In a significant move for the UK's high streets, Nationwide Building Society has issued a crucial update regarding the future of its extensive branch network. The mutual has pledged to keep all 605 of its branches open until at least the beginning of 2030, providing a stark contrast to the ongoing closure programmes seen among many of its high street banking rivals.
A Firm Commitment to Physical Presence
Nationwide has emphasised that its branches remain a valued and integral part of communities across the United Kingdom. The building society stated that this commitment is a core reason why it was recently awarded the prestigious title of Which? Banking Brand of the Year for 2025. The society's leadership has made it clear that customers should have a genuine choice in how they manage their finances.
"That’s why we’re ensuring they will be here today, and here tomorrow. So you can choose how to bank – in branch, in our app, or over the phone," a spokesperson for Nationwide confirmed. This strategy underscores a balanced approach to modern banking, investing in digital and telephone channels while maintaining a physical footprint on the high street.
Leadership and Customer Confidence
Dame Debbie Crosbie DBE, Chief Executive Officer of Nationwide Building Society, reinforced the message directly. "Our customers can be confident that they can bank with us whichever way they choose," she said. "Branches are important to our customers, to communities, and to the health of our high streets. That’s why Nationwide will continue to keep branches open in addition to our investment in online and telephone channels."
This commitment comes at a time when the building society has also been recognised as the UK's best high street banking provider for customer satisfaction within its sector. This accolade is based on data from The UK Customer Satisfaction Index published by The Institute of Customer Service in July 2025, which surveyed 19 banking providers.
Clarity on Future Operations
While the pledge is firm, Nationwide has included a note of pragmatic realism in its announcement. The society acknowledged that "there may be circumstances beyond our control that mean we have to close a branch. Or relocate it in the same town." However, it has assured customers and communities that any such action would only be taken "when there’s no other workable option," emphasising that closure is a last resort.
This policy provides a layer of security and predictability for the towns and cities that host a Nationwide branch, many of which have seen other financial institutions retreat from the high street in recent years.
The Nationwide Branch Network
The full list of 605 branches spans the entire United Kingdom, from major cities to smaller market towns. The network includes multiple locations in larger urban centres, ensuring widespread access to in-person banking services.
Key locations with multiple branches include:
- London: 11 branches
- Birmingham: 4 branches
- Glasgow: 4 branches
- Northampton: 6 branches
- Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh: Multiple branches each
The comprehensive list reaffirms Nationwide's status as a truly national building society with deep roots in communities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This announcement solidifies its role as a stabilising force on the British high street for the remainder of this decade.
