NatWest Announces 32 Bank Branch Closures for 2026
NatWest Group has confirmed plans to close 32 of its bank branches across the United Kingdom in 2026, continuing a significant trend of physical branch reductions over the past decade. According to data from consumer group Which?, NatWest has closed more branches than any other banking provider since 2015.
Decade of Decline in Physical Banking
Since 2015, NatWest Group, which includes NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Ulster Bank, has shut down a staggering 1,536 branches. This represents the highest number of closures by any banking group in the UK during this period.
A spokesperson for NatWest explained the rationale behind the closures, stating: "Our branch network remains a central part of how we serve customers, and we continue to invest in this for the future, with increased investment planned over the next three years. However, how our customers choose to bank with us is changing dramatically."
Adapting to Changing Customer Behavior
The bank emphasized that its network and services must reflect evolving customer demand. "We need to ensure we are set up to deliver the best possible support," the spokesperson added. NatWest highlighted alternative banking methods it is expanding, including:
- Unique mobile branches that travel to communities
- Community Banking Hubs for shared services
- Partnerships with the Post Office for basic banking
- The largest free-to-use ATM network of any UK bank
"We carefully assess where and when we make the difficult decision to close a branch to minimize the impact any change may have on our customers and colleagues," the spokesperson noted.
Full List of NatWest Branches Closing in 2026
The 32 branches scheduled for closure in 2026 are spread across England, with multiple locations in London and other major urban areas:
- Aldershot
- Ashford (Middlesex)
- Barnet
- Boston
- Brentwood
- Eastcote
- Godalming
- Grays
- Halifax
- Harlow
- Hartlepool
- Hemel Hempstead
- Herne Bay
- Hornchurch
- Hove
- Kirkby Lonsdale
- London – Fulham Broadway
- London – Spitalfields
- London – Sydenham
- London – Tooting
- London – West End
- Loughton – Old Station Road – Sainsburys
- Manchester – Cheetham Hill
- Manchester – Chorlton
- Orpington
- Palmers Green
- Pontefract
- Sheffield – Attercliffe – Attercliffe Road
- South Shields
- Southall
- Waltham Cross
- Welwyn Garden City
Banking's Digital Transformation
On its official website, NatWest acknowledged the dramatic shift in banking patterns: "Banking has changed dramatically in recent years, with increased demand for mobile and online services as our customers benefit from faster and easier ways to bank."
The bank recognized that branch closures can particularly affect customers less confident with digital alternatives. "We know it can affect those less confident with alternatives we offer," the statement continued. "We'll always work hard to guide and support you through the changes and find the best way to serve you from now on."
This latest round of closures reflects the ongoing transformation of the UK banking sector, where physical branches are being replaced by digital platforms and alternative access points. NatWest's commitment to maintaining some physical presence through mobile and community hubs suggests a hybrid approach to customer service in the coming years.
