Warren Hill Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Suffolk’s Young Offender Institution

Located in the rural area of Hollesley, near Woodbridge, Suffolk, Warren Hill Prison serves as a key facility in the UK’s prison system, dedicated to young male offenders. Officially known as HMP/YOI Warren Hill, this Category C and young offender institution (YOI) focuses on rehabilitation for young men aged 18–21, offering a structured environment to address offending behaviour. Whether you’re arranging 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 Warren Hill 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 Warren Hill Prison

Warren Hill Prison, officially HMP/YOI Warren Hill, is a Category C and young offender institution located in Hollesley, near Woodbridge, Suffolk. Established in 2002, it has a capacity of approximately 222 inmates. The facility primarily houses young male offenders aged 18–21 serving detention and training orders or longer sentences for offences such as theft, violence, or drug-related crimes, with some adult male prisoners included. Its focus is on education and behaviour management to reduce reoffending.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Warren Hill is known for its tailored programmes for young offenders, including education, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions, supported by facilities like classrooms and workshops. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised, the prison serves a diverse population from East Anglia and beyond. Recent inspections praise its educational offerings but highlight challenges with violence, mental health support, and staff shortages, positioning Warren Hill as a critical yet complex facility.

History of Warren Hill Prison

Warren Hill Prison opened in 2002 as a YOI, built on a former borstal site to provide a rehabilitative environment for young male offenders. Its modern design incorporated rehabilitation spaces, with single and double cells, workshops, and educational facilities. The facility was established to meet the growing need for dedicated young offender institutions in the UK.

Key milestones include the introduction of behaviour-focused programmes in the 2000s and expansions to its educational facilities in the 2010s. Inspections in the early years noted challenges with infrastructure, leading to upgrades in 2010 and 2018. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its education programmes but flagged high levels of violence and staffing challenges. Warren Hill’s history reflects its role as a modern YOI, balancing rehabilitation with security.

Warren Hill Prison Address

The most up-to-date address for Warren Hill Prison is:

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 5 miles southeast of Woodbridge, accessible via the A1152.

Warren Hill Prison Telephone Number

To contact Warren Hill Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1394 459500

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.

Warren Hill Prison Capacity

Warren Hill Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 222 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and double cells across several residential units, with some accessibility adaptations for young inmates. Its smaller capacity supports its focus on tailored rehabilitation, though space constraints can occur during peak periods.

How to Get to Warren Hill Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Warren Hill Prison’s rural location near Woodbridge requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Ipswich, Felixstowe, and Woodbridge.

By Car: From Woodbridge, take the A1152 southeast to Hollesley (10 minutes). From Ipswich, follow the A12 east, then the A1152 (20 minutes). From Felixstowe, take the A14 west, then the A1152 (15 minutes). The prison is signposted off the A1152.

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 Woodbridge Railway Station, 5 miles away (10-minute taxi). Greater Anglia operates services from Ipswich (10 minutes), Felixstowe (20 minutes), and London Liverpool Street (1.5 hours). Taxis from the station cost £8–£12. Check schedules on the Greater Anglia website.

By Bus: From Woodbridge, the Number 71 bus (First Eastern Counties) stops in Hollesley, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run hourly, taking 15 minutes from Woodbridge Bus Station. Plan your journey using the First Eastern Counties website.

How to Book a Visit to Warren Hill Prison

Visiting Warren Hill Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance due to its young offender population. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1394 459500 (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 20 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 family-friendly facilities.

Confirmation is sent via email or phone. Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours prior to avoid restrictions.

Warren Hill 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 welcoming, with a play area and refreshments for families. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Warren Hill Prison is intense, reflecting the needs of its young and often vulnerable population. Inmates live in single or double cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., English, maths, IT), vocational training (e.g., construction, catering), and behaviour programmes like anger management. Facilities include a gym, library, and sports areas, but time out of cells is often limited to 4–6 hours daily due to staff shortages.

A 2023 inspection found that 55% of inmates felt safe, with violence, particularly gang-related, and drug use (e.g., cannabis, Spice) posing significant challenges, with over 150 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is strained, with high self-harm rates (over 200 incidents in 2024). Positive aspects include peer mentoring and family contact initiatives, which help young inmates adjust. Inmates describe a high-energy environment where tensions run high, but those engaged in education or training find purpose, though consistency depends on staff availability.

Recent News About Warren Hill Prison

Warren Hill Prison has been in the news in 2025 for both challenges and progress:

• Educational Success: In March 2025, a new IT training programme saw 15 inmates gain qualifications, boosting employability. East Anglian Daily Times
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related assaults, prompting new security protocols. BBC Suffolk
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 12% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

These updates reflect Warren Hill’s efforts to balance rehabilitation with security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Warren Hill Prison

Who is held at Warren Hill Prison?

Warren Hill Prison houses young male offenders (18–21) and some adult males serving sentences or on remand in Category C conditions.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a frequent concern. At Warren Hill, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1394 459500 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Warren Hill 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 behaviour programmes, including IT, construction, and anger management, though availability varies.

How safe is Warren Hill Prison?

Safety is a challenge, with violence and drug use reported in 2023. Security measures and mentoring programmes aim to improve conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we know that family support can be a lifeline for young offenders, and Warren Hill Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 222 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in IT training alongside challenges like violence, Warren Hill is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1394 459500 enable loved ones to offer hope, which can transform a young person’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Hollesley address or connect with someone at Warren Hill Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.