Verne Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Dorset’s Male Facility

Located on the scenic Isle of Portland, Dorset, Verne 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 The Verne, 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 Verne 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 Verne Prison

Verne Prison, officially HMP The Verne, is a Category C male prison located in Portland, Dorset. Established in 1949, it has a capacity of approximately 580 inmates. The facility primarily houses adult male prisoners, with a focus on foreign nationals serving medium to long-term sentences for offences such as theft, assault, or drug-related crimes, and includes immigration-related services.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, The Verne is known for its tailored programmes for foreign national offenders, including language support and vocational training, 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 The Verne as a critical yet complex facility.

History of Verne Prison

Verne Prison opened in 1949, built within a 19th-century military fortress to provide a rehabilitative environment for male offenders. Initially a medium-security prison, it was re-roled in 2014 to focus on foreign national prisoners, reflecting the need for specialised immigration-focused facilities. Its historic fortress design, with single and double cells, was adapted to include modern rehabilitation spaces.

Key milestones include its transition from an immigration removal centre (2014–2017) to a Category C prison in 2017 and the introduction of language and employability programmes in the 2010s. Inspections in the 2000s noted issues with infrastructure, leading to refurbishments in 2005 and 2018. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its resettlement programmes but flagged concerns about drug smuggling and staffing challenges. The Verne’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised facility, balancing rehabilitation with security.

Verne Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a coastal area, 5 miles south of Weymouth, accessible via the A354.

Verne Prison Telephone Number

To contact Verne Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1305 825000

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.

Verne Prison Capacity

Verne Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 580 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations. Its capacity supports its specialised focus, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

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

Verne Prison’s coastal location on the Isle of Portland requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or train, with links to Weymouth, Dorchester, and Bournemouth.

By Car: From Weymouth, take the A354 south to the Isle of Portland (15 minutes). From Dorchester, follow the A354 south (20 minutes). From Bournemouth, take the A35 west, then the A354 (40 minutes). The prison is signposted off Verne Common 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 Weymouth Railway Station, 5 miles away (15-minute taxi or 20-minute bus ride). South Western Railway operates services from Dorchester (15 minutes), Bournemouth (45 minutes), and London Waterloo (3 hours). Taxis from the station cost £8–£12. Check schedules on the South Western Railway website.

By Bus: From Weymouth, the Number 1 bus (First Wessex) stops near Verne Common Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 20 minutes, taking 20 minutes from Weymouth Railway Station. Plan your journey using the First Wessex website.

How to Book a Visit to Verne Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1305 825000 (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.

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

Life at Verne 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 Verne Prison

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Verne Prison

Who is held at Verne Prison?

Verne 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 The Verne, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1305 825000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Verne Prison accessible?

Accessibility is limited due to the historic fortress structure, 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 Verne 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 Verne Prison’s focus on rehabilitation, particularly for foreign nationals, makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 580 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in language training alongside challenges like drug smuggling, The Verne is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1305 825000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Verne Common Road address or connect with someone at Verne Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.