Gartree Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Leicestershire’s High-Security Facility

Situated in the quiet countryside near Market Harborough, Leicestershire, Gartree Prison stands as a key high-security facility in the UK’s prison system. Officially known as HMP Gartree, this Category B prison combines stringent security with rehabilitation efforts, serving a diverse population of male offenders. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its storied history, or curious about life behind its walls, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Gartree 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 Gartree Prison

Gartree Prison, officially HMP Gartree, is a Category B male prison located in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. Opened in 1965, it has a capacity of approximately 869 inmates. The facility primarily houses adult male prisoners serving long-term or life sentences for serious offences, such as murder, robbery, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on rehabilitation through education and therapeutic programmes.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Gartree is known for its therapeutic community and vocational training programmes, supported by facilities like workshops and classrooms. Notable inmates have included Colin Ireland, the serial killer held in the 1990s, and other high-risk offenders. Recent inspections praise its rehabilitation efforts but highlight challenges with drug use and staff shortages, positioning Gartree as a critical yet complex facility in the prison estate.

History of Gartree Prison

Gartree Prison opened in 1965, built on a former RAF site to address the need for additional prison capacity in the Midlands. Initially a Category C prison, it was upgraded to Category B in the 1990s to house higher-risk offenders, reflecting its growing role in the prison system. The facility’s design included modern security features and rehabilitation spaces, such as a therapeutic community for addressing behavioural issues.

Key moments include a high-profile escape attempt in 1987 via helicopter, which led to significant security upgrades, and the expansion of its therapeutic community in the 2000s. Further improvements in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its educational and security infrastructure, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its therapeutic programmes but flagged concerns about drug use and staffing challenges. Gartree’s history reflects its evolution as a high-security hub with a strong rehabilitation focus.

Gartree Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 2 miles south of Market Harborough, accessible via the A6.

Gartree Prison Telephone Number

To contact Gartree Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1858 462600

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.

Gartree Prison Capacity

Gartree Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 869 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several secure units, with some accessibility adaptations. Its capacity supports its role as a high-security prison, though space constraints can occur due to its specialised population.

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

Gartree Prison’s rural location near Market Harborough requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Leicester, Northampton, and Kettering.

By Car

From Market Harborough, take the A6 south to Gallow Field Road (5 minutes). From Leicester, follow the A6 south (20 minutes). From Northampton, take the A508 north, then the A6 (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off Gallow Field Road.

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 Market Harborough Railway Station, 2 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). East Midlands Railway operates services from Leicester (15 minutes), London St Pancras (1 hour), and Kettering (10 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the East Midlands Railway website.

By Bus

From Market Harborough, the Number X7 bus (Stagecoach) stops near Gallow Field Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Market Harborough. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Gartree Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1858 462600 (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.

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

Life at Gartree Prison is highly structured, reflecting its role as a high-security facility. Inmates live in single or double cells within secure units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., engineering, catering), and therapeutic programmes, particularly in the prison’s therapeutic community. 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 130 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 the therapeutic community 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 Gartree Prison

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

• Therapeutic Community Success: In March 2025, Gartree’s therapy programme saw 20 inmates complete a course, reducing reoffending risks. Leicester Mercury
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Leicestershire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Gartree Prison

Who is held at Gartree Prison?

Gartree Prison houses adult male prisoners serving long-term or life sentences for serious offences in Category B conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Gartree, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1858 462600 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Gartree Prison accessible?

Yes, it offers ramps, accessible toilets, and parking, though accessibility is limited by its secure 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 Gartree 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 Gartree Prison. With a capacity of 869 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in its therapeutic community alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Gartree is a complex facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and secure booking process via +44 1858 462600 enable loved ones to offer support, which can be transformative. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Gallow Field Road address or connect with someone at Gartree Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.