Santander to close 40 branches in 2026: is yours on the list?
In 2025, the bank shut 95 branches across the UK
www.which.co.ukHere’s what I can share based on recent reporting.
Core answer
- Several outlets reported that Santander is closing a substantial number of UK branches in 2026, with a particular note that 13 branches were slated to close in a near-term wave (often described as “next week”) as part of a broader program to downsize the branch network.
Context and details
- Santander announced plans to close a large group of UK branches in 2026, with figures commonly cited around 44 branches in a wave announced late January 2026, and a broader plan to wind down around 58 branches across 2026–2027. This reflects a long-running trend of reducing physical branches as online banking grows; Santander has stated that a high share of transactions are now digital. The closures have also been connected with job risks, though the bank has indicated it aims to replace some in-person access via community banking hubs or similar arrangements. These points were reported by several outlets, including BBC, Sky News, MoneyWeek, and others in late January 2026, and additional coverage followed on dates in April and May 2026 relating to ongoing closures.[5][7][8][9]
What this means for you
- If you’re near a Santander branch, it’s prudent to check whether your local branch is on the closure list and what alternatives the bank offers (e.g., nearby branches, online banking, or community hubs). The bank’s own communications emphasize continuing access through other channels and replacement initiatives, but details vary by location.[3][7]
How to verify the exact branches affected
- For the most reliable, up-to-date list of closures, consult Santander’s official announcements or the latest coverage from UK national outlets that publish branch-closure lists. Examples of outlets that tracked closures in early 2026 include BBC, Sky News, MoneyWeek, and MoneySavingExpert.[7][8][9][10]
Would you like me to look up a specific branch or postcode to see if it’s affected and provide nearby alternatives? I can pull the latest listings and summarize the options for your area.