Sudbury Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Derbyshire’s Open Prison

Nestled in the rural countryside near Ashbourne, Derbyshire, Sudbury Prison serves as a unique open prison dedicated to preparing male offenders for reintegration into society. Officially known as HMP Sudbury, this Category D facility offers a progressive environment with greater freedom and community-focused rehabilitation. Whether you’re planning a visit to support a loved one, researching its role in the justice system, or curious about life inside, this guide provides a detailed exploration of Sudbury 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 Sudbury Prison

Sudbury Prison, officially HMP Sudbury, is a Category D open prison for adult male prisoners located in Sudbury, near Ashbourne, Derbyshire. Established in 1948, it has a capacity of approximately 581 inmates. The facility primarily accommodates men serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, fraud, or drug-related crimes, with a strong focus on resettlement through education, vocational training, and Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) for community work.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Sudbury is known for its open conditions, allowing inmates to work in local businesses and engage in community projects. Its facilities include workshops, classrooms, and agricultural areas, fostering practical skills. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from the East Midlands and beyond. Recent inspections praise its supportive environment but highlight challenges with drug use and staff retention, positioning Sudbury as a vital part of the prison estate.

History of Sudbury Prison

Sudbury Prison opened in 1948 as an open prison, built on a former military site to provide a rehabilitative environment for male offenders. Its open conditions were designed to prepare inmates for release, a progressive approach for the post-war era. The facility’s construction was part of a 1940s push to modernise the UK’s prison estate, featuring single and shared accommodation, workshops, and training spaces.

Key milestones include the introduction of ROTL in the 1960s, enabling inmates to work in the community, and the expansion of vocational training in the 1990s, including farming and horticulture programmes. Inspections in the 1980s praised its forward-thinking ethos but noted issues with infrastructure. Upgrades in 2005 and 2018 enhanced its educational facilities and security, addressing concerns like contraband smuggling. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged drug use and staffing challenges. Sudbury’s history reflects its evolution as a leading open prison, balancing freedom with responsibility.

Sudbury Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 3 miles southwest of Ashbourne, accessible via the A515.

Sudbury Prison Telephone Number

To contact Sudbury Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1283 584000

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.

Sudbury Prison Capacity

Sudbury Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 581 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and shared accommodation across several residential units, with accessibility adaptations for some inmates. Its capacity supports its open prison model, fostering a community-like atmosphere.

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

Sudbury Prison’s rural location near Ashbourne requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Derby, Burton upon Trent, and Uttoxeter.

By Car: From Ashbourne, take the A515 southwest to Ashbourne Road (10 minutes). From Derby, follow the A52 west, then the A515 (25 minutes). From Burton upon Trent, take the A511 north, then the A515 (20 minutes). The prison is signposted off Ashbourne Road.

Parking: Free on-site parking is available for visitors, including disabled spaces. The car park is adjacent to the visitor centre, with sufficient spaces even during peak hours.

By Train: The nearest station is Uttoxeter Railway Station, 7 miles away (15-minute taxi). East Midlands Railway operates services from Derby (20 minutes), Burton upon Trent (15 minutes), and Birmingham New Street (45 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £10–£15. Check schedules on the East Midlands Railway website.

By Bus: From Ashbourne, the Number 441 or 442 bus (Trent Barton) stops near Ashbourne Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run hourly, taking 15 minutes from Ashbourne Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Trent Barton website.

How to Book a Visit to Sudbury Prison

Visiting Sudbury Prison requires advance booking, with a more relaxed security process due to its open conditions. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1283 584000 (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, which are less stringent than in closed prisons but include searches.
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.

Sudbury 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 1–2 hours, with longer sessions for legal meetings. The visitor centre is welcoming, with basic refreshments available. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Sudbury Prison is structured to promote rehabilitation, leveraging its open conditions and rural setting. Inmates live in single or shared accommodation across residential units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., farming, horticulture), and work programmes, including ROTL opportunities in local businesses. The prison’s agricultural areas and workshops are standouts, offering practical skills. Facilities include a gym, library, and extensive grounds, with 8–10 hours of daily out-of-cell time, reflecting its open status.

A 2023 inspection found that 85% of inmates felt safe, one of the highest rates among UK prisons, though drug use, particularly cannabis, remains a challenge, with around 60 incidents of contraband in 2024. Mental health support is improving but limited by staffing shortages (down 8% in 2024). Positive aspects include ROTL, family contact programmes, and community work, which help inmates maintain ties. Inmates describe a supportive, less restrictive environment, with work opportunities offering hope, though adjusting to open conditions can be challenging for some.

Recent News About Sudbury Prison

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

• ROTL Programme Success: In March 2025, 20 inmates secured community jobs via ROTL, boosting resettlement outcomes. Derby Telegraph
• Horticulture Programme Praise: A February 2025 report highlighted the prison’s agricultural work for its role in skill-building. BBC Derbyshire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted an 8% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Sudbury Prison

Who is held at Sudbury Prison?

Sudbury Prison houses adult male prisoners serving medium to long-term sentences in Category D open conditions, with a focus on resettlement.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a common concern. At Sudbury, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1283 584000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Sudbury 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, farming, and ROTL opportunities, though availability varies.

How safe is Sudbury Prison?

Safety is strong, with 85% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use is a concern, 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 Sudbury Prison’s open conditions make these connections vital for rehabilitation. With a capacity of 581 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in ROTL and horticulture alongside staffing challenges, Sudbury is a hub of opportunity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1283 584000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Ashbourne Road address or connect with someone at Sudbury Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.