Lancaster Farms Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Lancashire’s Young Offender Institution

Situated in the rural outskirts of Lancaster, Lancaster Farms Prison serves as a key facility for young male offenders in the UK. Officially known as HMP/YOI Lancaster Farms, this Category C and young offender institution (YOI) focuses on rehabilitation for young men aged 18–21, offering a structured environment to address offending behaviour. Whether you’re arranging a visit to support a loved one, researching its role in the justice system, or curious about life inside, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Lancaster Farms 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 Lancaster Farms Prison

Lancaster Farms Prison, officially HMP/YOI Lancaster Farms, is a Category C and young offender institution located in Lancaster, Lancashire. Opened in 1993, it is a relatively modern facility with a capacity of approximately 559 inmates. The prison primarily houses young male offenders aged 18–21 serving detention and training orders or longer sentences for offences such as theft, violence, or drug-related crimes, with some adult male prisoners included. Its focus is on education and behaviour management to reduce reoffending.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Lancaster Farms is known for its tailored programmes for young offenders, including education, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions, supported by modern facilities like classrooms and workshops. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from the North West. Recent inspections praise its educational offerings but highlight challenges with violence, mental health support, and staff shortages, positioning Lancaster Farms as a critical yet complex facility.

History of Lancaster Farms Prison

Lancaster Farms Prison opened in March 1993, built on a former agricultural site to address the need for young offender facilities in the North West. Designed as a modern YOI, it aimed to provide a rehabilitative environment with a focus on education and skills training. The facility’s construction was part of a 1990s push to improve youth justice, moving away from the punitive conditions of older prisons.

Key moments include the introduction of vocational training in the 2000s and a shift to include some adult prisoners in the 2010s, reflecting sentencing trends. Inspections in the 1990s praised its facilities but noted issues with staff retention. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its educational and security infrastructure, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its education programmes but flagged high levels of violence and mental health support gaps. Lancaster Farms’ history reflects its role as a key YOI, balancing rehabilitation with the challenges of managing a high-risk population.

Lancaster Farms Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Lancaster Farms Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 2 miles southeast of Lancaster city centre, accessible via the A683.

Lancaster Farms Prison Telephone Number

To contact Lancaster Farms Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1524 563450

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.

Lancaster Farms Prison Capacity

Lancaster Farms Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 559 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 Lancaster Farms Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Lancaster Farms Prison’s rural location near Lancaster requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or train, with links to Lancaster, Preston, and Morecambe.

By Car

From Lancaster city centre, take the A683 southeast to Stone Row Head (5 minutes). From Preston, follow the M6 north to Junction 33, then the A6 and A683 (25 minutes). From Morecambe, take the A589 east, then the A683 (10 minutes). The prison is signposted off Stone Row Head.

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 Lancaster Railway Station, 2 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast operate services from Preston (20 minutes), Manchester (1 hour), and London Euston (2.5 hours). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus

From Lancaster city centre, the Number 4 or 40 bus (Stagecoach) stops near Stone Row Head, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 15 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Lancaster Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Lancaster Farms Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1524 563450 (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.

Lancaster Farms 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 Lancaster Farms Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Lancaster Farms Prison is intense, reflecting the needs of its young and often vulnerable population. Inmates live in single or double cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., English, maths, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and behaviour programmes like anger management. Facilities include a gym, library, and sports areas, but time out of cells is often limited to 4–6 hours daily due to staff shortages.

A 2023 inspection found that 55% of inmates felt safe, with violence, particularly gang-related, and drug use (e.g., cannabis, Spice) posing significant challenges, with over 200 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is strained, with high self-harm rates (over 250 incidents in 2024). Positive aspects include peer mentoring and family contact initiatives, which help young inmates adjust. Inmates describe a high-energy environment where tensions run high, but those engaged in education or training find purpose, though consistency depends on staff availability.

Recent News About Lancaster Farms Prison

Lancaster Farms Prison has been in the news in 2025 for both challenges and progress:

• Educational Success: In March 2025, a new IT training programme saw 15 inmates gain qualifications, boosting employability. Lancashire Telegraph
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related assaults, prompting new security protocols. BBC Lancashire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 12% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates reflect Lancaster Farms’ efforts to balance rehabilitation with security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lancaster Farms Prison

Who is held at Lancaster Farms Prison?

Lancaster Farms houses young male offenders (18–21) and some adult males serving sentences in Category C conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a frequent concern. At Lancaster Farms, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1524 563450 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Lancaster Farms 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 behaviour programmes, including IT, construction, and anger management, though availability varies.

How safe is Lancaster Farms Prison?

Safety is a challenge, with violence and drug use reported in 2023. New security measures and mentoring 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 Lancaster Farms Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 559 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in IT training alongside challenges like violence, Lancaster Farms is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1524 563450 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 Stone Row Head address or connect with someone at Lancaster Farms Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.