What Is Belmarsh Prison Really Like?

HMP Belmarsh has a reputation that precedes it. Located in Thamesmead, southeast London, it’s one of the most well-known high-security prisons in the UK. You’ll often hear it referred to in the media, usually linked to high-profile cases or serious criminal trials. But what’s it actually like inside? Beyond the headlines, Belmarsh is a fully functioning prison – with its own routines, inmates, and day-to-day reality.

Is Belmarsh a Category A Prison?

Yes – Belmarsh is a designated Category A prison. That means it holds men considered to pose the most risk to the public or national security if they were to escape. It’s one of only a handful of Category A prisons in England and Wales, and it’s specifically built to handle that level of threat.

The prison is managed with extremely tight security. Movements are monitored closely. Surveillance is constant. There are reinforced walls, secured gates, and several layers of access control. But like any other prison, it also runs education programmes, workshops, healthcare, and religious services.

Who Is Held at Belmarsh?

Over the years, Belmarsh has housed a wide range of inmates – from terrorism suspects and organised crime figures to high-profile individuals involved in political or media-related cases. However, not everyone in Belmarsh is convicted. The prison also holds men on remand, waiting for their court dates. Some are simply awaiting trial on serious charges and haven't yet been found guilty.

The prison’s high-profile reputation comes largely from a handful of headline cases. But for most of the inmates, life is routine – strict, structured, and repetitive.

What’s Daily Life Like?

The daily routine in Belmarsh is similar to other high-security prisons. Inmates are woken early, given time for breakfast and basic hygiene, followed by activities depending on their status and security clearance. Some may attend education classes or prison jobs, while others remain in their cells for much of the day, particularly if they’re deemed high risk or under segregation.

Meals are provided at set times, and association – time spent outside the cell – is allowed for eligible prisoners. Exercise in the yard is part of the routine, although it’s monitored closely. Most interactions are brief and supervised. There’s very little freedom, which is by design in a Category A facility.

Security and Facilities

Belmarsh is equipped with the sort of security you’d expect from one of the UK’s highest-security jails. Full-body scanners, CCTV, strict visitor checks, and regular cell inspections are part of the routine. There’s also a High Security Unit (HSU) within the prison that holds prisoners requiring even more intense supervision.

The prison also has healthcare facilities, a chapel, a gym, and areas for legal consultations. But access to these depends on the prisoner’s risk level and behaviour.

Public Perception vs Reality

Because of its association with terrorism cases and famous inmates, Belmarsh is often painted as Britain’s version of Guantanamo Bay. While that’s clearly an exaggeration, it does reflect the strict nature of the prison. The focus here is on control, containment, and security – far more so than in lower-category jails.

That said, it still operates as a prison with structured services – education, rehab support, legal rights – but under much closer scrutiny and with far less flexibility.

Can You Visit Belmarsh?

Yes – visits are allowed but follow strict rules. All visitors must be approved in advance and bring photo ID. The booking system is managed online or by phone, and the visitor centre is separate from the main prison for security checks.

Visits may take place behind screens depending on the prisoner's regime. Conversation is monitored, and physical contact may be restricted or not permitted at all, depending on the circumstances.

Final Thoughts

Belmarsh is, in many ways, exactly what you’d expect from a top-tier security prison. It’s strict, controlled, and unforgiving. But behind the headlines and harsh exterior is a system designed to manage high-risk individuals safely, while still delivering the basics of a prison regime – food, structure, medical care, and limited rehabilitation opportunities.

To explore other Category A prisons or get a clearer picture of how the UK prison system works, visit our Prison Guide homepage.