HMP Brixton is one of the oldest prisons in England, operating as a Category C training prison in south London. It focuses on resettlement and rehabilitation programmes.
About HMP Brixton
HMP Brixton is a Category C 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 798 and has been in operation since 1820.
Category C establishments are training prisons. Inmates here cannot be trusted in open conditions, but are considered unlikely to make a determined escape attempt. These prisons typically offer education, vocational training, and rehabilitation programmes.
How to Visit HMP Brixton
If you want to visit someone at HMP Brixton, 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 Brixton directly on 020 8588 6000 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 Brixton
You can reach HMP Brixton by phone on 020 8588 6000. 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 Brixton, 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 Brixton
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 8588 6000.
Phone Calls at HMP Brixton
Prisoners at HMP Brixton 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 Brixton
What category is HMP Brixton?
HMP Brixton is classified as a Category C prison. Category C establishments are training prisons. Inmates here cannot be trusted in open conditions, but are considered unlikely to make a determined escape attempt.
What is the capacity of HMP Brixton?
The prison has an operational capacity of approximately 798 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 Brixton?
You can call HMP Brixton on 020 8588 6000 during weekday working hours. For written correspondence, address letters to the prisoner's full name and prison number at Jebb Avenue, Brixton, London, SW2 5XF.
How do I book a visit to HMP Brixton?
First, you need to be on the prisoner's approved visitor list. Once approved, book online at gov.uk/prison-visits or call 020 8588 6000. For more detailed information, see our guide on how to book a prison visit.
Who runs HMP Brixton?
HMP Brixton 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.