Cardiff Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Wales’ Historic Gaol

Located in the bustling heart of Cardiff, Cardiff Prison is a historic pillar of the Welsh justice system, standing proudly in the capital city. Known locally as HMP Cardiff, this Category B prison blends Victorian heritage with modern rehabilitation efforts, serving as a key facility for male offenders. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its storied past, or curious about life behind its walls, this guide provides an in-depth exploration of Cardiff Prison’s address, telephone number, visiting procedures, transport links, and the daily experiences of its inmates, offering a vital resource for families and researchers.

Overview of Cardiff Prison

Cardiff Prison, officially HMP Cardiff, is a Category B male prison situated in Adamsdown, Cardiff. Established in 1832, it is one of Wales’ oldest operational prisons, with a capacity of approximately 820 inmates. The facility primarily houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to medium-term sentences, or awaiting transfer to other prisons. As a local prison, it serves the courts of Cardiff and South Wales, processing a diverse and transient population.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Cardiff Prison focuses on basic education, vocational training, and resettlement programmes, though its aging infrastructure poses challenges. The prison has housed notable inmates, such as Jeffrey Gafoor, convicted in 2003 for the murder of Lynette White, and has been linked to high-profile cases in Wales. Recent inspections highlight progress in inmate welfare but note issues with overcrowding, violence, and drug use, making Cardiff Prison a complex blend of tradition and reform.

History of Cardiff Prison

Cardiff Prison’s history dates back to 1832, when it was built as the Glamorgan County Gaol to serve the growing industrial population of South Wales. Designed by architect John Marriott, its Victorian radial layout, with cell blocks radiating from a central hub, was typical of the era’s focus on discipline and surveillance. Initially housing men, women, and juveniles, it became a male-only facility by the late 19th century, reflecting Cardiff’s urban expansion.

Key moments include its role in the 1910 execution of John Edmunds, one of Wales’ last hangings, and its use as a military detention centre during World War II. The prison faced criticism in the 1990s for poor conditions, leading to refurbishments in 2005 and 2018 that added educational spaces and improved sanitation. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report noted improvements in staff-inmate relations but flagged concerns about drug smuggling and outdated facilities. Cardiff Prison’s long history mirrors the evolution of incarceration in Wales, balancing its Victorian roots with modern demands.

Cardiff Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is centrally located, 1 mile east of Cardiff city centre, accessible via the A4161 and close to major transport hubs.

Cardiff Prison Telephone Number

To contact Cardiff Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 29 2092 3100

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.

Cardiff Prison Capacity

Cardiff Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 820 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several wings, with limited accessibility adaptations due to its historic design. Overcrowding is a persistent issue, with the prison often operating at or above capacity, as noted in recent reports.

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

Cardiff Prison’s central location in Adamsdown offers excellent connectivity to Cardiff city centre, Swansea, and beyond.

By Car

From Cardiff city centre, take the A4161 (Newport Road) east to Knox Road (5–10 minutes). From Swansea, follow the M4 east to Junction 33, then the A4232 and A4161 (50 minutes). From Bristol, take the M4 west to Junction 24, then the A48 and A4161 (45 minutes). The prison is signposted off Knox Road.

Parking: Limited on-street parking is available on Knox Road, with pay-and-display spaces nearby. The nearest car park is at Knox Road Car Park (2-minute walk, £1–£3 for 2 hours). Disabled parking is scarce, so plan ahead.

By Train

The nearest station is Cardiff Queen Street, 0.5 miles away (10-minute walk or 5-minute taxi, £5–£7). Transport for Wales and Great Western Railway operate services from Swansea (1 hour), London Paddington (2 hours), and Bristol (40 minutes). Alternatively, Cardiff Central (1 mile) offers wider connections. Check schedules on the Transport for Wales website.

By Bus

From Cardiff city centre, the Number 44 or 45 bus (Cardiff Bus) stops on Newport Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10 minutes, taking 10 minutes from St Mary Street. Plan your journey using the Cardiff Bus website.

How to Book a Visit to Cardiff Prison

Visiting Cardiff Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 29 2092 3100 (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 with your details and the inmate’s information to schedule a visit.
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: Notify staff of accessibility needs or child support when booking. The visitor centre offers a waiting area and basic facilities.

Bookings can be made up to 14 days in advance, with confirmation via email or phone. Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours prior to avoid restrictions.

Cardiff Prison Visiting Times

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

• Tuesday, Thursday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (social visits).
• Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 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. The visitor centre is basic but functional, with limited refreshments. Check for holiday schedule changes, and note that COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks) may apply.

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

Life at Cardiff Prison is fast-paced, reflecting its role as a local prison with a high turnover of inmates. Housed in single or double cells, many of which are cramped and dated, inmates follow a routine of education (e.g., literacy, numeracy), work (e.g., cleaning, workshops), and basic resettlement programmes. Facilities include a gym, library, and chapel, but time out of cells is often limited to 4–6 hours daily due to staffing constraints.

A 2023 inspection reported that 50% of inmates felt safe, with violence and drug use, particularly cannabis and Spice, posing challenges. Self-harm rates are above average, with mental health support stretched thin. Positive aspects include a peer mentoring programme and family contact initiatives, which help new arrivals adjust. Inmates describe a chaotic environment where quick adaptation is key, but those engaged in education or work find some stability, though the prison’s aging infrastructure adds to the strain.

Recent News About Cardiff Prison

Cardiff Prison has been in the news in 2025 for operational challenges and improvements:

• Resettlement Programme Success: In March 2025, Cardiff’s employment programme placed 20 inmates in jobs post-release, earning local praise. Wales Online
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Wales
• Overcrowding Concerns: A January 2025 inspection noted the prison at 107% capacity, urging infrastructure upgrades. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates reflect Cardiff’s efforts to balance security and rehabilitation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cardiff Prison

Who is held at Cardiff Prison?

Cardiff Prison houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to medium-term sentences, or awaiting transfer.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Cardiff, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 29 2092 3100 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Cardiff Prison accessible?

Accessibility is limited due to the historic building, but ground-floor access and support can be arranged. Contact staff when booking to discuss needs.

What programmes are available for inmates?

Inmates can access education, work, and resettlement programmes, including literacy, maintenance, and pre-release support, though availability varies.

How safe is Cardiff Prison?

Safety is a challenge, with violence and drug use reported in 2023. Recent security measures and mentoring programmes aim to improve conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we’re dedicated to helping families maintain vital connections with inmates, and Cardiff Prison’s central role in Wales makes these ties essential. With a capacity of 820 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in resettlement alongside challenges like overcrowding, Cardiff is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and easy booking process via +44 29 2092 3100 allow loved ones to offer support, which can inspire hope and change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Knox Road address or connect with someone at Cardiff Prison, fostering bonds that matter. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.