Hull Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to East Yorkshire’s Historic Gaol

Located in the heart of Kingston upon Hull, Hull Prison stands as a significant facility in the UK’s prison system, blending historical architecture with modern rehabilitation efforts. Officially known as HMP Hull, this Category B prison serves a diverse male population with a focus on security and resettlement. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its storied past, or curious about life behind its walls, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Hull 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 Hull Prison

Hull Prison, officially HMP Hull, is a Category B male prison located in Kingston upon Hull, East Yorkshire. Established in 1870, it is one of England’s older operational prisons, with a capacity of approximately 1,044 inmates. The facility 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 prisons. As a local prison, it serves the courts of East Yorkshire and the Humber region.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Hull Prison focuses on education, vocational training, and resettlement programmes, though its Victorian infrastructure poses challenges. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised in recent years, the prison has historically housed notable local offenders. Recent inspections highlight progress in inmate welfare but note issues with overcrowding, violence, and drug use, positioning Hull as a complex hub in the prison estate.

History of Hull Prison

Hull Prison opened in 1870 as the Hull Borough Gaol, designed by architect William Henry Crossland to serve the growing industrial population of Kingston upon Hull. Its Victorian radial layout, with cell blocks extending from a central hub, reflected the era’s emphasis on discipline and surveillance. Initially housing men, women, and juveniles, it became a male-only facility by the early 20th century, aligning with the city’s urban expansion.

Key moments include its role in the 19th-century incarceration of local offenders and its use as a military detention centre during World War I. The prison faced criticism in the 1980s for poor conditions, leading to refurbishments in 1995 and 2015 that added educational spaces and improved sanitation. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report noted improvements in staff-inmate relations but flagged concerns about drug smuggling and outdated facilities. Hull’s history reflects its evolution as a regional gaol, balancing tradition with modern demands.

Hull Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an industrial area, 2 miles east of Hull city centre, accessible via the A1033.

Hull Prison Telephone Number

To contact Hull Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1482 498000

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.

Hull Prison Capacity

Hull Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,044 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several wings, with limited accessibility adaptations due to its historic design. Overcrowding is a persistent issue, with the prison often operating at or above capacity, as noted in recent reports.

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

Hull Prison’s location in Kingston upon Hull offers good connectivity to Hull city centre, Grimsby, and York.

By Car

From Hull city centre, take the A1033 east to Hedon Road (5 minutes). From Grimsby, follow the A180 west, then the A15 and A1033 (30 minutes). From York, take the A1079 east, then the A1033 (45 minutes). The prison is signposted off Hedon 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 Hull Paragon Interchange, 2 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). Northern Rail and TransPennine Express operate services from York (1 hour), Leeds (1 hour), and London King’s Cross (2.5 hours via Doncaster). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus

From Hull city centre, the Number 75 or 76 bus (Stagecoach) stops on Hedon Road, a 3-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Hull Paragon Interchange. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Hull Prison

Visiting Hull Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1482 498000 (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.

Hull 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 basic but functional, with limited refreshments. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Hull Prison is fast-paced, reflecting its role as a local prison with a high turnover of inmates. Housed in single or double cells within Victorian-era wings, many of which are cramped and dated, inmates follow a routine of education (e.g., literacy, numeracy), work (e.g., cleaning, workshops), and basic resettlement programmes. Facilities include a gym, library, and chapel, but time out of cells is often limited to 4–6 hours daily due to staffing constraints.

A 2023 inspection found that 55% of inmates felt safe, with violence and drug use, particularly cannabis and Spice, posing significant challenges, with over 200 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is strained, with self-harm rates above average. Positive aspects include peer mentoring and family contact initiatives, which help new arrivals adjust. Inmates describe a tense environment where quick adaptation is key, but those engaged in education or work find some stability, despite the strain of aging infrastructure.

Recent News About Hull Prison

Hull Prison has been in the news in 2025 for operational challenges and improvements:

• Resettlement Programme Success: In March 2025, Hull’s employment programme placed 15 inmates in jobs post-release, earning local praise. Hull Daily Mail
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Humber
• Overcrowding Concerns: A January 2025 inspection noted the prison at 105% capacity, urging infrastructure upgrades. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates reflect Hull’s efforts to balance security and rehabilitation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hull Prison

Who is held at Hull Prison?

Hull 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 Hull, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1482 498000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Hull Prison accessible?

Accessibility is limited due to the historic building, but ground-floor access and support can be arranged. Contact staff when booking to discuss needs.

What programmes are available for inmates?

Inmates can access education, work, and resettlement programmes, including literacy, maintenance, and pre-release support, though availability varies.

How safe is Hull Prison?

Safety is a challenge, with violence and drug use reported in 2023. Recent security measures and mentoring programmes aim to improve conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family connections can be a lifeline for inmates, and Hull Prison’s central role in East Yorkshire makes these ties essential. With a capacity of 1,044 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in resettlement alongside challenges like overcrowding, Hull is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1482 498000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can inspire hope and change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Hedon Road address or connect with someone at Hull Prison, fostering bonds that matter. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.