Wetherby Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to West Yorkshire’s Juvenile Facility

Located in the town of Wetherby, West Yorkshire, Wetherby Prison serves as a specialised facility in the UK’s prison system, dedicated to juvenile male offenders. Officially known as HMP/YOI Wetherby, this young offender institution (YOI) focuses on rehabilitation for boys aged 15–18, 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 Wetherby 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 Wetherby Prison

Wetherby Prison, officially HMP/YOI Wetherby, is a young offender institution located in Wetherby, West Yorkshire. Established in 1958 as a borstal and re-roled as a YOI in 1988, it has a capacity of approximately 336 inmates. The facility primarily houses juvenile male offenders aged 15–18 serving detention and training orders for offences such as theft, violence, or drug-related crimes, with a focus on education and behaviour management to reduce reoffending.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Wetherby is known for its tailored programmes for juvenile offenders, including education, vocational training, and therapeutic interventions, supported by facilities like classrooms and workshops. While no high-profile inmates are typically publicised due to the age of the population, the prison serves a diverse group from the North of England. Recent inspections praise its educational offerings but highlight challenges with violence, mental health support, and staff shortages, positioning Wetherby as a critical yet complex facility.

History of Wetherby Prison

Wetherby Prison opened in 1958 as a borstal, built on a former military site to provide a rehabilitative environment for young male offenders. Its design incorporated rehabilitation spaces, with single and shared accommodation, classrooms, and training facilities, reflecting a focus on reform. It transitioned to a YOI in 1988 to align with modern juvenile justice standards.

Key milestones include the introduction of behaviour-focused programmes in the 1990s and expansions to its educational facilities in the 2000s. Inspections in the 1990s noted challenges with infrastructure, leading to refurbishments in 1995 and 2015. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its education programmes but flagged high levels of violence and staffing challenges. Wetherby’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised juvenile facility, balancing rehabilitation with security.

Wetherby Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in an urban area, 1 mile northeast of Wetherby town centre, accessible via the A168.

Wetherby Prison Telephone Number

To contact Wetherby Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1937 586400

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.

Wetherby Prison Capacity

Wetherby Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 336 inmates, according to Ministry of Justice data. The facility includes single and shared accommodation across several residential units, with 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 Wetherby Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Wetherby Prison’s urban location in Wetherby offers good connectivity to Leeds, York, and Harrogate.

By Car: From Wetherby town centre, take the A168 northeast to York Road (5 minutes). From Leeds, follow the A1(M) north to Junction 45, then the A168 (20 minutes). From York, take the A1079 west, then the A1(M) south to Junction 45 (25 minutes). The prison is signposted off York 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 Cattal Railway Station, 4 miles away (10-minute taxi). Northern Rail operates services from Leeds (25 minutes) and York (15 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £6–£10. Alternatively, Wetherby Bus Station connects via bus. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus: From Wetherby, the Number 8 bus (Connexions Buses) stops near York Road, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run every 30 minutes, taking 10 minutes from Wetherby Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Connexions Buses website.

How to Book a Visit to Wetherby Prison

Visiting Wetherby Prison requires advance booking and strict security compliance due to its juvenile population. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1937 586400 (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.

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

Life at Wetherby Prison is intense, reflecting the needs of its juvenile and often vulnerable population. Inmates live in single or shared accommodation 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 50% 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 Wetherby Prison

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

• Educational Success: In March 2025, a new IT training programme saw 10 inmates gain qualifications, boosting employability. Yorkshire Post
• Violence Concerns: A February 2025 inspection reported a rise in gang-related assaults, prompting new security protocols. BBC Leeds
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 12% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Wetherby Prison

Who is held at Wetherby Prison?

Wetherby Prison houses juvenile male offenders (15–18) serving detention and training orders or longer sentences.

How can I send money to an inmate?

Supporting an inmate financially is a frequent concern. At Wetherby, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1937 586400 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Wetherby 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 Wetherby 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 juvenile offenders, and Wetherby Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 336 inmates and recent news highlighting progress in IT training alongside challenges like violence, Wetherby is a dynamic facility. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1937 586400 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 York Road address or connect with someone at Wetherby Prison, fostering support and change. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.