Preston Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Lancashire’s Historic Gaol

Located in the heart of Preston, Lancashire, Preston Prison stands as one of the UK’s oldest correctional facilities, serving as a cornerstone of the region’s justice system. Officially known as HMP Preston, 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 storied past, or curious about life behind its walls, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Preston 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 Preston Prison

Preston Prison, officially HMP Preston, is a Category B male prison located in Preston, Lancashire. Established in 1790, with major expansions in the 19th century, it is one of England’s oldest operational prisons, with a capacity of approximately 750 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 Lancashire and surrounding areas.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Preston Prison focuses on 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 North West. Recent inspections highlight progress in inmate welfare but note issues with overcrowding, violence, and drug use, positioning Preston as a complex hub in the prison estate.

History of Preston Prison

Preston Prison opened in 1790 as the Preston House of Correction, with significant rebuilding in 1840 to serve the growing industrial population of Lancashire. Its Victorian radial layout, designed by architect John Welch, featured cell blocks extending from a central hub, reflecting 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.

Key moments include its role in 19th-century executions and its use as a military detention centre during World War I. 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. Preston’s history mirrors the evolution of incarceration in Lancashire, balancing tradition with modern demands.

Preston Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an urban area, 1 mile east of Preston city centre, accessible via the A59.

Preston Prison Telephone Number

To contact Preston Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1772 444600

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.

Preston Prison Capacity

Preston Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 750 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 Preston Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Preston Prison’s urban location in Preston offers excellent connectivity to Preston city centre, Blackburn, and Lancaster.

By Car: From Preston city centre, take the A59 east to Ribbleton Lane (5 minutes). From Blackburn, follow the A59 west (15 minutes). From Lancaster, take the M6 south to Junction 31, then the A59 (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off Ribbleton Lane.

Parking: Limited on-street parking is available near Ribbleton Lane, with pay-and-display spaces nearby. The nearest car park is at Preston Bus Station Car Park (10-minute walk, £1–£3 for 2 hours). Disabled parking is scarce, so plan ahead.

By Train: The nearest station is Preston Railway Station, 1 mile away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute bus ride). Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast operate services from Blackburn (15 minutes), Lancaster (20 minutes), and Manchester Piccadilly (45 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus: From Preston city centre, the Number 1 or 8 bus (Stagecoach) stops on Ribbleton Lane, a 2-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 10 minutes, taking 5 minutes from Preston Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Preston Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1772 444600 (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.

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

Life at Preston 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 200 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 Preston Prison

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Preston Prison

Who is held at Preston Prison?

Preston 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 Preston, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1772 444600 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston Prison’s central role in Lancashire makes these ties essential. With a capacity of 750 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in resettlement alongside challenges like overcrowding, Preston is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1772 444600 enable loved ones to offer support, which can inspire hope and change. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Ribbleton Lane address or connect with someone at Preston Prison, fostering bonds that matter. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.