bullingdon prison visit dress code

Visits & Getting there, HMP Bullingdon

Visits are held at the following times:

• Mon: 14:15 – 15:45
• Tue: 14:15 – 15:45
• Wed: 14:15 – 15:45 – Convicted only
• Thu: 14:15 – 15:45
• Sat: 14:15 – 15:45
• Sun: 14:15 – 15:45 – Convicted only

You can book online, go to www.gov.uk/prison-visits . All you need is the name and date of birth of the person you are visiting , their prisoner number and details of the visitors. You can choose up to 3 possible dates and times. Prison booking staff will check what’s available and confirm your visit by email. You’ll also receive your visiting order (VO) number by email. You must bring this with you when you visit. If you’ve made an online visit booking request and haven’t received a confirmation email within 1-3 working days, email [email protected] or call 01869 353 176. The line is open 09:00 – 16:00 daily

You will not be allowed to take certain items into the prison, such as mobile phones, cigarettes, food and drink etc, and you may be searched before being admitted to the visiting hall. There is a visitors centre run by Arncott Enterprises (01869 353 437) where you can buy refreshments etc before the visit. You should be at the visitors centre 30 mins before your scheduled visit so that you can complete the security formalities in good time.

Getting there:

The nearest train station is Bicester Town, about 6 miles away,on the main line form Birmingham to Marylebone . Click here for timetables .   . There is a regular bus from the station to the prison click here   or there are plenty of cabs.

If driving use OX25 1PZ or Patrick Haugh Road in your sat nav or:

• from M40, leave at junction 9 take the A41 towards Bicester/Aylesbury. At first roundabout, turn right & continue on A41 towards Aylesbury. After approx 1/2 mile, at the next roundabout take the third exit signposted A41 Aylesbury. After approx 1 mile, turn right onto B4011 signposted Thame. Continue for approx 2 miles. HMP Bullingdon is the first right turn after the level crossing.
• from M1, leave at junction 15 take the A508 towards Milton Keynes. At Old Stratford take the A422 to Buckingham and then join the A421 to Bicester. Join the A41 towards Aylesbury and continue as above.

There is call parking at the prison.

Return to Bullingdon

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What to Wear (and Not to Wear) to a Prison Visit

Updated on 7/20/2023.

As you’re probably well aware, keeping in touch with an incarcerated loved one is incredibly important – both for your relationship and for their mental well-being.

While the Pigeonly team has developed a number of services to help people stay in contact with their loved ones as they serve out their jail or prison sentence, we also know that these options pale in comparison to being able to actually visit your loved one – even if only for a short period of time.

Though we’ve provided a guide for visiting incarcerated individuals on our blog in the past, we thought it’d be a good idea to expand on one very important section:

The prison visitor’s dress code.

So, we’re going to dive a bit deeper into exactly what you should – and should not – wear when visiting an incarcerated loved one.

What to Wear – and Not to Wear – During a Visit to Prison

In order to be as explicit as possible, we’re going to break this article into four main sections, each focusing on what can and cannot be worn on a specific part of the body when visiting a loved one in jail or prison.

(For each section, we’ll also be sure to cover what’s acceptable for both men and women.)

Before we get started, one very important thing to mention is that you should be sure that the clothes you wear don’t resemble the color or style of the inmates’ clothing. Be sure to check with prison administration beforehand, as this might preclude you from wearing certain colors that you might not have considered, such as dark green, dark blue, or brown.

Now, without further ado:

Let’s start at the top.

Headwear and Accessories

When it comes to headwear, a good rule of thumb is this:

If you don’t need it, don’t wear it.

Hats, hoods, caps, du-rags, and any other nonessential head covering are prohibited when visiting an incarcerated individual.

(However, individuals who wear head or facial coverings for religious purposes will be allowed to do so. In these cases, the visitor will be brought to a private room before being admitted into the prison, where a guard of the same gender will confirm their identity.)

Accessories such as hair clips, bobby pins, headbands and scrunchies must pass through a metal detector without issue.

Additionally, it’s typically up to the administration’s discretion as to whether such accessories are too “flashy”.

while plain hair-ties and bobby pins will likely be acceptable, hair-related accessories that are meant to call attention to the individual will likely need to be left behind.

Similarly, jewelry such as earrings, nose rings, etc. will typically not be allowed – especially if they don’t pass through a metal detector without issue.

