HMP Wakefield is a high-security Category A prison known as Monster Mansion due to the number of high-profile offenders it holds. It is one of the oldest prisons in the country.
About HMP Wakefield
HMP Wakefield is a Category A male establishment situated in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, within the Yorkshire & Humber region. Operated by HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), the prison has an operational capacity of approximately 750 and has been in operation since 1594.
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 Wakefield
If you want to visit someone at HMP Wakefield, 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 Wakefield directly on 01924 612000 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 Wakefield
You can reach HMP Wakefield by phone on 01924 612000. 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 Wakefield, 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 Wakefield
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 01924 612000.
Phone Calls at HMP Wakefield
Prisoners at HMP Wakefield 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 Wakefield
What category is HMP Wakefield?
HMP Wakefield 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 Wakefield?
The prison has an operational capacity of approximately 750 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 Wakefield?
You can call HMP Wakefield on 01924 612000 during weekday working hours. For written correspondence, address letters to the prisoner's full name and prison number at 5 Love Lane, Wakefield, Wakefield, WF2 9AG.
How do I book a visit to HMP Wakefield?
First, you need to be on the prisoner's approved visitor list. Once approved, book online at gov.uk/prison-visits or call 01924 612000. For more detailed information, see our guide on how to book a prison visit.
Who runs HMP Wakefield?
HMP Wakefield 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.