Major UK Banks, Including HSBC and Barclays, to Close Branches

In the coming days, leading banks in the United Kingdom (UK), including HSBC and Barclays, will be closing their physical branches and shifting their focus to online banking services.

According to data from LINK, hundreds of bank branches have already closed in 2023, with more closures expected to follow in the coming days.

This trend reflects the growing preference of customers for online banking over visiting physical branches.

👉 For more insights, check out this resource.

The branches that are scheduled to be closed between September 5th and 8th, 2023, as listed in The Sun Newspaper (UK Edition), are as follows: HSBC branches in Settle, Epworth, Holsworthy, and Hythe; Santander branches in Midsummer Place, Milton Keynes, and Grafton Gate East, Milton Keynes; and Barclays branches in Finchley Road, London, Harpenden, St Ives, St Andrews, and Haverhill.

Additionally, various other banks, including Barclays, Lloyds, and Halifax, are also planning to permanently close their branches this month in locations such as London, Suffolk, and Newcastle.

👉 Discover more in this in-depth guide.

Barclays has already closed four of its branches for the final time on September 1st and has announced around 70 closures this year.

Although the majority of banking customers are transitioning to online services, branch closures can create challenges for some individuals.

“Many elderly people, especially those in rural areas, rely on physical branches for their day-to-day banking activities. However, if you have been affected by the closure of your local bank branch, there are options available. Most basic banking tasks can be carried out at the post office,” The Sun advises.

“However, certain services, such as applying for a loan or opening a new bank account, may not be available at the post office. Some banks offer mobile banking services, where a bank brings a bus to specific areas, providing services usually available at a branch. Contact your bank to inquire about such services and their availability in your area,” adds The Sun.

Furthermore, some banks utilize buildings like village halls or libraries to offer mobile banking services. Customers are encouraged to contact their banks to explore the available options.