HMP Wakefield is a high-security prison in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England, primarily housing Category A and B male prisoners, including those serving long-term sentences for serious offenses such as sex offenses[1][3][5]. It has a capacity of around 750 inmates, with about 148 to 160 classified as Category A, the highest security level[1][5]. The prison is notable for its Victorian-era radial design, built between 1843 and 1847 by Bernard Hartley, featuring four wings radiating from a central point, with each wing having multiple levels of single-occupancy cells[3][6]. This architectural design remains largely intact and operational today, reflecting durable 19th-century construction[4][6]. HMP Wakefield has a long history, originally established as the West Riding House of Correction in 1594, and evolving over centuries from a local detention facility to a dispersal prison for high-risk inmates by 1975[5][6][7]. Its nickname, the "Monster Mansion," reflects its size and security status. The prison is equipped with modern amenities including kitchens on all residential units, allowing prisoners to prepare their own meals, and facilities such as a gym, multi-faith chaplaincy, and a prison shop[1][2]. Education and rehabilitation are integral to the prison’s operations. Learning opportunities are provided by The Manchester College and Milton Keynes College, offering courses from basic skills to Open University distance learning, alongside accredited vocational training in areas like industrial cleaning, hospitality, and catering[1][2]. Work programs include roles in kitchens, textiles, woodwork, library, and a Braille shop converting books to Braille, emphasizing skill development and purposeful activity[1][2]. The prison also runs accredited offending behavior programs and supports temporary release on license for qualifying prisoners[2]. Inspections highlight the prison as generally calm and well-managed, though concerns remain about mental health care delays for inmates needin