Durham Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to County Durham’s Historic Gaol

Situated in the historic heart of Durham city, Durham Prison is a cornerstone of the North East’s justice system, steeped in centuries of penal history. Officially known as HMP Durham, this Category B prison blends Victorian architecture with modern rehabilitation efforts, serving a diverse male population. 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 a detailed exploration of Durham Prison’s address, telephone number, visiting procedures, transport links, and the daily experiences of its inmates, offering an essential resource for families and researchers.

Overview of Durham Prison

Durham Prison, officially HMP Durham, is a Category B male prison located in the city centre of Durham, County Durham. Established in 1810, it is one of England’s oldest operational prisons, with a capacity of approximately 981 inmates. The facility primarily houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to medium-term sentences for offences such as theft, assault, or drug-related crimes, or awaiting transfer to other prisons. As a local prison, it serves the courts of County Durham and the North East.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Durham Prison focuses on basic education, vocational training, and resettlement programmes, though its aging infrastructure poses challenges. The prison has housed notable inmates, such as Rose West, held on remand in the 1990s before her transfer, and various local offenders linked to high-profile cases. Recent inspections highlight progress in inmate welfare but note issues with overcrowding, violence, and drug use, positioning Durham as a complex hub in the prison estate.

History of Durham Prison

Durham Prison’s history began in 1810, when it was built as the Durham County Gaol to serve the growing population of the North East. Designed by architect George Moneypenny, its Victorian radial layout, with cell blocks extending from a central hub, reflected the era’s emphasis on discipline and surveillance. Initially housing men, women, and juveniles, it became a male-only facility by the late 19th century, aligning with Durham’s industrial growth.

Key moments include its role in the 1869 execution of Mary Ann Cotton, one of Britain’s first female serial killers, and its use as a military detention centre during World War I. The prison faced criticism in the 1980s for poor conditions, leading to refurbishments in 1995 and 2015 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. Durham’s long history mirrors the evolution of incarceration in the North East, balancing tradition with modern demands.

Durham Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is centrally located, 0.5 miles east of Durham city centre, accessible via the A181.

Durham Prison Telephone Number

To contact Durham Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 191 332 5100

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.

Durham Prison Capacity

Durham Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 981 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 Durham Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Durham Prison’s central location in Durham offers excellent connectivity to Newcastle, Sunderland, and the North East.

By Car

From Durham city centre, take the A181 (Old Elvet) east to the prison (5 minutes). From Newcastle, follow the A1(M) south to Junction 62, then the A690 (20 minutes). From Sunderland, take the A19 south, then the A690 (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off Old Elvet.

Parking: Limited on-street parking is available on Old Elvet, with pay-and-display spaces nearby. The nearest car park is at The Sands Car Park (5-minute walk, £1–£3 for 2 hours). Disabled parking is scarce, so plan ahead.

By Train

The nearest station is Durham Railway Station, 0.7 miles away (10-minute walk or 5-minute taxi, £5–£7). LNER and CrossCountry operate services from Newcastle (15 minutes), London King’s Cross (3 hours), and York (45 minutes). Taxis are available at the station. Check schedules on the LNER website.

By Bus

From Durham Bus Station, the Number 20 or 21 bus (Arriva) stops on Old Elvet, a 2-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10 minutes, taking 5 minutes from the bus station. Plan your journey using the Arriva North East website.

How to Book a Visit to Durham Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 191 332 5100 (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.

Durham 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 Durham Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Durham Prison is fast-paced, reflecting its role as a local prison with a high turnover of inmates. Housed in single or double cells within Victorian-era wings, 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 significant 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 tense, unpredictable environment where quick adaptation is key, but those engaged in education or work find some stability, despite the strain of aging infrastructure.

Recent News About Durham Prison

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

• Resettlement Programme Success: In March 2025, Durham’s employment programme placed 20 inmates in jobs post-release, earning local praise. Northern Echo
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Tyne
• Overcrowding Concerns: A January 2025 inspection noted the prison at 110% capacity, urging infrastructure upgrades. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Durham Prison

Who is held at Durham Prison?

Durham 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 Durham, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 191 332 5100 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Durham 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 Durham 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 believe that maintaining family connections can be a lifeline for inmates, and Durham Prison’s central role in the North East makes these ties essential. With a capacity of 981 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in resettlement alongside challenges like overcrowding, Durham is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 191 332 5100 enable loved ones to offer support, which can inspire hope and change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Old Elvet address or connect with someone at Durham Prison, fostering bonds that matter. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.