Holme House Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Teesside’s Male Facility

Located in the industrial heart of Stockton-on-Tees, Holme House Prison serves as a key facility in the UK’s prison system, balancing security and rehabilitation for male offenders. Officially known as HMP Holme House, this Category B prison offers a structured environment focused on training and resettlement. 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 Holme House 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 Holme House Prison

Holme House Prison, officially HMP Holme House, is a Category B male prison located in Stockton-on-Tees, Teesside. Opened in 1992, it is a relatively modern facility with a capacity of approximately 1,210 inmates. The prison primarily houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to medium-term sentences for offences such as theft, assault, or drug-related crimes, or awaiting transfer to other facilities.

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

History of Holme House Prison

Holme House Prison opened in May 1992, built on a former industrial site in Stockton-on-Tees to address prison overcrowding in the North East. Designed as a modern Category B prison, it incorporated advanced security features and rehabilitation spaces, moving away from the outdated designs of Victorian gaols. The facility’s construction was part of a 1990s initiative to modernise the UK’s prison estate, featuring single and double cells, workshops, and educational facilities.

Since its opening, Holme House has expanded its rehabilitation offerings, introducing programmes like construction and IT training in the 2000s. Early inspections praised its modern infrastructure but noted issues with staff training. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its security and educational facilities, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged drug use and staffing challenges. Holme House’s history reflects its role as a modern hub for rehabilitation, tempered by operational complexities.

Holme House Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Holme House Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an industrial area, 2 miles north of Stockton-on-Tees town centre, accessible via the A1046.

Holme House Prison Telephone Number

To contact Holme House Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1642 744000

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.

Holme House Prison Capacity

Holme House Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,210 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several houseblocks, with some accessibility adaptations. Its large capacity supports its role as a local prison, though overcrowding has been reported during peak periods.

How to Get to Holme House Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Holme House Prison’s location in Stockton-on-Tees offers good connectivity to Middlesbrough, Darlington, and Newcastle.

By Car

From Stockton-on-Tees town centre, take the A1046 north to Holme House Road (5 minutes). From Middlesbrough, follow the A66 west, then the A1046 (15 minutes). From Darlington, take the A66 east, then the A1046 (20 minutes). The prison is signposted off Holme House Road.

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 Thornaby Railway Station, 2 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). Northern Rail operates services from Middlesbrough (10 minutes), Darlington (15 minutes), and Newcastle (1 hour). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Alternatively, Stockton Station (2.5 miles) offers wider connections. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus

From Stockton-on-Tees or Thornaby, the Number 36 or 37 bus (Stagecoach) stops on Holme House Road, a 3-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Stockton. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Holme House Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1642 744000 (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.

Holme House 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 modern and functional, with refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Holme House Prison is structured to balance security and rehabilitation, leveraging its modern facilities. Inmates live in single or double cells across houseblocks, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and work programmes. 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 60% of inmates felt safe, but drug use, particularly cannabis and Spice, and violence remain challenges, with over 200 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 busy environment, with training offering purpose, though tensions from drug use and staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) can disrupt progress.

Recent News About Holme House Prison

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

• Vocational Training Success: In March 2025, Holme House’s construction training programme placed 20 inmates in jobs post-release. Teesside Live
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Tees
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Holme House Prison

Who is held at Holme House Prison?

Holme House Prison houses adult male prisoners, including those on remand, serving short to medium-term sentences, or awaiting transfer.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Holme House, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1642 744000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Holme House 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, construction, and catering, though availability varies.

How safe is Holme House Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 60% 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 transform an inmate’s journey, and Holme House Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 1,210 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in vocational training alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Holme House is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1642 744000 enable loved ones to offer hope, which can inspire change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Holme House Road address or connect with someone at Holme House Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.