Jewelry or necklaces that are not threatning and are religious most likely will be accepted during your visit.

Again, while modest accessories (such as plain ball or stud earrings) might not be too much of a problem, your best bet is to leave your jewelry at home. Now, let’s move on to more essential articles of clothing.

Upper-Body Clothing

Here’s where things start to get much more gender-specific…

When visiting an incarcerated loved one, men are expected to wear plain, sleeved shirts. Long- or short-sleeved shirts are acceptable – but tank tops and shirts in which the underarm and chest are even partly visible are not.

Sweaters, sports jackets, and suit coats are typically accepted; however, men may be required to hang outerwear such as coats, jackets, and sweatshirts in a locker before being admitted into the prison’s meeting room.

Some typical articles of clothing men should avoid wearing include:

• Graphic T-Shirts (especially those with messages that could be considered vulgar or risque)
• Shirts with multiple pockets
• Zip-ups and hooded shirts (even when the hood is down)

While women must, of course, follow the same restrictions as mentioned above, there are a number of dress code limitations that are more applicable to them, as well.

As we touched on above, women cannot wear shirts that show any amount of their stomach, chest, or shoulders.

This includes spaghetti strap T-shirts, belly shirts, halter tops, and similar tops. While men also are not allowed to wear low-cut V-neck shirts, women should be extra-conservative in this regard, as even mildly low-cut shirts may inadvertently be too revealing.

Both men and women should take caution to ensure that their shirts and tops are in good repair when visiting their incarcerated loved one.

Clothes that are ripped, torn, or frayed may be deemed unacceptable, as they may reveal too much of the individual’s body (even if done so unintentionally).

One last thing to note regarding shirts and tops is that they need to be completely opaque. In other words, visitors should ensure their undershirts and/or bras are not visible through their overshirt or top at all.

Lower-Body Clothing

When it comes to the lower body, prison administrators are typically a bit more lenient – but not by much.

While sweatpants may be allowed, pajama bottoms definitely are not; if your sweatpants resemble PJs in the slightest, you’ll almost certainly be denied entrance to the prison visiting area.

Pants should also fit comfortably around your waist, with or without a belt. Low-riding pants that allow boxers or underwear to be seen are definitely not acceptable.

For men, khakis are your best bet (even jeans may not be accepted). Cargo pants and similar types of bottoms that feature numerous pockets should be avoided; while they might not be completely banned, it will still lead to more of a hassle, both for the guard in charge of searching the visitor and for the visitor themselves. Shorts are usually allowed, but they must reach roughly knee-level.

Why no blue jeans in prison?

The simple answer we can give you is that dress code for the inmates can include blue jeans and to avoid any issues the facilities just prefer visitors not to wear any blue jeans at all. Also to add a bit more some jeans that have metal and won’t pass the detectors. Meaning maybe no visit, and making the line longer.

Again, be sure that there are no rips or tears in your pants – especially around the knee, as well as the backside.

The same rules, of course, apply to women, as well.

While women are allowed to wear shorts, skirts.

Feel free to wear something feminine for your loved one like a dress, Just make sure it has a sleeve and they must at least reach knee lenght.

This will most likely make their day. We would suggest to take an extra pair of clothing JUST IN CASE.

Also talk it out with your loved one because he might not be comfortable with the outfit as other people can be looking at you.

Alright now lets keep moving ahead with tight-fitting bottoms, such as leggings, sweatpants, yoga pants, spandex, and leotard, are prohibited in most prisons and jails, as they present the risk of being too transparent and/or revealing.

Finally – and this probably goes without saying – but bathing suits and lingerie are not acceptable attire when visiting an inmate.

We probably don’t need to get into the rationale behind this, right? Moving on…

Of all the sections of this article, this will be the most straightforward.

Simply put: when visiting a loved one in prison, you must be wearing footwear that completely encases your foot.

Sneakers, dress shoes, walking shoes, boots…as long as no part of your feet are visible, you should have no problem being admitted into the prison’s visiting area.

That said, footwear such as crocs, flip flops, sandals, and open-toed shoes are definitely not allowed.

While most prisons don’t specify any restrictions regarding heeled shoes, it’s best to err on the side of caution here, and opt for flat-soled footwear. As it might come down to the discretion of prison administration, there’s a chance that the team might consider heels – especially high heels – to potentially present a danger to you and to other visitors.

