Hewell Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Worcestershire’s Male Facility

Located in the rural outskirts of Redditch, Worcestershire, Hewell Prison serves as a multifaceted facility in the UK’s prison system, combining high-security and open conditions for male offenders. Officially known as HMP Hewell, this Category B and D prison offers a blend of security and rehabilitation, catering to a diverse inmate population. 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 Hewell 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 Hewell Prison

Hewell Prison, officially HMP Hewell, is a combined Category B and Category D male prison located in Tardebigge, near Redditch, Worcestershire. Established in 2008 through the amalgamation of three former prisons (Blakenhurst, Brockhill, and Hewell Grange), it has a capacity of approximately 1,274 inmates. The facility houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, assault, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on rehabilitation through education and vocational training.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Hewell Prison is known for its dual structure: a high-security closed prison and an open prison unit (Hewell Grange). Its facilities include workshops, classrooms, and a farm, supporting diverse rehabilitation programmes. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from the Midlands. Recent inspections praise its training opportunities but highlight challenges with drug use and staff shortages, positioning Hewell as a complex facility in the prison estate.

History of Hewell Prison

Hewell Prison was formed in 2008 by merging three facilities: HMP Blakenhurst (a Category B prison opened in 1993), HMP Brockhill (a former women’s prison), and HMP Hewell Grange (an open prison established in 1960). The amalgamation aimed to streamline operations and modernise the prison estate in Worcestershire. Built on a former estate and military site, Hewell’s design incorporates both secure and open units, reflecting its dual role.

Key milestones include the integration of rehabilitation programmes in the 2010s, such as farming and construction training, and upgrades to security systems. Early inspections praised its modern facilities but noted issues with overcrowding in the closed units. Refurbishments in 2012 and 2018 enhanced its educational and security infrastructure, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged drug use and staffing challenges. Hewell’s history reflects its evolution as a versatile facility, balancing security with rehabilitation.

Hewell Prison Address

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

This address is verified via Lazarus via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 3 miles south of Redditch, accessible via the B4184.

Hewell Prison Telephone Number

To contact Hewell Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1527 508000

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.

Hewell Prison Capacity

Hewell Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,274 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across closed and open units, with accessibility adaptations for some inmates. Its large capacity supports its dual role, though overcrowding can occur in the closed units.

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

Hewell Prison’s rural location near Redditch requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Birmingham, Worcester, and Bromsgrove.

By Car

From Redditch, take the B4184 south to Hewell Lane (10 minutes). From Birmingham, follow the M42 to Junction 2, then the A441 and B4184 (25 minutes). From Worcester, take the A448 north, then the B4184 (20 minutes). The prison is signposted off Hewell Lane.

Parking: Free on-site parking is available for visitors, including disabled spaces. The car park is adjacent to the visitor centre, with ample spaces even during peak hours.

By Train

The nearest station is Redditch Railway Station, 3 miles away (10-minute taxi or 15-minute bus ride). West Midlands Trains operates services from Birmingham New Street (40 minutes) and Worcester (30 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £6–£10. Check schedules on the West Midlands Railway website.

By Bus

From Redditch, the Number 58 bus (Diamond Bus) stops near Hewell Lane, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 15 minutes from Redditch. Plan your journey using the Diamond Bus website.

How to Book a Visit to Hewell Prison

Visiting Hewell Prison requires advance booking and compliance with security protocols, with variations depending on the closed or open unit. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1527 508000 (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 (28 days for high-security units).
3. Identification: Adults (18+) must present photo ID (e.g., passport, driving licence). Children need a birth certificate. Arrive 15–30 minutes early for security checks, including searches and drug detection dogs (stricter in closed units).
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.

Hewell 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 1–2 hours, with longer sessions for legal meetings. The visitor centre is modern and functional, with refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Hewell Prison varies between its closed and open units. In the closed Category B units, inmates live in single or double cells with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and work programmes, but time out of cells is limited to 4–6 hours daily due to security protocols. In the open Category D unit (Hewell Grange), inmates enjoy greater freedom, single rooms, and opportunities like farm work and Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL), with 8–10 hours of out-of-cell time.

A 2023 inspection found that 65% of inmates in closed units and 80% in open units felt safe, with drug use (particularly Spice) and violence more prevalent in closed units (over 150 assault incidents in 2024). Mental health support is improving but strained by staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024). Positive aspects include employability programmes and family contact initiatives, particularly in the open unit. Inmates describe the closed units as tense but structured, while the open unit offers a supportive, community-like environment, though drug issues persist.

Recent News About Hewell Prison

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

• ROTL Programme Success: In March 2025, Hewell Grange’s ROTL programme placed 20 inmates in community jobs, boosting resettlement. Redditch Advertiser
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling in closed units, though issues persist. BBC Birmingham
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Hewell Prison

Who is held at Hewell Prison?

Hewell Prison houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to long-term sentences in Category B or D conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Hewell, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1527 508000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Hewell Prison accessible?

Yes, it offers ramps, accessible toilets, and parking, though accessibility is limited in closed units due to secure design. Request accommodations when booking.

What programmes are available for inmates?

Inmates access education, vocational training, and work programmes, including IT, construction, farming, and ROTL (in open units), though availability varies.

How safe is Hewell Prison?

Safety varies, with 65% of inmates in closed units and 80% in open units feeling safe in 2023. Drug use and violence are concerns, but support programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope and change, and Hewell Prison’s dual structure makes these connections vital for rehabilitation. With a capacity of 1,274 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in ROTL alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Hewell is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1527 508000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Hewell Lane address or connect with someone at Hewell Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.