Bank Accounts

[fruitsalad]

I want to open an account, any recommendations on a decent bank please

[Flonska]

It all depends on what you want from your bank (ie features eg online only) and whether or not you meet the criteria for what's on offer. Can you be a bit more specific?

[Flonska]

This might give you some ideas?

https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/how-to-choose-the-right-bank-account

[gingejbee]

Apparently, according to Which?, First Direct is as good as it gets....online and telephone only.
On the High Street, their choice is Nationwide (still a building society but better than all the big banks).

[Hopkirk]

I'm very happy with Santander

[TonyV]

I'll second that Hopkirk. Does what it says on the tin. Different accounts to choose from depending on your needs / requirements.

[TonyV]

Or if you want to be ethical use a credit union. I have an account with one, when I was having a tough time they were the only people that would let me open an account.

[Buenchico]

I'm happy with Barclays but your own choice will depend upon what your personal needs are. For example, if you'd like a debit card that you can use throughout Europe without any charges being levied by your bank (and/or branches that are open 7 days a week), then Metro Bank might be your first choice:
https://www.metrobankonline.co.uk/

[ummmm]

If you open a Flexaccount with Nationwide you get travel insurance included.

[margarettom]

Decent bank is a bit of an oxymoron but, having said that NatWest have a reward account for which you pay £2 per month and get 2% back on your standing orders for power, phone/ broadband etc. I do quite well out of this and there are no hidden catches. Depends, of course, if you pay everything by direct debit. Been with them for over 50 years and have no complaints. You can still get paper monthly statements if you opt in for them, which suits me, as I don't bank online and like to check the account monthly.

[bhg481]

I think Nationwide have stopped the free travel insurance for new customers. They do have a credit card with cashback and free foreigh use, though. (might be just European).

[roopower]

I'm with Natio wide and have had no problems. If you have a friend already banking with them and you open an account, you both get £100

[murraymints]

been with Barclays for 40 years now...even though have been back in Scotland for a while.... no real problems...on line mostly because of dearth of branches up here.....

[tamborine]

Hsbc as theyre global & excellent on problems by phone.