As discussed earlier, be sure that the shoes you wear are in good repair. While this might not be as important as ensuring your clothes aren’t torn or frayed, you still don’t want to give prison staff any reason to turn you away at the door

Lastly – and, again, this probably goes without saying – don’t show up barefoot. Just…don’t.

Wrapping Up

To be sure, dress codes vary depending on the institution you’re visiting, for a variety of reasons.

(For example, a minimum-security prison might not worry much about high heels, while a maximum-security institution might be much more strict in that regard.)

So, while this article has provided a general overview of what you should and should not wear when visiting an incarcerated loved one, you might want to contact the institution’s staff before your visit if you have doubts about a particular part of its dress code.

When in doubt, though, err on the side of caution. At the very least, consider bringing a spare change of clothes to leave in your car if an issue arises.

While you definitely want to look your best when visiting your loved one in prison, it’s much more important to actually be able to visit them in the first place.

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What Is The Dress Code For Visitors Attending Prison Visits?

When visiting a prison , there are specific dress codes that visitors are required to adhere to. These dress codes aim to maintain security, safety, and a respectful environment within the prison setting. While there may be slight variations depending on the individual prison’s policies, here are some general guidelines for dress codes when visiting a prison in the UK:

• Modest and Non-Revealing Clothing: Visitors should wear modest and non-revealing clothing. Avoid wearing clothing that is too tight, transparent, or exposes a significant amount of skin. This includes items such as mini-skirts, low-cut tops, sleeveless shirts, or shorts.
• Smart Casual Attire: The recommended dress code for visitors is typically smart casual attire. This can include trousers or skirts paired with shirts, blouses, or sweaters. Clothing should be clean, in good condition, and free of offensive or inappropriate imagery or messages.
• Avoid Certain Items: Visitors are usually not permitted to wear certain items that may raise security concerns. These can include clothing with metal buttons, excessive jewellery, belts, or items with large buckles. Additionally, visitors may be asked to remove outerwear such as coats, jackets, or hats before entering the prison.
• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are usually required for visitors. It is important to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking as visitors may need to go through security checks or walk through prison facilities.
• Children’s Dress Code: If children are visiting the prison, they are generally expected to follow the same dress code as adults. Parents or guardians should ensure that children are appropriately dressed and adhere to the guidelines mentioned above.

It’s important to note that dress codes can vary between different prisons and may be subject to individual prison policies. Visitors should check with the specific prison they plan to visit to ensure they are aware of any additional dress code requirements or restrictions. Adhering to the dress code helps ensure a smooth visitation process and contributes to a safe and respectful environment within the prison.

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What to Wear on a Prison Visit in the UK: Need To Know

Visiting a loved one or friend in UK prison can be a stressful experience. Following the proper dress code is key to getting approved for visitation. This article provides specifics on what is acceptable and prohibited attire when visiting UK prisons.

Overview of UK Prison Visitation Rules

The UK Prison Service provides guidelines that all visitors must adhere to:

• No revealing, offensive, or provocative clothing
• No blue denim, combat attire, or bright colors
• No tight, sheer, ripped, or holes in clothing
• Avoid excessive jewelry and accessories
• Expect to go through metal detector screening

Rules are enforced by gate security. Visitors in violation of the dress code will be denied entry.

Dress Codes for Women Visitors

Women visiting UK prisons should avoid the following:

• Low cut tops showing excessive cleavage
• See-through or excessively tight garments
• Skirts or shorts shorter than knee-length
• Ripped jeans or jeans with holes
• Leggings, yoga pants, sweat pants
• Brightly colored clothing or prints
• Revealing open back shirts or dresses
• Any clothing with offensive logos, images, or slogans

Instead, ideal choices include:

• Modest dresses or long skirts below the knee
• Dark colored trousers
• Collared blouses or casual shirts
• Cardigans or sweaters
• Comfortable but conservative shoes
• Minimal makeup and jewelry

The key is dressing conservatively and not wearing anything form-fitting or provocative.

