HMP Five Wells first visit checklist
What to take tomorrow. Official facts and what families reported. Not a promise.
Already on their visitor list
OfficialYou cannot book until they add you. First visits take longer because of the visitor list.
Photo ID
OfficialBring acceptable photo ID. Expired ID is not accepted.
Dress
OfficialHoodies, ripped clothes, and flip-flops are often turned away. Staff decide on the day.
Can I wear this?Arrive early
OfficialAllow time to get through security. Local queues vary.
Lockers
prisoncheckPhones and bags usually go in a locker. Bring change.
Not on the list yet?
Families report a first visit of 6 days. That is the wait for the list, not what to put in the bag.
First visit waitWhat the visit was like
Live family notes. Official facts stay on the list above.
“The staff are really friendly and helpful. I always do an evening visit (17:30) and after my first visit (getting registered), I now arrive by 16:45 and that's plenty of time. You don't have to be there hours and hours before. You take your ID in with you to the visit, money in a clear bag (you can buy a wallet there), your locker key bracelet and hot food order.”
Visit rules · 1mo ago
“Very relaxed. You need to take 1 form of photo ID & 2 proof of address on your first visit. You will do finger prints and pics etc. I took my driving license, passport and a bank statement (which I showed on my phone). Would highly recommend downloading the statement before you arrive as there's signal blockers on the building so it's impossible to use anything on your phone! Coins and notes accepted, great choice of food including hot food!”
Visit rules · 1mo ago
GOV.UK · HMPPS / GOV.UK · Official source