MI5 HQ Wormwood Scrubs Prison

During World War II, Wormwood Scrubs Prison in London played a unique role. In 1939, the British government evacuated prisoners from the facility and repurposed it for wartime use. The War Department took control of the prison, and it became a temporary headquarters for MI5, the UK's domestic intelligence agency.

MI5 operated from Wormwood Scrubs during the early years of the war, but after the London Blitz in September 1940, the prison was bombed, forcing MI5 to relocate to Blenheim Palace near Oxford. Some MI5 staff remained in London, working from a former MGM building in St James’s Street, which was disguised with a large "To Let" sign to maintain secrecy.

The prison itself remained under government control throughout the war, but its primary function as a correctional facility was suspended. After the war, Wormwood Scrubs resumed its role as a Category B men's prison, continuing its long history within the British penal system.

Do you have more information about this location? Inform us!

Source

• Text: TracesofWar
• Photos: Dr Neil Clifton