Dress Codes for Men Visitors

Male visitors should similarly avoid:

• Ripped or overly casual jeans
• Shorts of any kind
• Athletic wear including track pants and hoodies
• Sleeveless vests or tank tops
• Brightly colored clothing
• Clothing with offensive slogans or images
• Excessive jewelry like chains or oversized watches

Recommended options include:

• Button down shirts or polos
• Trousers including chinos, slacks, khakis
• Simple shoes like loafers
• Dark colored jumpers or cardigans
• A belt with shirt tucked in

Conservative, clean-cut attire is required. Business casual is ideal.

Rules for Children’s Clothing

If bringing children along:

• No overly revealing clothing
• Avoid bright colors that could denote gang affiliation
• No clothing with controversial images or wording
• No ripped or tight jeans
• Leggings must be worn under dress or skirt
• Onesies acceptable for infants

Comfortable play outfits are fine as long as they meet guidelines.

Banned Clothing Items

The following are expressly prohibited:

• Blue denim  – Not permitted under any circumstance due to gang connotations
• Camouflage  – Banned for security reasons
• Sports team attire  – Jersey shirts or team logos are restricted
• Hats and hoods  – Must be removed for security screening
• Coats and jackets  – Outerwear must be stored in lockers

Leave any clothing falling into these categories at home.

Tips for Finding Approved Outfits

• Shop for dress code suitable items well in advance of your scheduled visit
• Look for wardrobe staples in dark, neutral colors
• Avoid latest fashion trends and any provocative styles
• Try on outfits and test flexibility – make sure nothing is too tight or revealing when bending over or reaching
• Scarves, shawls, and ties should be simple with no controversial images/logos

Give yourself plenty of options accounting for weather and last minute issues.

Screening Process at Check-In

At prison check-in, visitors go through multiple security checks:

• ID verification  – Photo ID is checked against approved visitors list
• Metal detector  – Scan screens for prohibited items
• Pat down  – Guests may undergo further physical inspection
• Dress code check  – Outfits are reviewed for violations
• Contraband check  – Bags, coats, gifts are carefully searched

If any contraband is found or dress code violated, visitation is denied.

Consequences of Wearing Unapproved Outfits

If your attire violates prison visitation policies, these are the consequences:

• Denied entry with no visit that day
• Future visits may be blocked or require re-approval
• Embarrassment and frustration after long journeys to the prison
• Letting down the incarcerated loved one expecting the visit
• Wasted time and money making the trip to the facility

Avoid this by carefully adhering to the dress code.

Visiting loved ones in UK prisons comes with a strict dress code. Following the conservative clothing guidelines helps ensure a smooth entry process and a successful visit. Leave prohibited items like ripped jeans or hoodies at home. Both male and female visitors should opt for modest, non-revealing choices absent of logos and bright colors. Dress for a formal occasion to respect facilities’ security needs. Focus your visit on connecting with your incarcerated family or friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every uk prison have the same visitation dress code.

Generally yes, since policies come from Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service. But always check your specific prison’s website for any facility-specific variations.

Can I just wear whatever is comfortable?

No, prisons have very strict dress code rules that exclude casual and revealing clothing for security reasons. Following them is mandatory for getting approved to visit.

Do the rules differ for solicitors or professional visitors?

Solicitors and professionals may have slightly more leniency but should still avoid casual wear. Check with the specific prison for guidelines.

Can I change clothes if denied for my outfit?

Usually not; once denied entry you will not be allowed to visit that day. Come appropriately dressed the first time to avoid this.

Can I wear jewelry?

Minimal jewelry like a simple necklace, rings, stud earrings are OK but avoid anything excessive. Bangles, chains, hoops may show up on the metal detector.

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Bullingdon Prison Information

Contact information, booking a visit to bullingdon prison.

Unlimited Prison Phone Calls Package

• Monday : No visits
• Tuesday: 14.00-16.00
• Wednesday: 14.00-16.00
• Thursday: 14.00-16.00
• Friday: No visits
• Sunday: 14.00-16.00

• The weekly online and monthly printed national newspaper for prisoners and detainees

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Hmp bullingdon.

• Inside Time Reports
• 13th December 2014
• Male Cat. C , Prison Visit , South Central

Prison information

Address: HMP Bullingdon, Patrick Haugh Road Bicester Oxfordshire OX25 1PZ Switchboard: 01869 353100 Managed by: HMPPS Region:  South Central Category:  Cat B Local Link to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bullingdon-prison

Description

Bullingdon prison operates as an adult male Cat ‘C’ training prison with a Cat ‘B’ local function.

