Barlinnie Prison: Address, Telephone, Contact Info

Barlinnie Prison: Exploring Glasgow’s Oldest Correctional Facility

Standing as a formidable presence in Glasgow’s east end, Barlinnie Prison is Scotland’s largest and most storied prison. Known simply as “The Bar” to locals, this historic institution has been a cornerstone of the Scottish justice system for over a century. From its Victorian origins to its modern challenges, Barlinnie Prison holds a unique place in the UK’s prison landscape. This detailed guide offers everything you need to know, including its address, contact details, visiting procedures, transport options, and a glimpse into life behind its walls.

Overview of Barlinnie Prison

Barlinnie Prison, officially HMP Barlinnie, is a Category A and B male prison located in Riddrie, Glasgow. Opened in 1882, it is Scotland’s oldest operational prison, with a capacity of approximately 1,408 inmates, though it often operates near or above this limit. The prison houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to life sentences, and high-risk offenders requiring maximum security.

Managed by the Scottish Prison Service, Barlinnie is known for its tough reputation, housing some of Scotland’s most notorious criminals, such as serial killer Peter Tobin and gangland figure Paul Ferris. Its focus is on containment and rehabilitation, offering education, work programs, and addiction support, but it faces significant challenges with overcrowding, violence, and outdated facilities. Recent plans to replace Barlinnie with a modern facility, HMP Glasgow, by 2027 reflect its ongoing struggles to meet contemporary standards.

History of Barlinnie Prison

Barlinnie Prison’s history is deeply woven into Glasgow’s social fabric. Built between 1880 and 1882 to replace the overcrowded Duke Street Prison, it was designed by Major General Edmund du Cane to house 600 inmates in a radial layout typical of Victorian prisons. Its five main halls (A–E) and smaller units have since expanded to accommodate a much larger population.

The prison gained infamy in the 20th century for its harsh conditions and high-profile inmates. In the 1950s, it was the site of Scotland’s last executions, including that of serial killer Peter Manuel. The 1987 Barlinnie Special Unit experiment, which allowed inmates greater autonomy, was a bold but controversial attempt at reform, later inspiring prison art programs. Overcrowding became a persistent issue by the 2000s, with reports of “slopping out” (manual toilet emptying) until sanitation upgrades in 2018. A 2023 inspection criticized the prison’s aging infrastructure but praised staff resilience. Plans for HMP Glasgow signal a new chapter, but Barlinnie remains operational for now.

Barlinnie Prison Address

The current address for Barlinnie Prison is:

HMP Barlinnie
81 Lee Avenue
Riddrie, Glasgow, G33 2QX
United Kingdom

This address is verified through the Scottish Prison Service website. The prison is located 3 miles northeast of Glasgow city center, easily accessible via the M8 motorway.

Barlinnie Prison Telephone Number

To reach Barlinnie Prison, contact:

Telephone: +44 141 770 4000

Sourced from the Scottish Prison Service, this number connects to the main switchboard, operational Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For visitor bookings or specific inquiries, follow the automated menu or request assistance.

Barlinnie Prison Capacity

Barlinnie Prison has an official capacity of approximately 1,408 inmates, though it frequently exceeds this due to Scotland’s high incarceration rates. The facility includes five main halls, a segregation unit, and specialized areas for vulnerable prisoners. Recent Scottish Prison Service data notes ongoing efforts to manage overcrowding through transfers and early releases.

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

Barlinnie Prison is well-connected to Glasgow and beyond, with multiple transport options for visitors.

By Car

From Glasgow city center, take the A8/M8 east to Junction 11, then follow the A803 and Cumbernauld Road to Lee Avenue (10–15 minutes). From Edinburgh, take the M8 west (50 minutes). The prison is just off Cumbernauld Road, with clear signage.

Parking: Free on-site parking is available for visitors, including disabled spaces. The car park is near the visitor entrance but can fill quickly during peak hours, so arrive early.

By Train

The nearest station is Alexandra Parade, 1 mile away (5-minute taxi or 20-minute walk). ScotRail services from Glasgow Queen Street (5 minutes) or Edinburgh Waverley (1 hour) stop here. Alternatively, Glasgow Central is 3 miles away, with frequent taxis (£8–£12). Check schedules on the ScotRail website.

By Bus

From Glasgow city center, the Number 38 or 38A bus (First Glasgow) stops on Cumbernauld Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10–15 minutes, taking 15 minutes from Buchanan Bus Station. The Number 8 bus also serves nearby routes. Plan your trip via the First Glasgow website.

How to Book a Visit to Barlinnie Prison

Visiting Barlinnie Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance. Here’s how:

Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 141 770 4000 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM). Provide the inmate’s name, prison number, and preferred visit date.
Online Booking: Use the Scottish Prison Service’s visitor booking portal. Register and submit your request up to 14 days in advance.
Identification: Adults (18+) need photo ID (e.g., passport, driving license). Children require a birth certificate. Arrive 20 minutes early for security checks, including bag searches and drug detection.
Special Needs: Request accessible facilities or support for children when booking. The visitor center includes a waiting area and play space.

Confirmation is sent via email or phone. Cancel or reschedule at least 48 hours prior to avoid restrictions.

Barlinnie Prison Visiting Times

Visiting hours, verified via the Scottish Prison Service, are:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (social visits).
Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).
Legal Visits: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (by appointment).

Visits last approximately 1 hour. The visitor center offers refreshments, but check for schedule changes during holidays or operational issues. COVID-19 measures, such as masks, may apply.

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

Life at Barlinnie Prison is intense, shaped by its diverse population and aging infrastructure. Inmates are housed in five main halls, with single and double cells often cramped due to overcrowding. Daily routines include education (e.g., literacy, numeracy), work (e.g., laundry, kitchen duties), and addiction programs, though access is limited by staff shortages. Facilities include a gym, library, and chapel, but time out of cells is often restricted.

A 2023 inspection reported that only 40% of inmates felt safe, with violence, gang activity, and drug use (particularly Spice) prevalent. Self-harm incidents are high, and mental health support is strained, with long waits for counseling. Positive aspects include family contact initiatives and vocational training, but the prison’s reputation for toughness persists. Inmates describe a survivalist atmosphere, where respect and alliances are key, though supportive staff can make a difference in quieter units.

Frequently Asked Questions About Barlinnie Prison

Who is housed at Barlinnie Prison?

Barlinnie holds adult male prisoners, including remand, short-term, and life-sentence inmates, in Category A and B conditions.

How can I send items to an inmate?

Limited items like clothing or books require approval. Contact +44 141 770 4000 for guidelines. Cash and electronics are banned.

Is Barlinnie Prison accessible?

Yes, it offers ramps, accessible toilets, and parking. Request accommodations when booking.

What programs are available?

Inmates access education, work, and addiction support, including literacy, carpentry, and counseling, though availability varies.

How safe is Barlinnie Prison?

Safety is a concern, with high violence and drug use