Three major banks in the United Kingdom—Lloyds Bank, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland—are set to close a total of 71 branches in 2026. This decision stems from a significant shift in customer banking habits, with many opting for online banking over traditional branch visits. The closures were initially announced earlier this year, reflecting a broader trend in the financial sector.
According to a spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group, more than 21 million customers are now using mobile apps to manage their finances. “The way people are banking has changed,” the spokesperson stated. “We’re providing more choice than ever before, bringing together the best in digital convenience with our people.” The spokesperson also highlighted that customers will still have access to branch services through any of the three banks, as well as the Post Office and various banking hubs.
Details of the Branch Closures
The closure list includes 40 Lloyds branches, 14 Halifax locations, and 17 Bank of Scotland sites. Affected customers are encouraged to check their local options. For those whose branches are closing, everyday banking can still be conducted at remaining branches of Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland.
The full list of closures is as follows:
**Lloyds Bank Closures:**
– Alfreton – January 1, 2026
– Ammanford – January 12, 2026
– Bideford – January 13, 2026
– Birmingham, Harborne – October 8, 2026
– Brigg – March 5, 2026
– Caterham – March 3, 2026
– Gillingham, Dorset – January 8, 2026
– Liverpool Breck Road – March 4, 2026
– Manchester Moston – March 11, 2026
– Stoke-on-Trent – October 30, 2026
– Wymondham – March 13, 2026
**Halifax Bank Closures:**
– Birmingham Bearwood – March 2, 2026
– Buxton – Spring Gardens – October 13, 2026
– Deal – January 22, 2026
– Hastings – January 22, 2026
– Wandsworth, London – January 15, 2026
– Yeovil – January 12, 2026
**Bank of Scotland Closures:**
– Alexandria – March 3, 2026
– Bellshill – January 12, 2026
– Bishopbriggs – March 4, 2026
– Glasgow – January 12, 2026
– Hawick – October 7, 2026
– Nairn – January 20, 2026
– Tain – January 12, 2026
Options for Affected Customers
Customers impacted by the branch closures have several alternatives. They can access banking services at any remaining branches of the three banks, and the establishment of banking hubs in shared public spaces offers additional convenience. Furthermore, cash deposits can still be made at over 30,000 PayPoint locations throughout the UK.
As the banking landscape continues to evolve, this strategic move by Lloyds Banking Group reflects ongoing changes in consumer behavior and the increasing reliance on digital banking solutions. Customers are advised to stay informed about the closures and explore the various options available to maintain their banking needs.