Visit Booking: Online

Use this online service to book a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales you need the:

• prisoner number
• prisoner’s date of birth
• dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can book a visit.

You’ll get an email confirming your visit. It takes 1 to 3 days.

ID: Every visit

Children’s Visits:

Acceptable forms of ID

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Prison Inspectorates Reports

Probation Service Reports

Prisons and Probations Ombudsman

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If you have any information that you would like to be included or see anything that needs updating, contact Gary Bultitude at  [email protected]

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• 24th January 2017

HMYOI WARREN HILL

• 4th January 2015

11 thoughts on “ HMP BULLINGDON ”

Bullingdon is absolutely disgusting my son got sent there he had no induction,no first phone call we didn’t even know where he was until an officer rang us the following day and lied to us saying he was his offender manager.their computer system said he was in for one thing but he was there for something completely different.the staff aren’t helpful,there’s no help for the inmates because staff can’t be bothered to help them . the place is rife with spice and other drugs all in all a disgusting establishment that should be closed down.

Hi my husband is in Bullingdon what day do they get there canteen sheets? How long does it take for transferred money to appear in your spends? When can you put calling credit on? Please can somebody help me me thanks

Hi has anybody have the email address at bullingdon prison.so i can email my brother please thankyou

Google email a prisioner, you need to sign up to the site, this will allow you to select the prison and input your brothers details. You will credit on to pay for the email but it’s a very easy site to use and provides a great service. Hope this helps

Hi I am just wondering if prisoners get the chance to have day release from prison tag etc given if needed as would like for a prisoner with not to much time left on his sentence to be able to come out and see his sister and baby nephew for the first time as they are from overseas also it’s a holy day for the prisoner soon how do I go about arranging this if it can be arranged thank you Catherine Parker

I am really not happy about the telephoning booking line to book a visit it took me 85 times to try one day and it was engaged all the time when I did get through and waited for 1/4 hour to get the message saying the booking line is now closed really up setting needs more telephone lines to book a visit no need for this at all

my son got sent there monday no reception visit which i thought was allowed he shut his hand in cell door was given ibupofen but screws refused to let him get from medical room wasnt given food on arrival fuming is an understatement sent money in for canteen but said it takes 24 hrs to clear and he has 50p for canteen next week so going to be 2 wks be for he can get canteen and they wonder while the jails are in up roar

Even though when you book online it states your visit is 2hr 10 minutes thus isn’t true. Visiting times are 2.15pm until 3.45pm. If you get a high booking number you won’t get your full visit. I was number 68 once & by the time I got to the visting hall I only had 40 minutes of the visit left.

My fiancé has recently been sent to bullingdon from another prison and I’m extremely unhappy what he has told me. He is on medication and it’s important he gets on time as if he don’t his leg will swell and it’s very painful and he told me he was left without his medication for hours and he asked for assistance and staff just left him. This is a disgrace, and he also told me that there is only 1 working shower and it’s not hot water. And it’s very dirty there. Considering this is a newish prison I’m disgusted the way hygiene is and how he is left without his medication. I wanted to write to you to let you know what is going on but I will be making a complaint to the prison Service

What number do I call to arrange a visit to bullingdon My son is in remand

Bullingdon You can exchange up to £20 for vouchers now. It was £15

Editorial Comment: Thank you for that information. We have up-dated our information.

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Prison Dress Code: What to Wear When Visiting a Loved One

01/19/2015 by Editor

Visiting a Loved One: Prison Dress Code

Most facilities have a dress code so you should know what is acceptable to wear when visiting a loved one in prison. Make sure that you know the facility’s rules for acceptable clothing. Yes, there is such a thing as prison dress code!

There are certain clothes and shoes that you can wear, and certain clothes and shoes that you should not wear. Even certain colors may not be allowed in a prison. These rules can also vary from prison to prison, so make sure you review the facility’s website or call them to find out what is appropriate. Listed below are some dress rules on what to wear when you are visiting a loved one in prison. It is also a good idea to bring extra clothes in case what you are wearing is not deemed appropriate. It will be up to the interpretation of the guard on duty as to what is appropriate for that facility. It is important that you understand that you can be denied visitation if you are not deemed dressed appropriately.

