Major high street bank reopening branches in U-turn after shutting 800 locations

Major high street bank reopening branches in U-turn after shutting 800 locationsIn a major U-turn after shutting 800 branches across the UK - Barclays has announced they are bringing back in-person experiences and value customer service over chatbotsCommentsMoneyNiamh Kirk Lifestyle Writer14:07, 05 Apr 2026Updated 14:11, 05 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesMore branches are set to open after 800 were closed down(Image: Tang Ming Tung via Getty Images)There's nothing more frustrating than getting stuck with a chatbot when trying to sort your online banking queries.‌That's why Barclays bosses have announced they are set to open more high-street branches again to give customers that "in person" experience and bring back traditional banking. It's a huge U-turn for the bank, who shut 800 stores across the UK, as chief executive Vim Maru put a pause on closures of branches.‌In a bid to bring back bank managers, Mr Varu, who joined Barclays in 2023 is bringing back stores after towns have been left with no in-person facilities. It comes as digital banks such as Revolut and Monzo become huge competitors in the current account market in the UK.‌READ MORE: Cash ISA paying 4.57pc is 'flexible' and 'pick of the week'View 2 ImagesThe Barclays boss has admitted customers value in-person experiences(Image: ASphotowed via Getty Images)Over the past 10 years, thousands of banks have closed high-street branches across the country, including Barclays, leaving just 206 open around the UK.Varu said he is planning to expand the number of in-person branches, and told The Times many customers "still value physical presence".‌In an interview with the newspaper, he said: "What we're trying to do is something that allows us to differentiate in front of our customers. Of course we're going to be great in digital – but we're going to be there for you when you need some help and support. You're not going to be stuck in some chat...