NatWest Announces Major Branch Closures Across the UK
NatWest has confirmed it will close 15 branches across the United Kingdom in May 2026, as part of a broader strategy driven by the increasing adoption of digital banking services. This move follows the bank's announcement in January, which highlighted a significant decline in in-person branch usage.
Details of the Closure Plan
According to NatWest's official website, a total of 37 branches are scheduled to shut down, with 34 closures set to be completed by the end of February 2027. In addition to the 15 branches closing in May 2026, further closures include 14 in June, one each in August and September, and three more in February 2027. The bank attributes these decisions to a dramatic shift in customer behavior, with the majority of transactions now conducted online.
Impact on Customers and Alternative Services
NatWest has emphasized that customers will still have access to in-person banking services through various alternatives. Clients can utilize any branch within the NatWest group, including Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) locations. Additionally, the bank offers a mobile branch service, where staff provide banking facilities in community settings on specific days, enabling services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, and bill payments.
Post Office outlets also serve as a key resource, offering banking services like cash deposits and withdrawals, balance inquiries, and cheque deposits. NatWest has invested £115 million in its branch network since 2020 and plans to continue financial support over the next three years, including investments in local banking hubs operated by the Post Office.
Closure Locations and Dates
The branches closing in May 2026 are spread across England, with specific dates as follows:
- Ashford (Middlesex): 12/5/2026
- Barnet: 11/5/2026
- Brentwood: 13/5/2026
- Cheetham Hill: 12/5/2026
- Chorlton-cum-Hardy: 20/5/2026
- Eastcote: 11/5/2026
- Harlow: 21/5/2026
- Hartlepool: 14/5/2026
- Hornchurch: 21/5/2026
- Hove: 19/5/2026
- Loughton: 18/5/2026
- Orpington: 27/5/2026
- Portishead: 12/05/2026
- Tooting: 18/5/2026
- Waltham Cross: 28/5/2026
Bank's Statement and Future Plans
In a statement, NatWest explained, "We've recently announced that we're closing some branches. Banking has changed dramatically in recent years. There's more demand for mobile and online services, allowing you to benefit from a faster and easier way to bank." The bank added that it is committed to supporting customers through the transition, with detailed closure guides available on its website.
These upcoming closures are part of a larger trend, following over 100 branch shutdowns in 2025. A NatWest spokesperson noted, "We carefully assess where and when we make the difficult decision to close a branch to minimise the impact any change may have on our customers and colleagues." Three additional branches in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Launceston, and Torquay will also close, but their dates are pending until suitable banking hubs are established.