Some dress rules for what to wear when visiting your loved one in prison (but check with the facility you are going to):

• No sleeveless shirts, halter tops, tank tops, revealing or low cut tops
• No camouflage clothing
• Beware of certain colors that might be affiliated with local gangs
• Do not wear same colors as the inmates (so you are not mistaken as an inmate)
• No Shorts or short dresses
• No flip-flops

Remember that visiting your loved one in prison is a privilege and it is up to you to follow the rules. There are not a lot of things you have control over when you are visiting your loved one in prison. This is one rule that you do have control over as you decide what to wear on that day. This is also one of the easiest rules to follow.

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Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Prison the Hidden Sentence with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

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Pentonville Prison

Pentonville is a men’s prison and young offender institution in the London Borough of Islington, North London.

Applies to England and Wales

Help us to improve this page. Give us your feedback in this 2-minute survey .

Book and plan your visit to Pentonville

To visit someone in Pentonville you must:

• be on that person’s visitor list
• book your visit at least 24 hours in advance
• have the required ID with you when you go

Up to 3 visitors over the age of 12 are allowed at a time, plus children under 12. At least one visitor must be 18 or older at every visit.

There may be a limit to the number of visits a person can have. You can check this with Pentonville.

Contact Pentonville if you have any questions about visiting.

Help with the cost of your visit

If you get certain benefits or have an NHS health certificate, you might be able to get help with the costs of your visit , including:

• travel to Pentonville
• somewhere to stay overnight

How to book family and friends visits

You can book your visit by telephone.

Telephone booking line: 0300 060 6504 Find out about call charges

The booking line is open:

• Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm

Visiting times:

• Monday: 1:45pm to 2:40pm and 3:20pm to 4:15pm
• Tuesday: 1:45pm to 2:40pm and 3:20pm to 4:15pm
• Wednesday: 1:45pm to 2:40pm and 3:20pm to 4:15pm
• Thursday: 1:45pm to 2:40pm and 3:20pm to 4:15pm
• Friday: 1:45pm to 2:40pm and 3:20pm to 4:15pm
• Saturday: 10:30am to 11:30am and 3pm to 4pm
• Sunday: Enhanced Visit only 2:30pm to 4:30pm (in-house booking only by prisoner)

You will not be admitted if you are more than half an hour late.

Visits are provided on a wing basis within a 6 week cycle. The new cycles are published on the wings for prisoners attention and shared with the booking line.

How to book legal and professional visits

You can book a legal or professional visit by emailing [email protected] .

• Face-to-face visits: Monday to Friday 9am to 11am
• Video link legal visits: 1 hour slots from 9am to 4pm. Please note there is a staff break between 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Getting to Pentonville

Find Pentonville on a map

Pentonville is a 5-minute walk from Caledonian Road underground station or Caledonian Road and Barnsbury overground station. The closest mainline railway station is London King’s Cross. Several local bus routes pass the prison such as Bus 17, 91, 259 and 274.

To plan your journey by public transport:

• use Transport for London journey planner
• use National Rail Enquiries

There is no visitor parking at the prison and local roads are restricted to permit holders.

Entering Pentonville

All visitors, aged 16 or older must prove their identity before entering the prison. Read the list of acceptable forms of ID when visiting a prison .

Children under 16 should bring their full birth certificate.

All visitors will need to be given a pat-down search, including children. You may also be sniffed by security dogs.

Pentonville has a strict dress code policy which means visitors should dress appropriately. You will be turned away if you are wearing items such as hoodies, vests, low-cut tops, high-cut shorts or dresses, ripped jeans, flip-flops or headwear other than for religious reasons. Additionally, you cannot wear anything with offensive patterns or slogans, football shirts, steel toe-capped boots or motorcycle boots. You will need to remove coats, hats, gloves, metal accessories, sunglasses, and smart watches before you go in. Ask in the visitors’ centre if you have questions about the dress code.

There will be refreshments available during your visit. You will have to pay for your choice at the Visitors Centre where you will be given a token to present at the tea bar.

You are only allowed to take into the prison the following items:

• Your proof of identification
• Your token for refreshment
• Feeding bottle for baby
• A signed disclaimer form

You will be told the rules by an officer at the start of your visit. If you break the rules, your visit could be cancelled, and you could be banned from visiting again. Trafficking in unauthorised items is prohibited. If there is any suspicion or you are caught, this will lead to a minimum ban of 3 months and the prisoner will be placed on closed visits for the same period.

