Drake Hall

Inside the prison and daily life

Drake Hall is a prison and young offender institution for women aged 18 and over in Eccleshall, Staffordshire. Its accommodation combines single and shared cells, with a separate open unit outside the main perimeter.

Each woman develops an individual learning plan during induction. Classroom education sits alongside vocational training and, after approval for temporary release, paid work placements.

Practical opportunities include a vehicle-skills academy, distribution work, gardening and waste management. Qualifications can be gained in some work areas to improve employment prospects after custody.

The site also provides access to gardens, farm areas and indoor and outdoor exercise facilities. Support agencies work with women on personal and practical needs, and the prison has a Women's Institute branch.

Role and background

The open unit enables a smaller group of women to work in the community and prepare for release. Permission to leave custody temporarily depends on the relevant approval and conditions.

Visiting and family contact

Temporary release can support employment, family relationships and preparation for returning home. Family contact therefore forms part of the wider resettlement picture.

Visitors should confirm current booking, identification and entry requirements before travelling.

Practical advice before you make arrangements

Use Drake Hall's official page below for its current booking route, required identification, permitted items and travel instructions.

Confirm that the person is still at Drake Hall and that your visit has been accepted before making travel arrangements. Ask the prison in advance about disability access, medication or children's needs.