Downview Womens Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Surrey’s Female Facility

Tucked away in the leafy suburbs of Sutton, Surrey, Downview Womens Prison serves as a key facility for female offenders in the UK. Officially known as HMP Downview, this Category C prison blends modern rehabilitation efforts with a supportive environment, designed to help women rebuild their lives. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its role in the justice system, or curious about life inside, this guide offers a detailed exploration of Downview Womens Prison’s address, telephone number, visiting procedures, transport links, and the daily experiences of its inmates, providing an essential resource for families and researchers.

Overview of Downview Womens Prison

Downview Womens Prison, officially HMP Downview, is a Category C female prison located in Sutton, Surrey. Originally opened in 1989 as a male prison, it was re-roled in 2001 to house women, with a capacity of approximately 356 inmates. The facility primarily accommodates adult female prisoners, including those serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, fraud, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on rehabilitation and resettlement.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Downview is known for its progressive approach, offering education, vocational training, and mental health support through modern facilities like classrooms and workshops. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from London and the South East. Recent inspections praise its supportive environment but highlight challenges with drug use and staff shortages, positioning Downview as a vital yet complex part of the female prison estate.

History of Downview Womens Prison

Downview Womens Prison opened in 1989 as a male Category C prison, built on a former hospital site in Sutton to address prison overcrowding in the South East. In 2001, it was re-roled to house female prisoners, reflecting the need for additional women’s facilities after the closure of other prisons. The transition involved significant upgrades, including the addition of educational and therapeutic spaces tailored to female inmates’ needs.

Since its re-roling, Downview has focused on rehabilitation, introducing programmes like hairdressing, catering, and trauma-informed care. Inspections in the 2000s noted its modern facilities but raised concerns about staff training. Further upgrades in 2010 and 2018 enhanced its security and educational infrastructure, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report praised its resettlement programmes but flagged concerns about drug use and mental health support gaps. Downview’s history reflects its evolution into a key female facility, balancing rehabilitation with operational challenges.

Downview Womens Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Downview Womens Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a suburban area, 2 miles east of Banstead, accessible via the A217.

Downview Womens Prison Telephone Number

To contact Downview Womens Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 20 8194 7000

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.

Downview Womens Prison Capacity

Downview Womens Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 356 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations. Its capacity supports its focus on rehabilitation, though space constraints can occur in high-demand units.

How to Get to Downview Womens Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Downview Womens Prison’s location in Sutton offers good connectivity to London, Croydon, and Surrey.

By Car

From Sutton, take the A217 north to Sutton Lane (5 minutes). From London, follow the A23 south, then the A217 (30–45 minutes, depending on traffic). From Croydon, take the A232 west, then the A217 (15 minutes). The prison is signposted off Sutton Lane.

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

By Train

The nearest station is Banstead Railway Station, 1.5 miles away (5-minute taxi or 25-minute walk). Southern Railway operates services from London Victoria (40 minutes) and Epsom (10 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Alternatively, Sutton Station (2 miles) offers wider connections. Check schedules on the Southern Railway website.

By Bus

From Sutton or Banstead, the Number S1 or 420 bus (Transport for London) stops near Sutton Lane, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Sutton. Plan your journey using the TfL website.

How to Book a Visit to Downview Womens Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 20 8194 7000 (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 family-friendly waiting area with a play space.

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

Downview Womens Prison Visiting Times

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

• Tuesday, Thursday: 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 family-friendly, with a play area and refreshments. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Downview Womens Prison is structured to balance rehabilitation with security, leveraging its modern facilities. Inmates live in single cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., hairdressing, catering), and mental health programmes. Facilities include a gym, library, and outdoor areas, with 6–8 hours of daily out-of-cell time when staffing allows.

A 2023 inspection found that 70% of inmates felt safe, but drug use, particularly Spice, and self-harm (over 150 incidents in 2024) remain challenges. Mental health support is a priority, but staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) limit delivery. Positive aspects include trauma-informed care and family contact programmes, which help inmates maintain ties. Inmates describe a supportive yet structured environment, with vocational training offering hope, though high-security measures can feel isolating for some.

Recent News About Downview Womens Prison

Downview Womens Prison has been in the news in 2025 for its rehabilitation efforts and challenges:

• Vocational Training Success: In March 2025, Downview’s hairdressing programme saw 20 inmates gain qualifications, boosting employability. Get Surrey
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Surrey
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates highlight Downview’s commitment to rehabilitation amid operational hurdles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Downview Womens Prison

Who is held at Downview Womens Prison?

Downview houses adult female prisoners serving medium to long-term sentences in Category C conditions, with a focus on rehabilitation.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Downview, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 20 8194 7000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Downview Womens 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 mental health support, including IT, hairdressing, and trauma-informed care, though availability varies.

How safe is Downview Womens Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 70% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use and self-harm are concerns, but support programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we’re dedicated to helping families maintain vital connections with inmates, and Downview Womens Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these ties essential. With a capacity of 356 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in vocational training alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Downview is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 20 8194 7000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can be transformative for women in custody. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Sutton Lane address or connect with someone at Downview Womens Prison, fostering hope and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.