Visiting facilities

There is a visitors centre run by the Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT) charity. Family and friends can relax and get advice and support from the staff.

It is open Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 4:30pm and on Sunday from 12:30pm to 4:30pm.

Email: [email protected] Telephone: 020 7700 0912 Find out about call charges

There are lockers in the visitors centre to store your belongings. These take tokens which you can get for £1 from the visitors centre staff.

Family days

Family days are now running, and it is only applicable to those prisoners on Enhance IEP levels. Family days are delivered on each wing’s Sunday enhanced visit day on a rota basis. Enhance IEP prisoners are given the opportunity to apply for it when it is their wing’s session.

Keep in touch with someone at Pentonville

There are several ways you can keep in touch with a prisoner during their time at Pentonville.

Secure video calls

To have a secure video call with someone in this prison you need to:

• Download the Prison Video app
• Create an account
• Register all visitors
• Add the prisoner to your contact list.

How to book a secure video call

Secure video calls at this prison can be requested by prisoners only.

You will receive a notification if a prisoner has requested a video call with you.

Read more about how it works

Phone calls

Prisoners do have phones in their cells so they can always call at their own convenience. They need to buy phone credits to do this.

They can phone anyone named on their list of friends and family. This list is checked by security when they first arrive so it may take a few days before they are able to call.

You can also exchange voicemails using the Prison Voicemail service.

Officers may listen to phone calls as a way of preventing crime and helping keep people safe.

You can send emails to someone in Pentonville using the Email a Prisoner service .

You might also be able to attach photos and receive replies from the prisoner, depending on the rules at Pentonville.

You can write at any time.

Include the person’s name and prisoner number on the envelope.

If you do not know their prisoner number, contact Pentonville .

All post apart from legal letters will be opened and checked by officers.

HMP/YOI Pentonville Caledonian Road London N7 8TT

Send money and gifts

You can use the free and fast online service to send money to someone in prison .

You can no longer send money by bank transfer, cheque, postal order or send cash by post.

If you cannot use the online service, you may be able to apply for an exemption - for example if you:

• are unable to use a computer, a smart phone or the internet
• do not have a debit card

This will allow you to send money by post.

Gifts and parcels

When a person first arrives at Pentonville they are given a parcel label and delivery form. These can be used by a family member or friend to send a parcel into the prison. The delivery form describes what items are allowed and how to correctly label the parcel. There is a maximum weight limit of 15kg.

Prisoners are allowed one parcel every 6 months.

Family and friends can hand books in for prisoners at the visitors centre before any visit, send books directly to their loved ones, or can order books from approved retailers, which can source and send the books on to prisoners.   For the full list of approved retailers, you can read the HMPPS Incentives Policy, Annex F .

Prisoners on the ‘enhanced’ behaviour level can also apply for a family member or friend to send them a games console and games.

All parcels will be opened and checked by officers.

Contact Pentonville for more information on sending parcels.

Life at Pentonville

Pentonville is committed to providing a safe and educational environment where prisoners can learn new skills to help them on release.

Security and safeguarding

Every person at Pentonville has a right to feel safe. The staff are responsible for their safeguarding and welfare at all times.

For further information about what to do when you are worried or concerned about someone in prison visit the Prisoners’ Families helpline website .

Pentonville also trains prisoners to be ‘listeners’ to help support other prisoners going through difficult times.

Arrival and first night

When a prisoner first arrives at Pentonville, they will be able to contact a family member by phone. This could be quite late in the evening, depending on the time they arrive.

They will get to speak to someone who will check how they’re feeling, and see a medical professional to address any immediate health and wellbeing needs.

Each person who arrives at Pentonville gets an induction that lasts 4 days. They will meet professionals who will help them with:

• health and wellbeing, including mental and sexual health
• any substance misuse issues, including drugs and alcohol
• personal development in custody and on release, including skills, education and training
• other support (sometimes called ‘interventions’), such as managing difficult emotions

Everyone also finds out about the rules, fire safety, and how things like calls and visits work.

Accommodation

Around 1,300 prisoners live at Pentonville in a mixture of single and shared cells across 7 wings.

There are 4 gym areas offering a range of activities for prisoners of all physical abilities.

