Frankland Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Durham’s High-Security Fortress

Located in the rural outskirts of Durham, Frankland Prison stands as one of the UK’s most secure correctional facilities, designed for high-risk male offenders. Officially known as HMP Frankland, this Category A prison combines stringent security with rehabilitation efforts, serving a unique role in the justice system. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its significant history, or curious about life behind its fortified walls, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Frankland 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 Frankland Prison

Frankland Prison, officially HMP Frankland, is a Category A high-security prison for adult male prisoners located in Brasside, near Durham, County Durham. Opened in 1983, it has a capacity of approximately 844 inmates. The facility primarily houses prisoners serving long-term or life sentences for serious offences, such as murder, terrorism, or organised crime, including those requiring maximum security conditions.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Frankland is known for its advanced security measures and rehabilitation programmes, including education, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions. Notable inmates have included Ian Huntley, convicted of the 2002 Soham murders, and Levi Bellfield, a serial killer. Recent inspections praise its structured environment but highlight challenges with mental health support and staff shortages, positioning Frankland as a critical yet complex high-security facility.

History of Frankland Prison

Frankland Prison opened in 1983, built on a former RAF site in Brasside to address the need for high-security facilities in the North East. Designed with advanced security features, including fortified walls and surveillance systems, it was intended to house the UK’s most dangerous offenders. The prison’s construction was part of a 1980s initiative to modernise the prison estate, moving away from older, less secure facilities.

Key moments include its role in housing high-profile inmates like Huntley and Bellfield, and a 2005 riot that prompted security upgrades. Further improvements in 2010 and 2018 enhanced its therapeutic and educational facilities, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its rehabilitation efforts but flagged concerns about mental health support and staffing challenges. Frankland’s history reflects its evolution as a high-security hub, balancing stringent control with rehabilitation.

Frankland Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 3 miles northeast of Durham city centre, accessible via the A167.

Frankland Prison Telephone Number

To contact Frankland Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 191 376 5000

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.

Frankland Prison Capacity

Frankland Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 844 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single cells across several high-security units, with some accessibility adaptations. Its capacity supports its role as a maximum-security prison, though space constraints can occur due to its specialised population.

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

Frankland Prison’s rural location near Durham requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham city centre.

By Car

From Durham city centre, take the A167 north to Brasside (10 minutes). From Newcastle, follow the A1(M) south to Junction 62, then the A167 (25 minutes). From Sunderland, take the A1231 west, then the A167 (20 minutes). The prison is signposted off the A167.

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 Durham Railway Station, 3 miles away (10-minute taxi or 15-minute bus ride). LNER and CrossCountry operate services from Newcastle (15 minutes), London King’s Cross (3 hours), and York (45 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £6–£10. Check schedules on the LNER website.

By Bus

From Durham Bus Station, the Number 21 or 50 bus (Arriva) stops near Brasside, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Durham. Plan your journey using the Arriva North East website.

How to Book a Visit to Frankland Prison

Visiting Frankland Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance due to its high-security status. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 191 376 5000 (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 28 days in advance due to enhanced security checks.
3. Identification: Adults (18+) must present photo ID (e.g., passport, driving licence). Children need a birth certificate. Arrive 30 minutes early for rigorous security checks, including searches and drug detection dogs.
4. Special Requirements: Request accessible facilities or child support when booking. The visitor centre offers a secure waiting area with basic facilities.

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

Frankland 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 secure and functional, with limited refreshments. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Frankland Prison is highly structured, reflecting its role as a high-security facility. Inmates live in single cells within fortified units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., engineering, catering), and therapeutic programmes for behavioural issues. Facilities include a gym, library, and limited outdoor areas, with 4–6 hours of daily out-of-cell time due to strict security protocols.

A 2023 inspection found that 60% of inmates felt safe, with violence and drug use, particularly Spice, posing challenges, with over 150 incidents of contraband in 2024. Mental health support is a priority but strained, with high self-harm rates due to the prison’s high-risk population. Positive aspects include therapeutic interventions and family contact programmes, which help inmates maintain ties. Inmates describe a controlled environment, with rehabilitation offering hope, though the high-security setting can feel isolating.

Recent News About Frankland Prison

Frankland Prison has been in the news in 2025 for its high-security operations and rehabilitation efforts:

• Therapeutic Programme Success: In March 2025, Frankland’s therapy programme saw 15 inmates complete a course, reducing reoffending risks. Northern Echo
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Tyne
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates highlight Frankland’s commitment to rehabilitation amid high-security challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frankland Prison

Who is held at Frankland Prison?

Frankland Prison houses adult male prisoners serving long-term or life sentences for serious offences in Category A high-security conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Frankland, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 191 376 5000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Frankland Prison accessible?

Yes, it offers ramps, accessible toilets, and parking, though accessibility is limited by its high-security design. Request accommodations when booking.

What programmes are available for inmates?

Inmates access education, vocational training, and therapeutic programmes, including IT, engineering, and behavioural therapy, though availability varies.

How safe is Frankland Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 60% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Violence and drug use are concerns, but therapeutic and security programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope, even in a high-security setting like Frankland Prison. With a capacity of 844 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in therapy alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Frankland is a complex facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and secure booking process via +44 191 376 5000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can be transformative. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Brasside address or connect with someone at Frankland Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.