Lloyds Banking Group has confirmed plans to shut down a total of 19 high street branches throughout February 2026, marking a significant reduction in physical banking presence across the UK. This move reflects the ongoing transformation in how customers manage their finances, with digital alternatives increasingly taking precedence.
Details of the Branch Closures
The closures will affect three major brands under the Lloyds Banking Group umbrella. Specifically, 11 Lloyds Bank locations, five Halifax branches, and three Bank of Scotland sites are set to close their doors. The decision is driven by a notable change in customer behaviour, as the group reports that over 21 million customers now prefer using mobile apps for their banking needs.
Lloyds Bank Closures
Lloyds Bank branches will cease operations in several towns and cities. The first closures include Swindon on February 3 and Kendal on February 10. Later in the month, additional branches in Brecon, Cranbrook, Wadebridge, and Kenilworth will also shut down.
Halifax Closures
Halifax is scheduled to close its branches in Thetford and Belfast (Castle Court) on February 4. Further closures will occur in Kendal, Gillingham, and the Connswater Shopping Centre in Belfast by February 10 and 11.
Bank of Scotland Closures
Bank of Scotland will close three locations, starting with North Berwick on February 3 and Golspie on February 4. The final closure for the month is planned for the Linlithgow branch on February 18.
Impact on Customers and Alternatives
While the shift to digital banking is a key factor, charities have expressed concerns that these closures could leave vulnerable individuals without access to essential services. To mitigate this, Lloyds Banking Group has reminded customers that they can use any Lloyds, Halifax, or Bank of Scotland branch interchangeably for everyday banking tasks.
Additionally, many basic banking services remain available at local Post Office branches or dedicated "banking hubs." For cash deposits, customers can utilise over 30,000 PayPoint locations across the country. The group is also promoting digital support and updates to banking apps to help ease the transition away from in-person visits.
Broader Industry Context
These closures are part of a wider trend in the banking sector. Data from Which? indicates that more than 6,600 bank branches have closed since 2015. Looking ahead, 71 branches across various banking groups are already scheduled for closure throughout 2026, highlighting the rapid decline of physical banking infrastructure.
As the industry continues to evolve, the balance between digital convenience and maintaining access for all customers remains a critical issue for banks and policymakers alike.
