Whatton Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Nottinghamshire’s Male Facility

Located in the rural village of Whatton, near Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Whatton Prison serves as a specialised facility in the UK’s prison system, focusing on rehabilitation for male offenders, particularly those convicted of sexual offences. Officially known as HMP Whatton, this Category C prison offers a structured environment with an emphasis on treatment 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 Whatton 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 Whatton Prison

Whatton Prison, officially HMP Whatton, is a Category C male prison located in Whatton, near Nottingham, Nottinghamshire. Established in 1960, it has a capacity of approximately 841 inmates. The facility primarily houses adult male prisoners serving medium to long-term sentences, with a focus on those convicted of sexual offences, offering rehabilitation through education and therapeutic programmes.

Managed by His Majesty’s Prison Service, Whatton is known for its specialised treatment programmes, including sex offender treatment and vocational training, supported by facilities like classrooms and therapy rooms. While no high-profile inmates have been widely publicised in recent years, the prison serves a specific population from the East Midlands and beyond. Recent inspections praise its therapeutic focus but highlight challenges with staff shortages and infrastructure, positioning Whatton as a critical yet complex facility.

History of Whatton Prison

Whatton Prison opened in 1960 as a detention centre, later re-roled as a Category C prison in the 1980s to focus on sex offenders, addressing the need for specialised treatment facilities. Its design incorporated rehabilitation spaces, with single and double cells, workshops, and educational facilities, adapting the original site to modern needs.

Key milestones include the introduction of sex offender treatment programmes in the 1990s and expansions to its educational facilities in the 2000s. Inspections in the 1980s noted issues with infrastructure, leading to refurbishments in 1995 and 2015. A 2023 HM Inspectorate of Prisons report commended its treatment programmes but flagged concerns about staff shortages and drug smuggling. Whatton’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised facility, balancing rehabilitation with security.

Whatton Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 10 miles east of Nottingham, accessible via the A52.

Whatton Prison Telephone Number

To contact Whatton Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1949 803200

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.

Whatton Prison Capacity

Whatton Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 841 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 Whatton Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Whatton Prison’s rural location near Nottingham requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or limited train connections, with links to Nottingham, Grantham, and Newark.

By Car: From Nottingham, take the A52 east to New Lane (20 minutes). From Grantham, follow the A52 west (25 minutes). From Newark, take the A46 south, then the A52 (15 minutes). The prison is signposted off New Lane.

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

By Train: The nearest station is Aslockton Railway Station, 2 miles away (5-minute taxi or 10-minute walk). East Midlands Railway operates services from Nottingham (15 minutes), Grantham (15 minutes), and Leicester (30 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £5–£8. Check schedules on the East Midlands Railway website.

By Bus: From Nottingham, the Number 90 bus (Nottingham City Transport) stops near Whatton, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run hourly, taking 30 minutes from Nottingham Bus Station. Plan your journey using the NCT website.

How to Book a Visit to Whatton Prison

Visiting Whatton Prison requires advance booking and compliance with security protocols due to its specialised population. Follow these steps:

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1949 803200 (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.

Whatton 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 limited refreshments. Check for holiday schedule changes or COVID-19 measures (e.g., masks).

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

Life at Whatton Prison is structured to balance rehabilitation and security, with a focus on addressing offending behaviour, particularly for those convicted of sexual offences. Inmates live in single or double cells across residential units, with access to education (e.g., literacy, IT), vocational training (e.g., catering, maintenance), and specialised therapeutic programmes like sex offender treatment. Facilities include a library, gym, and limited outdoor areas, with 6–8 hours of daily out-of-cell time when staffing allows.

A 2023 inspection found that 70% of inmates felt safe, with drug use and occasional violence posing challenges, with around 80 assault incidents in 2024. Mental health support is a priority but strained, with self-harm rates above average due to the complex needs of the population. Positive aspects include therapeutic programmes and family contact initiatives, which help inmates maintain ties. Inmates describe a focused environment, with therapy offering a path to change, though staffing shortages (down 10% in 2024) can disrupt progress.

Recent News About Whatton Prison

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

• Therapeutic Programme Success: In March 2025, Whatton’s sex offender treatment programme supported 15 inmates in addressing offending behaviour. Nottingham Post
• Drug Smuggling Crackdown: A February 2025 operation reduced contraband smuggling, though drug issues persist. BBC Nottinghamshire
• Staff Shortages: A January 2025 report noted a 10% staff shortage, impacting programme delivery, with recruitment ongoing. HM Inspectorate of Prisons

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Whatton Prison

Who is held at Whatton Prison?

Whatton Prison houses adult male prisoners, primarily those convicted of sexual offences, 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 Whatton, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1949 803200 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Whatton 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 therapeutic programmes, including literacy, catering, and sex offender treatment, though availability varies.

How safe is Whatton Prison?

Safety is moderate, with 70% of inmates feeling safe in 2023. Drug use and occasional violence are concerns, but therapeutic programmes are improving conditions.

HMPrisonguide.co.uk Personal Overview

At HMPrisonguide.co.uk, we believe that family support can inspire hope and change, and Whatton Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 841 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in therapeutic programmes alongside challenges like staffing shortages, Whatton is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1949 803200 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the New Lane address or connect with someone at Whatton Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.