While major banks continue disappearing from Britain’s high streets, Nationwide Building Society is making a very different bet on the future of face-to-face banking.
The building society has pledged to keep all 605 of its branches open until at least the start of 2030 - a move that stands in stark contrast to the wave of closures sweeping across the UK banking sector.
The commitment comes as the Government launches a major review into access to in-person banking services, amid growing concerns that communities are being left behind as more services move online.
Nationwide says its branches remain a “valued part of the UK’s high streets” and insists customers should still have the choice of banking in person, online or over the phone.
The society currently operates:
- 605 branches across the UK
- 148 branches that are the last bank branch remaining in town
- More than 200 branches offering Dementia UK clinics
Nationwide says its branch network helped it secure the title of Which? Banking Brand of the Year 2025, alongside being named Moneyfacts’ 2026 Branch Network of the Year.
The lender also says branches provide support beyond day-to-day banking, including mortgage advice, bereavement support, Power of Attorney help and scam prevention services.
Britain’s disappearing bank branches
The announcement lands as ministers prepare to examine the impact of widespread bank closures on communities across the country.
Treasury minister Lucy Rigby has commissioned an independent Access to Banking Review to investigate who is being hardest hit by the loss of local branches and whether further legislation may be needed.
“While banking hubs are helping, we need a clear picture of where communities are still losing out,” Rigby said.
The review will be chaired by Richard Lloyd, former executive director of Which? and former non-executive director at the Financial Conduct Authority.
Face-to-face banking at risk
Consumer groups, charities and industry leaders say physical banking services remain essential for many people - particularly older customers, vulnerable consumers, small businesses and those struggling with digital banking.
Age UK warned that many older people are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their money after losing access to local branches.
Meanwhile, the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute said in-person banking can be critical for people with mental health problems who struggle with online or telephone services.
Shared banking hubs and Post Office services have helped fill some gaps, but campaigners argue they do not fully replace dedicated local branches.
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Banking hubs expanding - but closures continue
Cash Access UK says it has already opened 237 banking hubs and more than 140 cash deposit services nationwide.
The banking industry maintains that digital banking demand continues to grow rapidly, but says it remains committed to preserving access for customers who still rely on branches.
However, Nationwide’s decision to guarantee its network until 2030 sets it apart at a time when many rivals are continuing to scale back their physical presence.
For communities that have already watched banks vanish from their high streets, the promise could prove increasingly significant over the next decade.
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