Santander Bank Closures 2025: In 2025, Santander UK is taking the bold step of closing 76 bank branches nationwide, citing changing customer habits and the rapid shift toward digital banking. The move is part of a larger branch network overhaul that also includes converting some branches to reduced‑hours or counter-free formats, and deploying “Community Bankers” to support affected areas.
For many British customers, this will dramatically change how they access in-person banking services. Some may need to travel farther, rely more on Post Office services, or adapt to digital tools. In this article, we break down exactly which branches are closing, when they will shut their doors, the impact on staffing, and what customers should do now, especially those who rely on face-to-face banking.
We will also look at how Santander plans to maintain coverage and support in a digital-first banking environment.
Overview of the Santander 2025 UK Branch Closures
| Aspect | Detail |
| Total Confirmed Closures | 76 branches |
| Additional Branches Affected | 18 (dates pending) |
| Reduced‑Hours Branches | 36 branches from June 30, 2025 |
| Closure Start Date | June 2025 |
| Remaining Branch Network | Combination of full service, reduced hours, counter-free, and Work Cafés |
| Jobs at Risk | Hundreds (exact number under consultation) |
| Coverage Guarantee | ~93% of UK population within 10 miles of a branch |
| Support Strategy | Community Bankers, Post Office banking, digital support |
Why Is Santander Restructuring Its UK Branch Network?
Santander cites a steady decline in foot traffic at branches and a rapid increase in digital transactions as the main drivers of the closures. Over recent years, customers have increasingly preferred mobile and online banking, reducing the demand for in-person visits.
“Santander is shifting to a smaller branch network while ensuring continued local service through Community Bankers, restructured branch formats, and collaboration with Post Office banking services.” – Santander UK, 2025 Branch Restructuring Statement
The reconfiguration aims to balance cost savings with customer access, ensuring physical presence remains in key areas while cutting operation in underused locations. By restructuring, Santander hopes to serve customers more efficiently while investing in its mobile banking app, digital tools, and new branch formats such as Work Cafés.
Which Branches Are Closing? (2025 List)
Here is a selection (not exhaustive) of Santander UK branches scheduled for closure in 2025, along with their planned shutdown dates:
- Aberdare – 24 June
- Arbroath – 17 June
- Armagh – 1 July
- Blackwood – 23 June
- Blyth – 5 August
- Bognor Regis – 14 July
- Borehamwood – 1 July
- Brecon – 25 June
- Brixton – 11 August
- Caernarfon – 7 July
- Camborne – 7 July
- Canvey Island – 5 August
- Clacton – 16 June
- Cleveleys – 23 June
- Colne – 14 July
- Colwyn Bay – 24 July
- Crowborough – 23 July
- Croydon – 16 June
In addition to the confirmed 76 closures, Santander has announced another 18 branches will close, though their closure dates have yet to be finalized. These include branches in towns like Bexhill, Dover, Ilkley, and Uckfield.
Other Branch Format Changes: Reduced Hours & Counter-Free
Starting 30 June 2025, some branches will not close but will operate under reduced hours. Specifically:
- 36 branches will open just three days per week (e.g., Monday/Wednesday/Friday or Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday).
- 18 branches will be converted to counter-free format, meaning no traditional teller counters; transactions will be handled differently within the branch.
These changes aim to maintain a branch presence while cutting costs in lower-traffic areas.
Impact on Staff and Jobs
Hundreds of Santander UK employees could be affected by the restructuring. The bank has indicated that job losses are a possibility, though it plans consultations with unions and efforts to redeploy staff internally where possible.
In prior statements, Santander estimated that up to 750 jobs could be at risk as part of its branch transformation program. The changes underscore how banks are under pressure to optimize operations in a more digital age.
What Customers Should Do Now?
If your local branch is on the closure list or undergoing format changes, here’s how to prepare:
- Check your branch status – find out if your branch is closing, switching hours, or converting format.
- Plan alternate branch visits – identify the nearest open branch or Post Office partner.
- Register for digital banking – enable mobile and online services before your branch closes.
- Ask about Community Banker support – these bankers will provide in‑person help in affected communities.
- Update standing instructions – ensure your payments, deposits, and withdrawals are shifted to other branches or channels before closure.
Proactive changes now can ease the transition when closures take effect.
Will Banking Access Be Lost?
Santander claims that after the restructuring, approximately 93% of the UK population will still live within 10 miles of a branch. They also emphasize that many closing branches are within one mile of another Post Office or branch alternative.
The bank is coordinating with Cash Access UK to maintain cash services and banking hubs in rural or underserved areas. For customers needing face-to-face support, Community Bankers and mobile outreach services will provide weekly presence in affected communities, along with guidance on alternative banking methods.
Broader Industry Context
Santander’s closures follow a trend across multiple UK banks, which are consolidating physical networks amid declining branch traffic. Other major lenders like Lloyds and NatWest are also scaling down branch operations, citing similar digital adoption trends. The transformation reflects a long-term shift in banking, the future is increasingly digital. Banks must adapt or risk becoming financially unsustainable.
FAQs for Santander Bank Closures 2025
1. Why is Santander closing branches?
To align with reduced branch use and rising digital banking demand.
2. Do I need to apply for an alternative branch or service?
No. Existing customers will be informed and supported through the transition.
3. What if my branch becomes reduced hours or counter-free?
You can still access many services, but plan for limited availability and additional travel.
4. Are jobs at risk?
Yes. Santander anticipates significant staff impacts but is seeking redeployment solutions.
5. Will everyone lose a branch nearby?
No. Santander states most people will still be within 10 miles of a branch or Post Office.




