Home › Guides

Visiting someone in prison in England and Wales

This is a general guide. Rules differ between prisons, so always check the GOV.UK page for the prison you are visiting, which you can find from our prison list.

1. Book your visit

You usually need to book in advance. Have the person's full name, prison number and date of birth ready. You can book through GOV.UK (gov.uk/prison-visits) or by phoning the prison. How much notice you need varies by prison, from about 24 hours to a couple of working days, and some prisons only allow booking up to two weeks ahead.

If you struggle to get through, the Prisoners' Families Helpline offers advice on 0808 808 2003.

2. Bring the right ID

You need photographic ID, at least for a first visit. Each prison's GOV.UK page links to the list of acceptable ID. Check it before you travel.

3. Arrive early

For a first visit you may need to be registered, so allow extra time. Many prisons ask visitors to arrive well before the visit starts. Late arrivals may be refused.

4. What you can take in

There are strict controls on what you can bring. Expect lockers for belongings, and limits on money for food and drink from the visits shop. You cannot hand property directly to prisoners. Ask the prison for its current list before you go.

5. During the visit

Everyone is searched, and some prisons use drug-detection dogs. A visit can be refused or cut short if the rules are broken. If you have access needs, such as wheelchair access, tell the prison when you book.

6. Help with costs

You may be able to get help with the cost of travelling to a prison. See gov.uk/help-with-prison-visits.

7. If you can't visit

Most prisons also offer secure video calls, voicemail, an "Email a Prisoner" service and letters. Details are on each prison's GOV.UK page.

Sources: GOV.UK prison pages and Prison Reform Trust advice. Last checked October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.