🔴 LIVE BANKING UPDATE
Last Updated: January 30, 2026
As confirmed by Santander UK, 44 additional branch closures are scheduled between April 2026 and January 2027. These closures will affect towns across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Recently announced closures include branches in London, Glasgow, Cardiff, and Belfast. Scroll down to explore full closure details and alternative banking options.
In early 2026, Santander UK confirmed that 44 of its high street branches will close between April 2026 and January 2027 as part of a strategic network overhaul. This development reflects both the changing habits of banking customers and the broader transformation of UK retail banking.
Why Is Santander Closing 44 UK Branches in 2026?
Santander’s decision to close 44 branches stems primarily from the continuing shift towards digital and mobile banking. According to the bank, 96 per cent of all transactions are now carried out online or via mobile apps, leaving many physical branches underused.
The move comes as Santander restructures its services to better align with customer behaviour and evolving market conditions. In some cases, branch closures are also part of broader cost‑efficiency plans linked to the bank’s strategic direction, including its ongoing £2.6 billion takeover of TSB, a deal that may influence how the combined network operates in future.
How Will the 2026 Closures Affect Santander Customers?
The impact of branch closures varies by location and customer. For many day‑to‑day banking tasks such as deposits, withdrawals, and simple account enquiries customers increasingly rely on online banking and apps. However, some communities, especially in rural areas, still depend on face‑to‑face services.
The closures will affect branches across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and can influence access to cash services, account support and personalised financial advice. Santander has said it will contact customers it considers vulnerable to help find alternative ways of banking.
What Are Santander ‘Locals’ and Community Bankers?
To ease the transition for communities losing a full‑service branch, Santander is expanding Santander Locals and deploying Community Bankers in areas where traditional branches will close.
Santander Locals
These are often situated in community spaces like libraries and centres. They don’t function as full banks but provide customers with weekly face‑to‑face assistance, money management support, and general banking help.
Community Bankers
These trained staff can visit banking hubs multi‑bank service points to assist customers of various banks, offering guidance on basic transactions and account questions.
These initiatives aim to maintain a human element in banking services even where branches are closing, although they may not provide all services previously available at a full branch.
Can Customers Still Access Banking Services Through the Post Office?
Even with Santander branches closing, many customers can still carry out basic banking tasks at the Post Office, one of the UK’s largest networks of physical points.
The Post Office offers services such as:
- Cash withdrawals and deposits
- Bill payments and account enquiries
- Some cheque services
With over 11,000 Post Office locations across the UK, this remains a viable option for many, particularly in regions losing a branch.
Digital and Mobile Banking Is It Worth Switching?
For many Santander customers, the move to digital banking is already familiar. Online and mobile banking offer convenience, speed and 24/7 access. Santander has strengthened its app and online platform in response to demand, including features like transaction search, credit card integrations and customisable dashboards.
However, digital banking is not suitable for everyone. Some people prefer or require in‑person support for example, those without reliable internet access or who are unfamiliar with technology.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Santander for In‑Person Banking?
| Bank / Institution | UK Branch Network Size (Approx.) | Focus on In‑Person Services | Branch Promise / Commitment | Notes for In‑Person Banking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Building Society | ~605 branches (largest UK network) | Very strong (mutual, high branch footprint) | Promised to keep branches open until at least 2030 | Excellent choice if physical access and face‑to‑face support matter most |
| Lloyds Banking Group (Lloyds, Halifax, Bank of Scotland) | ~998 (Lloyds Group total) | Strong (multiple sub‑brands, many branches) | Ongoing branch network with some closures | Broad geographic coverage across UK towns and cities |
| NatWest | ~523–526 branches | Strong (one of the Big Four) | Maintains substantial physical presence despite some closures | Good balance of branch access and digital services |
| HSBC UK | ~327 branches | Moderate to strong | Has pledged to keep UK branches open at least through 2027 | Branches often modernised with in‑centre service areas |
| Barclays | Branch count significant (hundreds) | Moderate | Ongoing physical presence, though smaller than Nationwide/Lloyds | Offers in‑branch services across major towns and cities |
| TSB Bank | ~175 branches | Moderate | Traditional retail branch bank though smaller network | Might appeal if branch proximity outweighs size |
| Co‑operative Bank | ~77 branches | Limited | Smaller high street presence | Suitable for local banking if located nearby |
| Santander UK (Remaining Network) | ~305 total with 244 full service | Reduced (44 closures in 2026) | Still offers in‑person but shrinking | Customers may prefer other banks for more local access |
Key Takeaways for In‑Person Banking Alternatives
- Nationwide Building Society stands out with the largest physical footprint and a pledge to maintain branches ideal for customers who prioritise in‑person help.
- Lloyds Banking Group (including Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland) has the most combined branches in the UK, offering broad access.
- NatWest and HSBC UK both retain strong branch networks despite wider sector closures, making them solid alternatives with face‑to‑face support.
- Barclays and TSB Bank also provide physical banking options, though on a smaller scale compared with the top traditional providers.
- Smaller banks, like the Co‑operative Bank, serve niche local communities but may lack the breadth of coverage.
How to Switch Bank Accounts Smoothly in the UK?
Switching banks might seem daunting, but it is streamlined in the UK through the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) a free, guaranteed service that transfers everything from direct debits to standing orders over to the new bank account within seven working days.
Steps to switch:
- Choose a new bank and account.
- Start the switch via the new bank’s application process.
- CASS automatically transfers payments and closes the old account.
This process ensures continuity and protection for customers moving between providers.
The Future of High Street Banking in the UK
Santander’s latest closures are part of a long‑term trend. Across the UK, banks and building societies have steadily reduced physical branches as digital banking grows. According to industry data, thousands of bank branches have closed over the past decade reshaping the role of the high street bank.
While some institutions like Nationwide have chosen to preserve their branch footprint, others are pivoting to a mix of digital platforms, smaller community hubs, and partnership services to maintain customer access.
Conclusion
The closure of 44 Santander branches in 2026 marks a significant shift in UK banking. For many customers, alternatives like Santander Locals, Post Office services, digital banking and other high street banks can provide continuity and support.
Despite the changes, customers today have more options than ever before from mobile banking to shared community hubs to manage their finances in a way that suits their needs.
FAQs About Santander Bank Branch Closures 2026
Will Santander close all its branches in the UK?
No. Santander will still operate a network of branches, including full‑service sites and alternative formats like Santander Locals.
How can customers check if their local branch is closing?
Customers should visit Santander’s official website or contact customer services for the most recent closure list.
What services are available at a Santander Local?
Santander Locals offer basic face‑to‑face support but not the full suite of services previously available at a regular branch.
Can elderly customers still get in‑person support?
Yes, through Santander Locals, Post Office services, community bankers, and other nearby bank branches.
Is online banking safe for everyday use?
Yes. Most UK banks, including Santander, use strong digital security measures to protect customer accounts.
Which UK bank still has the most high street branches?
Different banks lead in different areas, but many customers find Nationwide Building Society still maintains a reliable branch network.
What happens to my account if my branch closes?
Your account remains open only the physical branch is closing. You can bank online, via the app, by phone, at Post Offices or at other bank branches.