Maidstone Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Kent’s Male Facility

Located in the historic town of Maidstone, Kent, Maidstone Prison serves as a key facility in the UK’s prison system, focusing on rehabilitation for male offenders, particularly foreign nationals. Officially known as HMP Maidstone, this Category C prison offers a structured environment with an emphasis 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 Maidstone 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 Maidstone Prison

Maidstone Prison, officially HMP Maidstone, is a Category C male prison located in Maidstone, Kent. Established in 1819, it is one of England’s oldest operational prisons, with a capacity of approximately 600 inmates. The facility primarily houses adult male prisoners, including a significant proportion of foreign nationals, serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, assault, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on rehabilitation through education and vocational training.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Maidstone is known for its tailored programmes for foreign national offenders, including language support and immigration-related services, supported by facilities like workshops and classrooms. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised in recent years, the prison serves a diverse population from Kent and the South East. Recent inspections praise its cultural sensitivity but highlight challenges with drug use and staff shortages, positioning Maidstone as a dynamic yet complex facility.

History of Maidstone Prison

Maidstone Prison opened in 1819 as the Kent County Gaol, designed by architect John Whichcord Sr. to serve the growing population of Kent. Its original design reflected the era’s focus on discipline, with a layout that included cell blocks and a central chapel. Initially housing men, women, and juveniles, it became a male-only facility by the early 20th century and was re-roled in the 1990s to focus on foreign national prisoners.

Key milestones include its role in 19th-century executions and the introduction of rehabilitation programmes in the 2000s, such as language and employability training. Inspections in the 1980s noted poor conditions, leading to refurbishments in 1995 and 2015 that modernised its facilities. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged concerns about drug smuggling and aging infrastructure. Maidstone’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised facility, balancing tradition with modern rehabilitation needs.

Maidstone Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an urban area, 0.5 miles north of Maidstone town centre, accessible via the A249.

Maidstone Prison Telephone Number

To contact Maidstone Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1622 775300

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.

Maidstone Prison Capacity

Maidstone Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 600 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several wings, with some accessibility adaptations. Its capacity supports its role as a training prison, though overcrowding has been reported during peak periods.

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

Maidstone Prison’s central location in Maidstone offers excellent connectivity to London, Canterbury, and Ashford.

By Car: From Maidstone town centre, take the A249 north to County Road (5 minutes). From London, follow the M20 southeast to Junction 7, then the A249 (45 minutes). From Canterbury, take the A2 west, then the M2 and A249 (30 minutes). The prison is signposted off County Road.

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

By Train: The nearest station is Maidstone East Railway Station, 0.5 miles away (5-minute walk or 3-minute taxi, £4–£6). Southeastern operates services from London Victoria (1 hour), Canterbury West (30 minutes), and Ashford International (20 minutes). Taxis are available at the station. Check schedules on the Southeastern website.

By Bus: From Maidstone town centre, the Number 7 or 8 bus (Arriva) stops on County Road, a 2-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10 minutes, taking 5 minutes from Maidstone Chequers Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Arriva South East website.

How to Book a Visit to Maidstone Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1622 775300 (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.

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

Life at Maidstone Prison is structured to balance rehabilitation and security, with a focus on supporting its foreign national population. Inmates live in single or double cells across wings, with access to education (e.g., English language, literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and immigration-focused support programmes. Facilities include a gym, library, and limited outdoor areas, with 6–8 hours of daily out-of-cell time when staffing allows.

A 2023 inspection found that 65% of inmates felt safe, but drug use, particularly cannabis and Spice, and occasional violence remain challenges, with over 120 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is strained, with self-harm rates above average, particularly among foreign nationals facing deportation concerns. Positive aspects include language support, employability programmes, and family contact initiatives. Inmates describe a diverse environment where education offers purpose, though cultural differences and staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) can disrupt progress.

Recent News About Maidstone Prison

Maidstone 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 25 inmates improve communication skills. Kent Online
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Kent
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Maidstone Prison

Who is held at Maidstone Prison?

Maidstone Prison houses adult male prisoners, including a high proportion of foreign nationals, serving medium to long-term sentences in Category C conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Maidstone, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1622 775300 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Maidstone 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 access education, vocational training, and immigration support, including English language, construction, and catering programmes, though availability varies.

How safe is Maidstone Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 65% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use and occasional violence are concerns, but support programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope and change, and Maidstone Prison’s focus on rehabilitation, particularly for foreign nationals, makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 600 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in language training alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Maidstone is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1622 775300 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the County Road address or connect with someone at Maidstone Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.