Pentonville runs a multi-faith chaplaincy service which offers religious services and teaching to all prisoners, whatever their faith. They also provide counselling and support to prisoners.

Education and work

Prisoners have access to education and training provided by Novus .

All prisoners are offered help improving their literacy, numeracy and language skills and can study for qualifications in a broad range of work-related subjects, including:

• information and communications technology (ICT)
• health and safety
• painting and decorating
• industrial cleaning
• radio production
• customer services
• food safety

Pentonville runs 2 workshops providing employment for prisoners. The textiles workshop produces bedding for prisons and the recycling workshop recycles waste from within the prison. There are also many roles available throughout Pentonville, including cleaning, orderly duties, catering and barbering.

Organisations Pentonville works with

Pentonville works with Catch 22 , a not-for-profit business, to help prisoners with gang involvement and related issues.

Support for family and friends

Find out about advice and helplines for family and friends .

Support at Pentonville

The Prison Advice and Care Trust (PACT) and Phoenix Futures provide individual support with a range of issues including family estrangement, child contact and social services.

To get help with a family issue, email [email protected] .

Concerns, problems and complaints

In an emergency.

Call 02070 237 000 if you think a prisoner is at immediate risk of harm. Ask for the Orderly Officer and explain that your concern is an emergency.

Problems and complaints

If you have a problem contact Pentonville .

Inspection reports

HM Prison and Probation Service publishes action plans for Pentonville in response to independent inspections.

Contact Pentonville

Governor: Ian Blakeman

Telephone: 020 7023 7000 Fax: 020 7023 7001 Find out about call charges

Opening hours updated for visits booking telephone line.

Secure video calls update.

Updated visiting guidance based on 1 April COVID rule changes

Added link to new safer custody information under Security and safeguarding.

Updated visiting information: Testing for visitors aged 12 and over.

Added link to information about testing for physical contact at visits.

New visiting times and booking information added.

Prison moved into National Stage 3 framework and is now preparing to open visits for family, friends and significant others. We will update this page with specific visiting information as soon as possible.

visits update

Updated visit info

Updated visiting information in line with new national restrictions in England.

Covid update

Updated visiting times and visiting procedure changes in line with coronavirus restrictions.

Added confirmation of secure video calls being made available at this prison.

added survey link

First published.

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Work as a prison officer at Bullingdon Prison

We’re not currently recruiting prison officers at bullingdon prison.

We can let you know when vacancies open.

Why work as a prison officer at HMP Bullingdon?

About HMP Bullingdon

Five miles outside the historic market town of Bicester in Oxfordshire, HMP Bullingdon is a local resettlement prison with a capacity of 1,100.

It accommodates men at the start of their time in custody and as they prepare to transition back to their communities. It also supervises people on short sentences (under 12 months) and individuals on remand.

Inside HMP Bullingdon

HMP Bullingdon is a busy prison, with prisoners arriving and leaving every day.

Making positive changes

On arrival, each prisoner is quickly assessed to determine what support they need to help them get the most out of their time in custody and to reduce their chances of reoffending.

This includes helping them learn new skills to increase their employability. One of HMP Bullingdon’s main aims is that all prisoners have a job to go to when they return to their communities.

Learning new skills

Prisoners have access to a wide range of education, training and work opportunities, including:

• studying for qualifications in basic skills such as English and Maths, and distance learning through the Open University
• training in a range of trades and professions such as printing, industrial cleaning, information and communications technology (ICT) and business skills
• working in one of the onsite prison workshops or learning grounds work and horticultural skills in the prison gardens

Staff benefits

As an employee of HMP Bullingdon, you’ll have access to a range of facilities and employee benefits including:

• use of a free onsite gym
• free onsite parking
• excellent training and career progression
• occupational health services, including physiotherapy and counselling support

This is in addition to the  great benefits you get from being a part of HM Prison and Probation Service .

How to get to HMP Bullingdon

With plenty of on-site parking, HMP Bullingdon is just 5 miles from Bicester and a 30-minute drive from Oxford.

There’s a regular bus service from Bicester station and taxis available outside the station.

Find HMP Bullingdon on a map (opens in a new tab)

A word from the Governor at HMP Bullingdon

Find out more about the prison officer role

An extraordinary job.

Done by someone like you.