HMP Belmarsh is a high-security Category A prison in Thamesmead, south-east London. It holds some of the UK's most high-profile prisoners and includes a significant remand population.
About HMP Belmarsh
HMP Belmarsh is a Category A male establishment situated in London, Greater London, within the London region. Operated by HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), the prison has an operational capacity of approximately 910 and has been in operation since 1991.
Category A is the highest security classification. These prisons hold individuals whose escape would pose the most serious threat to the public, police, or national security. Security measures include thorough searches, CCTV, and restricted movement.
How to Visit HMP Belmarsh
If you want to visit someone at HMP Belmarsh, you'll first need to be placed on the prisoner's approved visitor list. The prisoner themselves will need to submit your details — including your full name, date of birth, and address — for a basic security check. This process can take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the prison.
Once you've been approved, you can book visits in one of two ways:
- Online: Use the GOV.UK prison visit booking service — it's free and available 24/7
- By phone: Call HMP Belmarsh directly on 020 8331 4400 during working hours
On the day of your visit, make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes before your allocated time. You'll need to bring valid photo ID (passport, driving licence, or national identity card). There are restrictions on what you can bring into the prison — generally no phones, cameras, or electronic devices are allowed. Most prisons allow a small amount of cash for the vending machines in the visits hall.
Contacting HMP Belmarsh
You can reach HMP Belmarsh by phone on 020 8331 4400. Phone lines are typically open Monday to Friday during standard office hours. For written correspondence, the postal address is:
If you need to send money to someone at HMP Belmarsh, the easiest method is through the GOV.UK Send Money to a Prisoner service. It's free and takes just a few minutes online.
Sending Items to Prisoners at Belmarsh
Rules on sending items vary by prison, but generally you cannot send parcels directly to prisoners. Most prisons use an approved catalogue system where prisoners can order items using money in their prison account. Some establishments allow books to be sent via approved retailers such as Amazon or Blackwell's — but always check with the prison first by calling 020 8331 4400.
Phone Calls at HMP Belmarsh
Prisoners at HMP Belmarsh can make outgoing calls using the prison phone system (typically BT or a dedicated provider). They'll need credit on their phone account, which can be topped up by family and friends. Calls to UK landlines generally cost around 1p per minute, while mobile calls are more expensive. For more detail on costs, see our guide on how much prison phone calls cost.
Prisoners cannot receive incoming calls. All outgoing calls (except those to legal representatives) are recorded and may be monitored.
Frequently Asked Questions About HMP Belmarsh
What category is HMP Belmarsh?
HMP Belmarsh is classified as a Category A prison. Category A is the highest security classification. These prisons hold individuals whose escape would pose the most serious threat to the public, police, or national security.
What is the capacity of HMP Belmarsh?
The prison has an operational capacity of approximately 910 prisoners. This number represents the certified normal accommodation plus any additional temporary beds. Actual population levels can fluctuate and sometimes exceed capacity.
How do I contact HMP Belmarsh?
You can call HMP Belmarsh on 020 8331 4400 during weekday working hours. For written correspondence, address letters to the prisoner's full name and prison number at Western Way, Thamesmead, London, SE28 0EB.
How do I book a visit to HMP Belmarsh?
First, you need to be on the prisoner's approved visitor list. Once approved, book online at gov.uk/prison-visits or call 020 8331 4400. For more detailed information, see our guide on how to book a prison visit.
Who runs HMP Belmarsh?
HMP Belmarsh is operated by HMPPS. HM Prison and Probation Service is an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice, responsible for running most prisons in England and Wales.