Moorland Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to South Yorkshire’s Male Facility

Located in the rural outskirts of Doncaster, South Yorkshire, Moorland Prison serves as a key facility in the UK’s prison system, balancing rehabilitation and security for male offenders. Officially known as HMP Moorland, this Category C prison offers a structured environment focused 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 Moorland 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 Moorland Prison

Moorland Prison, officially HMP Moorland, is a Category C male prison located in Hatfield, near Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Opened in 1991, it is a relatively modern facility with a capacity of approximately 1,006 inmates. The prison primarily houses adult male prisoners 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, Moorland is known for its vocational programmes, including construction, catering, and horticulture, supported by modern facilities like workshops and classrooms. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from South Yorkshire and beyond. Recent inspections praise its rehabilitation efforts but highlight challenges with drug use and staff shortages, positioning Moorland as a dynamic yet complex facility.

History of Moorland Prison

Moorland Prison opened in 1991, built on a former RAF site to address prison overcrowding in the North of England. Designed as a Category C prison, it incorporated modern security features and rehabilitation spaces, featuring single and double cells, workshops, and educational facilities. The prison’s construction was part of a 1990s initiative to modernise the UK’s prison estate.

Key milestones include the introduction of employability programmes in the 2000s and the expansion of vocational training in the 2010s, such as IT and construction. Early inspections praised its modern infrastructure but noted issues with staff retention. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its security and educational facilities, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged drug use and staffing challenges. Moorland’s history reflects its role as a modern hub for rehabilitation, tempered by operational complexities.

Moorland Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 8 miles northeast of Doncaster, accessible via the A614.

Moorland Prison Telephone Number

To contact Moorland Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1302 523000

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.

Moorland Prison Capacity

Moorland Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,006 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several houseblocks, 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 Moorland Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Moorland Prison’s rural location near Doncaster requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Doncaster, Sheffield, and Scunthorpe.

By Car: From Doncaster, take the A614 northeast to Bawtry Road (15 minutes). From Sheffield, follow the M18 east to Junction 5, then the A614 (30 minutes). From Scunthorpe, take the M180 west, then the A614 (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off Bawtry 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 Hatfield & Stainforth Railway Station, 3 miles away (10-minute taxi). Northern Rail operates services from Doncaster (10 minutes), Sheffield (30 minutes), and Scunthorpe (20 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £6–£10. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus: From Doncaster, the Number 21 or 22 bus (First Bus) stops near Bawtry Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 20 minutes from Doncaster Interchange. Plan your journey using the First Bus South Yorkshire website.

How to Book a Visit to Moorland Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1302 523000 (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.

Moorland 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 modern and functional, with refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Moorland Prison is structured to balance rehabilitation and security, leveraging its modern facilities. Inmates live in single or double cells across houseblocks, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering, horticulture), and work programmes. Facilities include a gym, library, and 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 violence remain challenges, with over 150 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is improving but strained, with self-harm rates above average. Positive aspects include employability programmes with links to local businesses and family contact initiatives. Inmates describe a purposeful environment, with training offering a sense of achievement, though tensions from drug use and staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) can disrupt progress.

Recent News About Moorland Prison

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

• Vocational Training Success: In March 2025, Moorland’s catering training programme placed 20 inmates in jobs post-release. Sheffield Star
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC South Yorkshire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Moorland Prison

Who is held at Moorland Prison?

Moorland Prison houses adult male prisoners serving medium to long-term sentences in Category C conditions, with a focus on training and resettlement.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Moorland, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1302 523000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Moorland 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 work programmes, including IT, construction, catering, and horticulture, though availability varies.

How safe is Moorland Prison?

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

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope and change, and Moorland Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 1,006 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in vocational training alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Moorland is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1302 523000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Bawtry Road address or connect with someone at Moorland Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.