigator ([email protected])
• Legal challenge: Solicitor can challenge unlawful treatment or decisions