Huntercombe Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Oxfordshire’s Foreign National YOI

Located in the rural countryside near Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, Huntercombe Prison serves as a unique facility in the UK’s prison system, specifically designated for foreign national male offenders. Officially known as HMP/YOI Huntercombe, this Category C and young offender institution (YOI) focuses on rehabilitation for young men aged 18–21, with a tailored approach for its diverse population. Whether you’re arranging a visit to support a loved one, researching its specialised role, or curious about life inside, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Huntercombe 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 Huntercombe Prison

Huntercombe Prison, officially HMP/YOI Huntercombe, is a Category C and young offender institution located in Nuffield, near Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. Opened in 1946 as a borstal, it was re-roled in 2000 to house foreign national male offenders aged 18–21, with a capacity of approximately 480 inmates. The facility primarily serves young men serving detention and training orders or longer sentences for offences such as theft, violence, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on education, vocational training, and immigration-related support.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Huntercombe is known for its tailored programmes for foreign national offenders, including language support, education, and resettlement initiatives, supported by facilities like classrooms and workshops. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from across the UK. Recent inspections praise its cultural sensitivity but highlight challenges with violence, mental health support, and staff shortages, positioning Huntercombe as a specialised yet complex facility.

History of Huntercombe Prison

Huntercombe Prison began in 1946 as a borstal, established on a former military site to provide a rehabilitative environment for young male offenders. In 2000, it was re-roled to focus exclusively on foreign national prisoners, reflecting the growing need to address the unique challenges of this population, such as language barriers and deportation processes. The transition introduced specialised programmes, including language classes and immigration support.

Key milestones include the expansion of educational facilities in the 2000s and the introduction of vocational training in the 2010s, such as catering and IT. Inspections in the 1990s praised its facilities but noted issues with staff training for diverse populations. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its security and educational infrastructure, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged violence and staffing challenges. Huntercombe’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised YOI, balancing rehabilitation with immigration complexities.

Huntercombe Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 2 miles north of Henley-on-Thames, accessible via the A4130.

Huntercombe Prison Telephone Number

To contact Huntercombe Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1491 643100

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.

Huntercombe Prison Capacity

Huntercombe Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 480 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations for young inmates. Its capacity supports its focus on tailored rehabilitation, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

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

Huntercombe Prison’s rural location near Henley-on-Thames requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Reading, Oxford, and London.

By Car

From Henley-on-Thames, take the A4130 north to Nuffield (5 minutes). From Reading, follow the A4074 south, then the A4130 (15 minutes). From Oxford, take the A4074 south (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off the A4130.

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 Henley-on-Thames Railway Station, 2 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). Great Western Railway operates services from Reading (20 minutes), London Paddington (1 hour via Twyford), and Oxford (30 minutes via Reading). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the GWR website.

By Bus

From Henley-on-Thames or Reading, the Number X38 or 800 bus (Oxford Bus Company) stops in Nuffield, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Henley-on-Thames. Plan your journey using the Oxford Bus Company website.

How to Book a Visit to Huntercombe Prison

Visiting Huntercombe Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance due to its young offender and foreign national population. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1491 643100 (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 20 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 family-friendly facilities.

Confirmation is sent via email or phone. Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours prior to avoid restrictions.

Huntercombe 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 welcoming, with a play area and refreshments for families. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Huntercombe Prison is structured to address the unique needs of its young, foreign national population. Inmates live in single or double cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., English language, maths, IT), vocational training (e.g., catering, construction), and immigration-focused support programmes. Facilities include a gym, library, and sports areas, with 6–8 hours of daily out-of-cell time when staffing allows.

A 2023 inspection found that 60% of inmates felt safe, with violence, particularly gang-related, and drug use (e.g., cannabis, Spice) posing challenges, with over 150 incidents in 2024. Mental health support is strained, with high self-harm rates due to language barriers and immigration uncertainties. Positive aspects include culturally sensitive programmes, language support, and family contact initiatives. Inmates describe a diverse, high-energy environment where education offers purpose, though cultural differences and staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) can disrupt progress.

Recent News About Huntercombe Prison

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

• Language Programme Success: In March 2025, a new English language course helped 20 inmates improve communication skills. Oxford Mail
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related incidents, prompting new security measures. BBC Oxfordshire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates reflect Huntercombe’s efforts to balance rehabilitation with security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Huntercombe Prison

Who is held at Huntercombe Prison?

Huntercombe Prison houses foreign national male young offenders (18–21) serving sentences or on remand, with a focus on immigration-related support.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Huntercombe, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1491 643100 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Huntercombe 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 immigration support, including English language, catering, and behaviour programmes, though availability varies.

How safe is Huntercombe Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 60% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Violence and drug use are concerns, but culturally sensitive programmes aim to improve conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we know that family support can be a lifeline for young offenders, and Huntercombe Prison’s focus on foreign nationals makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 480 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in language training alongside challenges like violence, Huntercombe is a specialised facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1491 643100 enable loved ones to offer hope, which can transform a young person’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Nuffield address or connect with someone at Huntercombe Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.