Addiewell Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Scotland’s Private Prison

Nestled in the quiet village of Addiewell in West Lothian, Addiewell Prison stands as Scotland’s only privately operated prison, managed by Sodexo Justice Services on behalf of the Scottish Prison Service. Since its opening in 2008, this Category B facility has played a unique role in the UK’s correctional system, focusing on rehabilitation through education and skills training. In this guide, we’ll explore the prison’s history, contact information, visiting procedures, transport links, and what life is like for inmates, offering a detailed resource for families, researchers, and curious readers alike.

Overview of Addiewell Prison

Addiewell Prison, officially known as HMP Addiewell, is a modern male prison designed to house adult offenders, primarily those serving short to medium-term sentences. Opened in December 2008, it was built under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI), a controversial model that has drawn scrutiny for prioritizing profits over inmate welfare. The prison’s design emphasizes learning and rehabilitation, earning it the nickname “the learning prison.” With a capacity of approximately 800 inmates, it caters to a diverse population, excluding women and young offenders.

The facility is located near West Calder, about 20 miles west of Edinburgh, and serves as a key part of Scotland’s prison estate. Unlike traditional public prisons, Addiewell’s private management by Sodexo introduces unique operational practices, such as an electronic kiosk system for inmates to manage meals, activities, and finances. While praised for its innovative approach, the prison has faced criticism for staffing shortages, safety concerns, and high rates of violence, as highlighted in recent inspections.

Notable inmates are less publicized compared to high-security prisons like Barlinnie, but Addiewell has housed individuals involved in serious crimes, often on remand or serving sentences for offenses like assault or drug-related crimes. Its focus on rehabilitation aims to reduce reoffending, though challenges like drug use and mental health issues persist.

History of Addiewell Prison

The story of Addiewell Prison begins in the early 2000s, when Scotland’s growing prison population prompted the government to explore private-sector solutions. In 2006, the Labour-Liberal Democrat coalition signed a PFI contract with Sodexo to build and operate a new facility in West Lothian. Construction began in 2007, and the prison welcomed its first inmates in December 2008, making it one of Scotland’s newest correctional facilities at the time.

Designed as a “learning prison,” Addiewell aimed to break the cycle of reoffending by offering inmates access to education, vocational training, and employability programs. The prison’s modern infrastructure, including single and double cells, was a departure from older facilities like Barlinnie. However, its private operation sparked debate, with critics arguing that profit-driven models compromise care and safety. Over the years, inspections have praised Addiewell’s inmate care and technology but raised concerns about staffing levels, violence, and drug issues.

Key milestones include the introduction of the electronic kiosk system in 2015, which streamlined inmate services, and a series of inspections (2015, 2019, 2023) that highlighted both strengths and ongoing challenges. Despite controversies, Addiewell remains a cornerstone of Scotland’s prison system, balancing rehabilitation with security.

Addiewell Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Addiewell Prison is:

This address is verified through official sources, including the Scottish Prison Service website. The prison is situated in a semi-rural area, accessible via public transport and car, with clear signage from Station Road.

Addiewell Prison Telephone Number

To contact Addiewell Prison, use the following phone number:

Telephone: +44 1506 874500

This number is sourced from the Scottish Prison Service and is the main line for general inquiries, including visitor bookings and family support. For specific departments (e.g., visits or legal queries), you may be directed to extensions after calling. The line is typically staffed during business hours, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Addiewell Prison Capacity

Addiewell Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 800 inmates, though this can fluctuate based on operational needs and refurbishments. Designed to house adult male prisoners, the facility includes single and double cells, with some areas adapted for inmates with mobility issues. The prison’s capacity is slightly below its original design of 816 due to ongoing maintenance and safety adjustments, as noted in recent Scottish Prison Service reports.

How to Get to Addiewell Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Reaching Addiewell Prison is straightforward, whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or train. The prison’s location in West Lothian offers decent connectivity to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and surrounding areas.

By Car

Addiewell Prison is located off the A71, a major road connecting Edinburgh and Livingston. From Edinburgh, take the A71 west toward Livingston, then follow signs for Addiewell. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. From Glasgow, take the M8 east to Junction 3, then follow the A899 and A71 to Addiewell (approximately 45 minutes).

Parking: The prison offers free on-site parking for visitors, with designated spaces for disabled access. Arrive early, as spaces can fill up during peak visiting hours. The car park is a short walk from the visitor entrance, and signage is clear.

By Train

The nearest train station is Addiewell Station, a 10-minute walk from the prison (approximately 737 meters). ScotRail operates regular services from Edinburgh Waverley (25 minutes) and Glasgow Central (40 minutes). From the station, exit onto Station Road and follow the path north to the prison. Taxis are available but limited, so book in advance if needed.

