Erlestoke Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Wiltshire’s Rehabilitation Hub

Nestled in the tranquil Wiltshire countryside near Devizes, Erlestoke Prison stands as a modern facility dedicated to rehabilitating male offenders. Officially known as HMP Erlestoke, this Category C prison combines a historic setting with progressive programmes aimed at reducing reoffending. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its role in the justice system, or curious about life behind its walls, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Erlestoke 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 Erlestoke Prison

Erlestoke Prison, officially HMP Erlestoke, is a Category C male prison located in Erlestoke, near Devizes, Wiltshire. Opened in 1960 as a borstal, it was re-roled in 1988 to house adult male prisoners, with a capacity of approximately 470 inmates. The facility primarily accommodates men serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, fraud, or drug-related crimes, with a strong focus on training and resettlement.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Erlestoke is known for its rehabilitation programmes, including education, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions, supported by facilities like workshops and classrooms. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from the South West and beyond. Recent inspections praise its training opportunities but highlight challenges with drug use and staff shortages, positioning Erlestoke as a progressive yet complex facility.

History of Erlestoke Prison

Erlestoke Prison began as a borstal in 1960, established in a former manor house to provide a rehabilitative environment for young male offenders. In 1988, it was re-roled to house adult male prisoners, reflecting the need for additional Category C facilities in the South West. The transition introduced training-focused programmes, leveraging the manor’s grounds for farming and horticulture.

Key milestones include the expansion of vocational training in the 1990s and the introduction of therapeutic programmes in the 2000s. Inspections in the 1980s praised its progressive ethos but noted issues with aging infrastructure. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its educational facilities and security, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged mental health support gaps and staffing challenges. Erlestoke’s history reflects its evolution into a key rehabilitation hub, balancing its historic setting with modern demands.

Erlestoke Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 4 miles southwest of Devizes, accessible via the A360.

Erlestoke Prison Telephone Number

To contact Erlestoke Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1380 814500

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.

Erlestoke Prison Capacity

Erlestoke Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 470 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations. Its capacity supports its role as a training prison, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

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

Erlestoke Prison’s rural location near Devizes requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Bath, Salisbury, and Swindon.

By Car

From Devizes, take the A360 south to Erlestoke (10 minutes). From Bath, follow the A36 east, then the A360 (30 minutes). From Salisbury, take the A360 north (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off the A360 in Erlestoke village.

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 peak hours.

By Train

The nearest station is Westbury Railway Station, 8 miles away (15-minute taxi). Great Western Railway operates services from Bath (20 minutes), London Paddington (1.5 hours via Swindon), and Salisbury (25 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £12–£18. Alternatively, Trowbridge Station (10 miles) offers wider connections. Check schedules on the GWR website.

By Bus

From Devizes or Trowbridge, the Number 2 bus (Salisbury Reds) stops in Erlestoke village, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 15 minutes from Devizes. Plan your journey using the Salisbury Reds website.

How to Book a Visit to Erlestoke Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1380 814500 (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.

Erlestoke 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 functional, with basic refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Erlestoke Prison is structured to promote rehabilitation, leveraging its modern facilities and historic setting. Inmates live in single or double cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., horticulture, carpentry), and work programmes, including farm work on the prison’s grounds. 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 65% of inmates felt safe, but drug use, particularly cannabis and Spice, and violence remain challenges, with over 120 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is improving but strained, with self-harm rates above average. Positive aspects include employability programmes with links to local businesses and family contact initiatives. Inmates describe a purposeful environment, with training offering a sense of achievement, though tensions from drug use and staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) can disrupt progress.

Recent News About Erlestoke Prison

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

• Horticulture Programme Success: In March 2025, Erlestoke’s farm programme trained 15 inmates in agricultural skills, boosting employability. Wiltshire Times
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Wiltshire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Erlestoke Prison

Who is held at Erlestoke Prison?

Erlestoke Prison houses adult male prisoners serving medium to long-term sentences in Category C conditions, with a focus on training and resettlement.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Erlestoke, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1380 814500 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Erlestoke 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, horticulture, and carpentry, though availability varies.

How safe is Erlestoke Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 65% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use and violence are concerns, but training and security programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope and change, and Erlestoke Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 470 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in horticulture alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Erlestoke is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1380 814500 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Erlestoke address or connect with someone at Erlestoke Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.