Maidstone Prison: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the key details about Maidstone Prison, including its history, how to book a visit, contact information, and what to expect when visiting inmates.

Maidstone Prison, also known as HMP Maidstone, is a Category C men’s prison located in Maidstone, Kent, England. It primarily houses adult male offenders and focuses on rehabilitation and preparing inmates for eventual release.

Maidstone Prison, Telephone, Address and Contact information

Contact Details for Maidstone Prison

  • Address: Maidstone Prison, 36 County Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1UZ
  • Telephone: 01622 775 300
  • Email: [email protected]

How to Book a Visit to Maidstone Prison

You can book a visit to Maidstone Prison online, by telephone, or by email. Here’s how:

Booking a Visit to Maidstone Prison and Visiting Maidstone Prison

Visiting Hours at Maidstone Prison

Visits to Maidstone Prison are held on the following days and times:

  • Tuesday: 2pm to 4pm
  • Thursday: 2pm to 4pm
  • Saturday: 1:30pm to 3:30pm
  • Sunday: 1:30pm to 3:30pm

Visitors must book in at the Dinsmore Visitors Centre, located next to the main prison entrance, from 12:30pm. Note that anyone arriving after 2:15pm may not be admitted​​​​​​.

Parking Information

While Maidstone Prison does not have its own visitors’ car park, there are several nearby options:

  • On-Street Parking: Free for up to 2 hours (please check parking regulations in force at the time of your visit).
  • Paid Car Parks: Various long and short stay car parks are available within walking distance of the prison.
  • Disabled Parking: Disabled visitors can park directly outside the prison.

Maidstone Prison Overview

Established in 1819, Maidstone Prison has a long history as a correctional facility. It serves as a Category C prison, which indicates a lower level of security compared to maximum-security facilities. The emphasis at Maidstone is on rehabilitation, with various programs designed to help inmates reintegrate into society.

Facilities and Support at Maidstone Prison

Maidstone Prison offers various facilities and services to support both inmates and their visitors:

  • Accommodation: The prison consists of multiple residential units with individual and shared cells.
  • Education and Vocational Training: Inmates can access a range of educational programs and vocational training opportunities.
  • Healthcare: On-site healthcare unit with primary medical services, mental health support, and substance abuse programs.
  • Family Contact: The prison supports maintaining family relationships through visits and other forms of contact.
  • Resettlement Support: Pre-release planning and support to assist with accommodation, employment, and community-based services​​​​.

Conclusion

Maidstone Prison provides a structured environment aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration. Visitors play a crucial role in supporting inmates, and knowing the procedures for booking visits and the facilities available can help ensure a smooth experience.

FAQs

  1. How can I contact Maidstone Prison?

    • You can contact Maidstone Prison by telephone at 01622 775 300 or by email at [email protected].
  2. What are the visiting hours at Maidstone Prison?

    • Visiting hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 2pm to 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.
  3. How do I book a visit to Maidstone Prison?

    • Visits can be booked online, by telephone at 01622 775 621 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 12:30pm), or by email at [email protected].
  4. Where is Maidstone Prison located?

    • Maidstone Prison is located at 36 County Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1UZ.
  5. Is there parking available at Maidstone Prison?

    • While the prison does not have a dedicated visitors’ car park, there is on-street parking for up to 2 hours and several paid car parks nearby. Disabled visitors can park directly outside the prison.

For more detailed information on how to book your first prison visit, check out this guide on booking your first prison visit. Additionally, learn more about other prisons such as Magilligan Prison. Also read more from the official website.