Check train times on the ScotRail website for the latest schedules.

By Bus

Several bus services stop near Addiewell Prison. The closest stop is on Station Road, about 670 meters from the entrance. Lothian Buses and First Bus operate routes from Livingston and West Calder. Key routes include:

• X27: Edinburgh to Livingston, stopping at West Calder.
• 36: Livingston to Addiewell village.

Plan your journey using the Moovit app or Lothian Buses website for real-time timetables. Walking from the bus stop to the prison takes about 9 minutes.

How to Book a Visit to Addiewell Prison

Visiting Addiewell Prison requires advance booking, and all visitors must comply with strict security protocols. Here’s how to arrange a visit:

1. Contact the Prison: Call the visitor booking line at +44 1506 874500. The booking office is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Have the prisoner’s name, prison number, and your preferred visit date ready.
2. Online Booking: As of 2025, Addiewell is transitioning to an online booking system via the Scottish Prison Service. Check the SPS website for updates on availability.
3. Identification: All visitors (18+) must present government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driving license). Children need a birth certificate or red book. Arrive 15 minutes early for security checks.
4. Special Requirements: If you have mobility concerns, contact the prison in advance to arrange accessible facilities.

Bookings can be made up to 14 days in advance, and you’ll receive a confirmation email or phone call. Cancellations or changes should be made at least 48 hours prior to the visit.

Addiewell Prison Visiting Times

Visiting times at Addiewell Prison are designed to accommodate families and legal visitors. The latest schedule, confirmed via the Scottish Prison Service, is as follows:

• Monday to Friday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (social visits), 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (legal visits).
• Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).

Each visit lasts approximately 1 hour, though legal visits may be extended. Sessions are subject to change during holidays or operational issues, so confirm with the prison before traveling. Visitors must adhere to COVID-19 protocols, such as wearing masks if required, and no physical contact is permitted during visits.

Life at Addiewell Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

For inmates, Addiewell Prison offers a mix of opportunities and challenges. The prison’s “learning prison” ethos provides access to education, including literacy courses, IT training, and vocational workshops (e.g., carpentry, painting). The electronic kiosk system allows inmates to manage daily tasks independently, fostering a sense of responsibility. Recreational facilities include a gym, library, and outdoor areas, though access can be limited during staffing shortages.

However, recent reports paint a troubling picture. A 2023 inspection by HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland found that only 29% of inmates felt safe, with 40% reporting abuse or assault by staff. Drug use, particularly “pink cocaine” and Spice, is a growing issue, with eight inmates hospitalized in late 2024 after overdoses. Self-harm incidents have soared, reaching nearly 600 in under four years, and the prison recorded 40 deaths in 2023, including a high-profile case of a 22-year-old dying alone while awaiting mental health support.

Inmates describe a tense atmosphere, exacerbated by inexperienced staff and overcrowding. Positive aspects, like family contact programs and respectful staff-inmate relationships in some units, are overshadowed by safety concerns. The prison’s improvement plan, launched in 2023, aims to address these issues, but progress is slow.

Recent News About Addiewell Prison

Addiewell Prison has been in the spotlight for several troubling incidents in 2025:

• Prosecution Over COVID Death: In April 2025, the Lord Advocate launched a prosecution against Addiewell for alleged failures in managing the medical care of Calum Inglis, a 34-year-old inmate who died of COVID-19 in October 2021. The case has raised questions about healthcare standards in private prisons. BBC News
• Self-Harm Crisis: The Ferret reported in February 2025 that self-harm incidents reached nearly 600 in under four years, prompting urgent calls for improved mental health support. The Ferret
• Drug Overdoses: In April 2025, eight inmates were hospitalized after taking “pink cocaine,” highlighting the prison’s ongoing struggle with illicit substances. Inside Time
• Financial Controversy: The Ferret revealed in February 2025 that Addiewell Prison Limited paid £3 million in dividends to shareholders despite safety concerns, drawing criticism for prioritizing profits. The prison also paid £2.7 million in penalties to the Scottish Prison Service for failing performance targets. The Ferret

These incidents underscore the challenges facing Addiewell, though Sodexo has pledged to implement reforms, including increased staffing and safety measures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Addiewell Prison

What type of prisoners does Addiewell Prison hold?

Addiewell Prison houses adult male offenders, including those on remand and serving short to medium-term sentences. It does not accommodate women or young offenders.

How can I send money to an inmate at Addiewell Prison?

Money can be sent via the Scottish Prison Service’s online payment system or by postal order. Contact the prison at +44 1506 874500 for instructions. Cash and personal checks are not accepted.