Morton Hall Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Lincolnshire’s Male Facility

Located in the rural village of Swinderby, Lincolnshire, Morton Hall Prison serves as a specialised facility in the UK’s prison system, focusing on rehabilitation for male offenders, particularly foreign nationals. Officially known as HMP Morton Hall, 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 Morton Hall 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 Morton Hall Prison

Morton Hall Prison, officially HMP Morton Hall, is a Category C male prison located in Swinderby, near Lincoln, Lincolnshire. Established in 1985 as a prison, it was re-roled in 2011 to focus primarily on foreign national male offenders, with a capacity of approximately 392 inmates. The facility 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, vocational training, and immigration-related support.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Morton Hall is known for its tailored programmes for foreign national offenders, including language support and immigration services, supported by facilities like workshops and classrooms. 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 drug use and staff shortages, positioning Morton Hall as a specialised yet complex facility.

History of Morton Hall Prison

Morton Hall opened in 1985 as a women’s prison on a former RAF site, but it was re-roled in 2011 to house foreign national male offenders, reflecting the need for specialised facilities to address immigration and deportation issues. The facility’s modern design incorporated security features and rehabilitation spaces, featuring single and double cells, workshops, and educational facilities.

Key milestones include its transition from an immigration removal centre (2002–2011) to a male prison in 2011 and the introduction of language and employability programmes in the 2010s. Early inspections praised its modern infrastructure but noted challenges with staff training for diverse populations. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its security and educational facilities, addressing issues like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged drug use and staffing challenges. Morton Hall’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised facility, balancing rehabilitation with immigration complexities.

Morton Hall Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Morton Hall Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 7 miles southwest of Lincoln, accessible via the A46.

Morton Hall Prison Telephone Number

To contact Morton Hall Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1522 666900

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.

Morton Hall Prison Capacity

Morton Hall Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 392 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several residential units, with accessibility adaptations for some inmates. Its smaller capacity supports its focus on tailored rehabilitation, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

How to Get to Morton Hall Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Morton Hall Prison’s rural location near Swinderby requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Lincoln, Newark, and Nottingham.

By Car: From Lincoln, take the A46 southwest to Swinderby (15 minutes). From Newark, follow the A46 north (15 minutes). From Nottingham, take the A46 north (30 minutes). The prison is signposted off the A46.

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 Swinderby Railway Station, 1 mile away (5-minute taxi or 20-minute walk). East Midlands Railway operates services from Lincoln (10 minutes), Newark (10 minutes), and Nottingham (25 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the East Midlands Railway website.

By Bus: From Lincoln, the Number 47 or 48 bus (Stagecoach) stops in Swinderby, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run hourly, taking 20 minutes from Lincoln Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Morton Hall Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1522 666900 (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.

Morton Hall 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 Morton Hall Prison: What’s It Like for Inmates?

Life at Morton Hall 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 residential units, 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 100 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 Morton Hall Prison

Morton Hall 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. Lincolnshire Live
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Lincolnshire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Morton Hall Prison

Who is held at Morton Hall Prison?

Morton Hall Prison houses adult male prisoners, primarily 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 Morton Hall, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1522 666900 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Morton Hall 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, construction, and catering programmes, though availability varies.

How safe is Morton Hall 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 Morton Hall Prison’s focus on rehabilitation, particularly for foreign nationals, makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 392 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in language training alongside challenges like drug smuggling, Morton Hall is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1522 666900 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Swinderby address or connect with someone at Morton Hall Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.