Barlinnie Prison Information

Barlinnie Prison
Barlinnie Prison, officially known as HMP Barlinnie, is a prominent correctional facility located in the Riddrie area of Glasgow, Scotland. Established in 1882, it has gained a reputation as one of the country's most infamous prisons. Barlinnie has a long and storied history, housing some of Scotland's most dangerous and high-profile criminals. This information page provides an overview of Barlinnie Prison, its history, facilities, and its role within the Scottish criminal justice system.

Barlinnie Prison was constructed in response to the growing need for a modern penal institution in Glasgow during the late 19th century. It replaced the outdated Duke Street Prison and was designed to accommodate around 1,400 prisoners. Over the years, Barlinnie has undergone numerous renovations and expansions to cope with the increasing prison population.

Barlinnie Prison has gained notoriety due to its association with notorious criminals and incidents. It has housed some of Scotland's most infamous criminals, including murderers, serial killers, and organized crime figures. The prison's tough reputation is largely attributed to its historical high-security status and the presence of dangerous and violent offenders.

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Contact Information
HMP Barlinnie
81 Lee Avenue,
Riddrie,
Glasgow
G33 2QX

Tel: 01417 702000

Website: HM Prison Altcourse
Booking a visit to Barlinnie Prison
How to book a visit at HM Prison Barlinnie

Convicted offender’s visits are booked by the offenders and it’s their responsibility to inform their families/friends of the date and time. They are entitled to not less than 2 hours in any 28 day period.

Remand visits at Barlinnie are booked by prisoner’s families, calling the direct booking line on 0141 770 2109 (Weekdays 9am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm / Saturdays 9am to 1pm). Remand prisoners may have one visit per day Monday to Friday and one at the weekend. Visits must be booked 24 hours in advance.

Barlinnie Prison Information


To gain access to the prison for the purpose of visiting, you must have two forms of identification, one of which must be photographic ID. Entry to the prison will not be permitted without acceptable identification.

The following examples shall be accepted as suitable for photographic ID purposes:

Valid Passport
· Photographic Driving Licence
· Citizen/Validate UK Card
· Senior Citizens Bus Pass

The following examples shall be accepted as suitable for proof of address provided it is less than 3 months old:

Utility bill
· Council tax bill
· Bank statement
· Other letter from official source

How to get to Barlinnie Prison
By train:The nearest stations are at Alexandra Parade and Carntyne, both at least 30 minutes walk from the prison.
Parking: Visitors can use the car park on the left as they come up the driveway to the prison. If there are no spaces in this car park then visitors will need to park on Smithycroft Road.
By Bus: First Bus number 38 / 38A / 38C stop near the prison (First Bus 38B & 38E do not go to HMP Barlinnie and there are other bus companies with number 38 buses which do not go to Barlinnie – check with the driver to be sure). There are stops at both Queen Street and Central Stations in Glasgow City Centre

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