Deerbolt Prison Information

Deerbolt Prison, officially known as HMP Deerbolt, is a Category C men's prison located in Barnard Castle, County Durham, England. Managed by Her Majesty's Prison Service, Deerbolt Prison primarily holds young adult male offenders. Here is important information about Deerbolt Prison:

Deerbolt Prison was established in 1973 as a Young Offender Institution (YOI) and later transformed into a Category C adult prison. Its primary purpose is to securely hold and rehabilitate young adult male offenders to support their successful reintegration into society.

Deerbolt Prison is classified as a Category C prison. It is designed to accommodate individuals who have a moderate security risk but may not require the highest level of security measures. The prison implements necessary security measures to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.

Deerbolt Prison primarily accommodates young adult male offenders between the ages of 18 and 21. It can also hold individuals up to the age of 25 in exceptional circumstances. The prison houses individuals who have been remanded in custody, serving short-term sentences, or serving longer sentences for more serious offenses. The capacity of Deerbolt Prison is approximately 500 individuals.

Deerbolt Prison provides a range of facilities and services to meet the needs of its inmates and support their rehabilitation. These include:
  • Accommodation: The prison consists of multiple residential units with individual cells or shared accommodation for inmates. The cells are equipped with basic amenities, including beds, personal storage, and sanitation facilities.
  • Education and Vocational Training: Deerbolt Prison offers educational programs to help inmates improve their literacy, numeracy, and other skills. Vocational training opportunities are provided to enhance employment prospects upon release.
  • Workshops and Employment: Inmates have access to workshops where they can engage in various activities such as woodworking, metalwork, and other vocational programs. These activities aim to develop skills and potential employment options within the prison.
  • Healthcare: Deerbolt Prison has an on-site healthcare unit staffed with medical professionals who offer primary healthcare services to prisoners. Mental health support and substance abuse programs are also available.
  • Sports and Physical Activities: The prison promotes physical fitness and well-being by providing access to sports facilities and organized activities. These activities aim to develop teamwork, discipline, and positive lifestyle choices.
  • Family Contact: The prison recognizes the importance of maintaining family relationships and offers opportunities for visits and contact with family members, subject to specific guidelines and regulations.
  • Chaplaincy Services: Deerbolt Prison has chaplains representing different faiths who offer religious support and guidance to prisoners.
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Contact Information
HMP Deerbolt Prison
Bowes Rd,
Barnard Castle
DL12 9BG

Tel: 01833 623 100

Website: HM Prison Deerbolt
Booking a visit to Deerbolt Prison
How to book a visit to Deerbolt Prison?

You can book a visit to the prison by calling 01833 633 349.
Lines are open Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 12:00.

Deerbolt Prison Information

To visit someone in Deerbolt Prison you must:
  • be on that person’s visitor list
  • have a visiting order
  • book your visit at least 2 days in advance
  • have the required IDwith you when you go


What you need to bring when visiting Deerbolt Prison?
All visitors aged 16 and older need to bring one of the following types of photo ID:
  • passport
  • driving licence
  • senior citizen’s public transport pass
  • annual public transport season ticket (with photo card)
  • employer ID card (if it shows the name and photo of the visitor)
  • European Community identity card
  • CitizenCard
If you do not have these, staff may accept 2 or more of the following types of ID:
  • rail or bus pass with photo
  • young person’s proof of age card
  • trade union or students union card
  • birth certificate
  • marriage certificate
  • cheque book or credit card
  • rent book
  • foreign ID card
  • NHS medical card
All visitors will need to be given a pat-down search, including children. You may also be sniffed by security dogs.

What are the Directions to Deerbolt Prison? How to get there?
If you are coming by train to the prison,The nearest main line railway station to Barnard Castle is at Darlington, with Bishop Auckland being closer at around 15 miles away

Is there car parking at Deerbolt Prison?
Car parking is provided at the prison
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