Wymott Prison: A Comprehensive Guide to Lancashire’s Male Facility

Located in the rural area of Ulnes Walton, near Leyland, Lancashire, Wymott Prison serves as a key facility in the UK’s prison system, focusing on rehabilitation for male offenders, particularly those convicted of sexual offences. Officially known as HMP Wymott, 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 Wymott 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 Wymott Prison

Wymott Prison, officially HMP Wymott, is a Category C male prison located in Ulnes Walton, near Leyland, Lancashire. Established in 1979, it has a capacity of approximately 1,174 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, Wymott 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 North West and beyond. Recent inspections praise its therapeutic focus but highlight challenges with staff shortages and drug use, positioning Wymott as a critical yet complex facility.

History of Wymott Prison

Wymott Prison opened in 1979 as a Category C prison, built on a former agricultural site to address prison overcrowding in the North West. Its design incorporated rehabilitation spaces, with single and double cells, workshops, and educational facilities. It was re-roled in the 1990s to focus on sex offenders, aligning with the need for specialised treatment facilities.

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 drug smuggling and staffing challenges. Wymott’s history reflects its evolution as a specialised facility, balancing rehabilitation with security.

Wymott Prison Address

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

This address is verified via the GOV.UK website. The prison is located in a rural area, 3 miles west of Leyland, accessible via the B5248.

Wymott Prison Telephone Number

To contact Wymott Prison, use the following number:

Telephone: +44 1772 442000

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.

Wymott Prison Capacity

Wymott Prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,174 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 Wymott Prison: Travel Directions and Transport Links

Wymott Prison’s rural location near Leyland requires planning, but it is accessible by car, bus, or train, with links to Preston, Chorley, and Wigan.

By Car: From Leyland, take the B5248 west to Ulnes Walton Lane (10 minutes). From Preston, follow the A582 south, then the B5248 (15 minutes). From Wigan, take the M6 north to Junction 28, then the B5248 (20 minutes). The prison is signposted off Ulnes Walton 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 Leyland Railway Station, 3 miles away (10-minute taxi). Northern Rail operates services from Preston (10 minutes), Wigan (15 minutes), and Manchester Piccadilly (45 minutes). Taxis from the station cost £6–£10. Check schedules on the Northern Rail website.

By Bus: From Leyland, the Number 111 bus (Stagecoach) stops near Ulnes Walton Lane, a 5-minute walk from the prison. Buses run hourly, taking 15 minutes from Leyland Bus Station. Plan your journey using the Stagecoach website.

How to Book a Visit to Wymott Prison

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

1. Call the Booking Line: Contact +44 1772 442000 (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.

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

Life at Wymott 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 Wymott Prison

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Wymott Prison

Who is held at Wymott Prison?

Wymott 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 Wymott, use the GOV.UK online payment service or send a postal order. Contact +44 1772 442000 for guidance. Cash is not accepted for security reasons.

Is Wymott 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 Wymott 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 Wymott Prison’s focus on rehabilitation makes these connections vital. With a capacity of 1,174 inmates and recent news highlighting successes in therapeutic programmes alongside challenges like staffing shortages, Wymott is a hub of opportunity and complexity. The visiting hours (Tuesday, Thursday, and weekends) and straightforward booking process via +44 1772 442000 enable loved ones to offer support, which can transform an inmate’s journey. We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to the Ulnes Walton Lane address or connect with someone at Wymott Prison, fostering support and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the GOV.UK website.