Full Sutton Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Yorkshire’s High-Security Fortress

Located in the rural expanse of East Yorkshire, Full Sutton Prison stands as one of the UK’s most secure correctional facilities, designed for high-risk male offenders. Officially known as HMP Full Sutton, this Category A prison combines stringent security with rehabilitation efforts, playing a critical 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 Full Sutton 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 Full Sutton Prison

Full Sutton Prison, officially HMP Full Sutton, is a Category A high-security prison for adult male prisoners located in Full Sutton, near York, East Yorkshire. Opened in 1987, it has a capacity of approximately 558 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, Full Sutton is known for its advanced security measures and rehabilitation programmes, including education, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions. Notable inmates have included Charles Bronson, one of the UK’s most notorious prisoners, and Dennis Nilsen, the serial killer held there in the 1990s. Recent inspections praise its structured environment but highlight challenges with mental health support and staff shortages, positioning Full Sutton as a critical yet complex high-security facility.

History of Full Sutton Prison

Full Sutton Prison opened in April 1987, built on a former RAF airfield to address the need for high-security facilities in Northern England. 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 Bronson and Nilsen, and a 1997 escape attempt that prompted significant security upgrades. Further improvements in 2005 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. Full Sutton’s history reflects its evolution as a high-security hub, balancing stringent control with rehabilitation.

Full Sutton Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Full Sutton Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 10 miles northeast of York, accessible via the A1079.

Full Sutton Prison Telephone Number

To contact Full Sutton Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1759 475100

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.

Full Sutton Prison Capacity

Full Sutton Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 558 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 Full Sutton Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Full Sutton Prison’s rural location near York requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to York, Hull, and Leeds.

By Car

From York, take the A1079 east to Full Sutton, then follow Moor Lane (20 minutes). From Hull, follow the A1079 west (30 minutes). From Leeds, take the A64 east, then the A1079 (45 minutes). The prison is signposted off Moor Lane.

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 York Railway Station, 10 miles away (20-minute taxi or 30-minute bus ride). LNER and CrossCountry operate services from Leeds (30 minutes), London King’s Cross (2 hours), and Hull (40 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £15–£20. Check schedules on the LNER website.

By Bus

From York, the Number 747 bus (East Yorkshire Buses) stops in Full Sutton, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run hourly, taking 30 minutes from York. Plan your journey using the East Yorkshire Buses website.

How to Book a Visit to Full Sutton Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1759 475100 (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.

Full Sutton 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 Full Sutton Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Full Sutton 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 120 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 Full Sutton Prison

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Full Sutton Prison

Who is held at Full Sutton Prison?

Full Sutton 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 Full Sutton, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1759 475100 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Full Sutton 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 Full Sutton 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 Full Sutton Prison. With a capacity of 558 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in therapy alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Full Sutton is a complex facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and secure booking process via +44 1759 475100 enable loved ones to offer support, which can be transformative. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Moor Lane address or connect with someone at Full Sutton Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.