HMP Dartmoor

HMP Dartmoor is one of the most famous prisons in the UK, located in Princetown, Devon, surrounded by the dramatic landscape of Dartmoor National Park. Known for its distinctive granite walls and historic architecture, the prison has a long and complex history.

Today, HMP Dartmoor functions as a Category C training prison holding adult male prisoners. It’s designed to prepare men for release by focusing on education, employment training, and resettlement support.

For many families, understanding how HMP Dartmoor operates can make the process of supporting a loved one in custody less daunting. This guide covers everything you need to know from visiting arrangements and daily routines to saving money on phone calls.

A Brief History of HMP Dartmoor

Dartmoor Prison first opened its doors in 1809, initially to house prisoners of war from the Napoleonic Wars and later from the War of 1812. It officially became a criminal prison in 1850. Its isolated location and fortress-like structure made it ideal for holding large numbers of inmates securely.

Over the decades, Dartmoor has been home to some of Britain’s most notorious prisoners and has played a central role in the evolution of the UK’s prison system. While its physical structure retains much of its historic character, the prison’s purpose has shifted over time from punishment and containment to training and rehabilitation.

Despite being more than 200 years old, Dartmoor remains operational, although plans for its eventual closure have been discussed in recent years. In the meantime, it continues to provide a secure environment with a focus on progression for those nearing the end of their sentences.

Category and Capacity

HMP Dartmoor is officially classified as a Category C training prison. This means it holds men who cannot be trusted in open conditions but are considered unlikely to try to escape. The primary aim is to support prisoners in developing skills and independence before release.

The prison has a capacity of just over 600 men, spread across several wings. Prisoners at Dartmoor are typically serving medium to long-term sentences, often transferred from higher category prisons as they progress through the system.

Daily Life Inside HMP Dartmoor

The daily regime at Dartmoor is structured but purposeful, focusing on education, vocational training, and work opportunities. Prisoners are expected to engage with activities designed to help them build confidence, responsibility, and skills for life after custody.

Typical elements of the daily routine include:
- Educational programmes, including literacy, numeracy, and vocational training
- Workshop employment, such as carpentry, textiles, or other prison industries
- Physical education, with access to the gym and outdoor exercise
- Health and wellbeing services, including mental health support
- Faith services through a multi-faith chaplaincy team

Prisoners also have access to in-cell telephones, allowing them to call approved contacts during designated times. Maintaining contact with family and friends is seen as a key part of rehabilitation and emotional wellbeing.

Rehabilitation and Resettlement Support

As a training prison, Dartmoor places strong emphasis on rehabilitation. Prisoners are encouraged to take part in structured activities that support their eventual release.

This includes:
- Accredited offending behaviour programmes
- Resettlement planning with housing and employment services
- Drug and alcohol recovery programmes
- Mentoring and peer support schemes

Many prisoners at Dartmoor are in the final stages of their sentence, so preparing them to reintegrate into society successfully is a central goal of the prison regime.

Visiting HMP Dartmoor

Visiting a loved one in Dartmoor can seem challenging due to its remote location, but the prison has well-organised visiting arrangements to help families stay connected.

Typical Visiting Times (subject to change):
- Wednesday to Sunday: 14:00 – 16:00

All visits must be booked in advance, and visitors must be on the prisoner’s approved contact list. A valid form of identification is required on the day.

The visits hall is equipped with seating, refreshments, and facilities to make visits more comfortable. There are strict security checks, so it’s important to arrive early and follow all prison guidelines.How to get there:

Car: Dartmoor Prison is located in Princetown, Devon. Due to its rural location, driving is the most common way to reach it.
Bus: Some limited local bus services operate from Plymouth.
Train: The nearest mainline station is in Plymouth, followed by a bus or taxi ride.

Security and Operations

Although Dartmoor is a Category C prison, security remains a priority. The prison is surrounded by high stone walls and equipped with CCTV, perimeter checks, and internal monitoring.

As with many historic prisons, the building itself can pose challenges, but staff are trained to manage safety and security effectively. There are regular searches, strict control over movement, and clear procedures to prevent contraband from entering the establishment.

The balance between maintaining security and promoting rehabilitation is central to Dartmoor’s day-to-day operation.

Research consistently shows that maintaining strong family relationships during imprisonment significantly reduces the likelihood of reoffending after release. Regular phone calls, visits, and letters help maintain hope, motivation, and stability for both the prisoner and their family.

By using affordable call solutions like CallFromPrison.co.uk, families can stay connected without the stress of high costs. This connection plays a vital role in rehabilitation, making the transition back into the community more successful.

HMP Dartmoor is a unique and historic prison that plays a modern role in the UK’s justice system. Despite its age and rural location, it remains a place focused on rehabilitation, structure, and preparation for release.

For families and friends, staying informed about the prison’s procedures and using cost-saving measures for calls can make supporting a loved one inside more manageable and affordable.

If your loved one is held at HMP Dartmoor, setting up a virtual landline can help you stay in touch more easily, ensuring that communication remains a constant no matter the distance.