HMP Guys Marsh is a Category C training prison in Dorset. It provides workshops, education, and drug rehabilitation programmes.
About HMP Guys Marsh
HMP Guys Marsh is a Category C male establishment situated in Shaftesbury, Dorset, within the South West region. Operated by HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), the prison has an operational capacity of approximately 578 and has been in operation since 1960.
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 Guys Marsh
If you want to visit someone at HMP Guys Marsh, 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 Guys Marsh directly on 01747 856700 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 Guys Marsh
You can reach HMP Guys Marsh by phone on 01747 856700. 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 Guys Marsh, 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 Guys Marsh
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 01747 856700.
Phone Calls at HMP Guys Marsh
Prisoners at HMP Guys Marsh 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 Guys Marsh
What category is HMP Guys Marsh?
HMP Guys Marsh 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 Guys Marsh?
The prison has an operational capacity of approximately 578 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 Guys Marsh?
You can call HMP Guys Marsh on 01747 856700 during weekday working hours. For written correspondence, address letters to the prisoner's full name and prison number at Guys Marsh, Shaftesbury, Shaftesbury, SP7 0AH.
How do I book a visit to HMP Guys Marsh?
First, you need to be on the prisoner's approved visitor list. Once approved, book online at gov.uk/prison-visits or call 01747 856700. For more detailed information, see our guide on how to book a prison visit.
Who runs HMP Guys Marsh?
HMP Guys Marsh 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.