Leicester Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Leicestershire’s Historic Gaol

Located in the heart of Leicester, Leicester Prison stands as one of the UK’s oldest correctional facilities, serving as a vital part of Leicestershire’s justice system. Officially known as HMP Leicester, this Category B prison blends Victorian architecture with modern rehabilitation efforts for a diverse male population. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its historical significance, or curious about life behind its walls, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Leicester 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 Leicester Prison

Leicester Prison, officially HMP Leicester, is a Category B male prison located in Leicester, Leicestershire. Established in 1876, it is one of England’s oldest operational prisons, with a capacity of approximately 392 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 Leicestershire and surrounding areas.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Leicester Prison focuses on basic education, vocational training, and resettlement programmes, though its aging infrastructure poses challenges. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised in recent years, the prison serves a diverse population from the Midlands. Recent inspections highlight progress in inmate welfare but note issues with overcrowding, violence, and drug use, positioning Leicester as a complex hub in the prison estate.

History of Leicester Prison

Leicester Prison opened in 1876 as the Leicester Borough Gaol, designed by architect Joseph Goddard to serve the growing industrial population of Leicester. 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 19th-century executions and its use as a military detention centre during World War II. 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. Leicester’s history mirrors the evolution of incarceration in the Midlands, balancing tradition with modern demands.

Leicester Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an urban area, 1 mile south of Leicester city centre, accessible via the A594.

Leicester Prison Telephone Number

To contact Leicester Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 116 255 4000

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.

Leicester Prison Capacity

Leicester Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 392 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 Leicester Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Leicester Prison’s central location in Leicester offers excellent connectivity to Leicester city centre, Nottingham, and Birmingham.

By Car: From Leicester city centre, take the A594 south to Welford Road (5 minutes). From Nottingham, follow the M1 south to Junction 21, then the A5460 (30 minutes). From Birmingham, take the M6 to Junction 2, then the M69 and A5460 (45 minutes). The prison is signposted off Welford Road.

Parking: Limited on-street parking is available near Welford Road, with pay-and-display spaces nearby. The nearest car park is at Leicester Royal Infirmary (5-minute walk, £1–£3 for 2 hours). Disabled parking is scarce, so plan ahead.

By Train: The nearest station is Leicester Railway Station, 1 mile away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). East Midlands Railway operates services from Nottingham (30 minutes), Birmingham New Street (1 hour), and London St Pancras (1 hour). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the East Midlands Railway website.

By Bus: From Leicester city centre, the Number 88 or 88A bus (Arriva) stops on Welford Road, a 3-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10 minutes, taking 5 minutes from Leicester St Margaret’s Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Arriva Midlands website.

How to Book a Visit to Leicester Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 116 255 4000 (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.

Leicester 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 Leicester Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Leicester 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 180 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, unpredictable 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 Leicester Prison

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Leicester Prison

Who is held at Leicester Prison?

Leicester 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 Leicester, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 116 255 4000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Leicester 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 Leicester 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 Leicester Prison’s central role in Leicestershire makes these ties essential. With a capacity of 392 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in resettlement alongside challenges like overcrowding, Leicester is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 116 255 4000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can inspire hope and change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Welford Road address or connect with someone at Leicester Prison, fostering bonds that matter. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.