Bullingdon Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Oxfordshire’s Modern Gaol

Nestled in the quiet village of Arncott, near Bicester, Bullingdon Prison is a key component of the UK’s prison system, serving the South East with a focus on rehabilitation and security. As a Category B/C prison, HMP Bullingdon combines modern facilities with the challenges of managing a diverse inmate population. Whether you’re arranging a visit to support a loved one, exploring its history, or seeking insight into life inside, this guide provides a detailed overview of Bullingdon Prison’s address, telephone number, visiting procedures, transport links, and the daily realities for inmates, offering a vital resource for families and researchers.

Overview of Bullingdon Prison

Bullingdon Prison, officially HMP Bullingdon, is a Category B/C male prison located in Arncott, Oxfordshire. Opened in 1992, it is one of England’s newer prisons, with a capacity of approximately 1,114 inmates. The facility houses adult male prisoners, primarily those serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as burglary, assault, or drug-related crimes, as well as some remand prisoners. As a training and resettlement prison, it serves courts in Oxfordshire and surrounding areas.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Bullingdon emphasizes rehabilitation through education, vocational training, and work programmes, leveraging modern facilities like workshops and classrooms. While no globally famous inmates have been publicly associated with Bullingdon, it serves a diverse population from the South East. Recent inspections praise its rehabilitation efforts but highlight challenges with drug use, violence, and staff shortages, positioning Bullingdon as a forward-thinking yet complex facility in the prison estate.

History of Bullingdon Prison

Bullingdon Prison opened in June 1992, built on a former Ministry of Defence site near Bicester to address prison overcrowding in the South East. Named after the nearby Bullingdon Hundred, a historic administrative area, the prison was designed with modern security and rehabilitation in mind, featuring single and double cells, educational facilities, and workshops. Its construction was part of a 1990s push to modernise the UK’s prison system, moving away from the Victorian designs of older gaols.

Since its opening, Bullingdon has evolved into a key training prison, focusing on preparing inmates for release. Early inspections in the 1990s noted its modern facilities but raised concerns about staff training. Upgrades in 2008 and 2016 expanded its workshops and improved security, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report praised Bullingdon’s education programmes but flagged ongoing issues with drug use and violence. Its relatively recent history reflects a commitment to rehabilitation, tempered by the challenges of managing a large, diverse population.

Bullingdon Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a semi-rural area, 4 miles east of Bicester, accessible via the A41 and close to Oxford.

Bullingdon Prison Telephone Number

To contact Bullingdon Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1869 353100

Sourced from GOV.UK, this number connects to the main switchboard, available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For visitor bookings or specific queries, follow the prompts or request relevant extensions.

Bullingdon Prison Capacity

Bullingdon Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,114 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several houseblocks, with some accessibility adaptations. Its large capacity helps alleviate pressure on regional prisons, though overcrowding has been reported during peak periods.

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

Bullingdon Prison’s location near Bicester offers reasonable access by car, train, or bus, with connections to Oxford, London, and Birmingham.

By Car

From Bicester, take the A41 east to Arncott, then follow Patrick Haugh Road (10 minutes). From Oxford, take the A34 north, then the A41 (20 minutes). From London, follow the M40 to Junction 9, then the A41 (1 hour). The prison is signposted off Patrick Haugh Road.

Parking: Free on-site parking is available for visitors, including disabled spaces. The car park is adjacent to the visitor centre, with sufficient spaces even during busy times.

By Train

The nearest station is Bicester Village, 3 miles away (10-minute taxi or 15-minute bus ride). Chiltern Railways and Great Western Railway operate services from London Marylebone (50 minutes), Oxford (15 minutes), and Birmingham (1 hour). Taxis from the station cost £8–£12. Check schedules on the Chiltern Railways website.

By Bus

From Bicester town centre or Bicester Village Station, the Number S5 bus (Stagecoach) stops near Arncott, a 10-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 15 minutes from Bicester. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Bullingdon Prison

Visiting Bullingdon Prison requires advance booking and compliance with security protocols. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1869 353100 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM). Provide the inmate’s name, prison number, and desired visit date.
2. Online Booking: Use the GOV.UK prison visit booking service. Register and submit your request up to 14 days in advance.
3. Identification: Adults (18+) must present photo ID (e.g., passport, driving licence). Children need a birth certificate. Arrive 15 minutes early for security checks, including searches and drug detection dogs.
4. Special Requirements: Request accessible facilities or child support when booking. The visitor centre offers a waiting area and basic facilities.

Confirmation is sent via email or phone. Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours prior to avoid restrictions.

Bullingdon Prison Visiting Times

Visiting hours, as confirmed by GOV.UK, are:

• Wednesday, Friday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).
• Saturday, Sunday: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).
• Legal Visits: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (by appointment).

Visits last approximately 1 hour, with longer sessions for legal meetings. The visitor centre is modern and functional, with refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Bullingdon Prison is structured to promote rehabilitation, leveraging its modern facilities. Inmates live in single or double cells across houseblocks, with access to education (e.g., English, maths, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and work programmes (e.g., recycling, maintenance). Facilities include a gym, library, and outdoor sports areas, with 6–8 hours of daily out-of-cell time when staffing allows.

A 2023 inspection found that 60% of inmates felt safe, but drug use, particularly cannabis and Spice, and violence remain challenges, with over 200 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is improving but strained, with self-harm rates above average. Positive aspects include a strong focus on employability, with links to local businesses, and family contact programmes. Inmates describe a purposeful environment, though tensions arise from overcrowding and inconsistent programme access, with education offering a lifeline for those engaged.

Recent News About Bullingdon Prison

Bullingdon Prison has been in the news in 2025 for both progress and challenges:

• Employment Programme Success: In March 2025, Bullingdon’s training programme placed 25 inmates in construction jobs post-release. Oxford Mail
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Oxford
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates highlight Bullingdon’s focus on rehabilitation amid operational hurdles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bullingdon Prison

Who is held at Bullingdon Prison?

Bullingdon houses adult male prisoners, primarily serving medium to long-term sentences or on remand, in Category B/C conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common question. At Bullingdon, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1869 353100 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Bullingdon Prison accessible?

Yes, it offers ramps, accessible toilets, and parking. Request accommodations when booking to ensure a smooth visit.

What programmes are available for inmates?

Inmates access education, vocational training, and work programmes, including IT, construction, and employability skills, though availability varies.

How safe is Bullingdon Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 60% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use and violence are concerns, but security and training programmes are improving.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we’re committed to helping families stay connected with inmates, and Bullingdon Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 1,114 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in employment programmes alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Bullingdon is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Wednesday, Friday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1869 353100 enable loved ones to provide support, which can inspire change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Patrick Haugh Road address or connect with someone at Bullingdon Prison, fostering hope for a brighter future. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.