Magilligan

Role and background

Magilligan is a medium-security prison at Point Road near Limavady in County Londonderry. It primarily accommodates sentenced adult men, with a role centred on progression through custody and preparation for release.

That function distinguishes it from Maghaberry's broad receiving and high-security responsibilities. Prisoners at Magilligan are not a single uniform group, but its principal place in the estate is the management of sentenced men rather than serving as the main point of committal from court.

In the 2024–25 reporting period, its population was being managed close to a stated capacity of 500 to help relieve pressure elsewhere in the estate. This is a dated explanation of operational planning, not a claim about the number held on a particular day in October 2026.

Visiting and family contact

Family contact is arranged through the prison visiting system. Visitors must register, meet identification requirements and obtain a booking before travelling. A visitors' welcome centre and family support provision can help with arrangements and concerns about a relative.

Transport support has included a bookable service between Bellarena station and the visitors' centre on designated visiting days. Families should confirm its current availability when arranging a visit. Magilligan's location and release-focused role both matter when explaining how it fits within Northern Ireland's prison system.

Practical advice before you make arrangements

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

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