HMP Liverpool, known locally as Walton Prison, is a Category B local prison serving courts across Merseyside. It has undergone recent refurbishment.
About HMP Liverpool
HMP Liverpool is a Category B male establishment situated in Liverpool, Merseyside, within the North West region. Operated by HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), the prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,198 and has been in operation since 1855.
Category B prisons hold those who don't require maximum security, but for whom escape still needs to be made very difficult. Many local prisons that serve courts fall into this category, holding both remand and sentenced prisoners.
How to Visit HMP Liverpool
If you want to visit someone at HMP Liverpool, 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 Liverpool directly on 0151 530 4000 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 Liverpool
You can reach HMP Liverpool by phone on 0151 530 4000. 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 Liverpool, 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 Liverpool
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 0151 530 4000.
Phone Calls at HMP Liverpool
Prisoners at HMP Liverpool 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 Liverpool
What category is HMP Liverpool?
HMP Liverpool is classified as a Category B prison. Category B prisons hold those who don't require maximum security, but for whom escape still needs to be made very difficult. Many local prisons that serve courts fall into this category, holding both remand and sentenced prisoners.
What is the capacity of HMP Liverpool?
The prison has an operational capacity of approximately 1,198 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 Liverpool?
You can call HMP Liverpool on 0151 530 4000 during weekday working hours. For written correspondence, address letters to the prisoner's full name and prison number at 68 Hornby Road, Walton, Liverpool, L9 3DF.
How do I book a visit to HMP Liverpool?
First, you need to be on the prisoner's approved visitor list. Once approved, book online at gov.uk/prison-visits or call 0151 530 4000. For more detailed information, see our guide on how to book a prison visit.
Who runs HMP Liverpool?
HMP Liverpool 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.