NatWest and RBS to shut 32 branches across the UK - here's everything you need to know about the closures

The banking group is one of many to announce high street branch closures in recent months, with TSB set to shut 70 branches later this year and Lloyds Banking Group announcing in October that it is shutting 41 Lloyds Bank branches and seven Halifax branches.

NatWest says the closures are because of "most customers shifting to mobile and online banking".

If you're unhappy about branch closures and are thinking of switching to a different bank as a result of the announcement, see our Best Bank Accounts guide for the top alternatives - including switching offers of up to £150.

You can still bank online or use Post Office services

If you want to switch to bank online or over the phone, NatWest has a step-by-step guide on how to set up either telephone or online banking. RBS also has step-by-step guides on how to set up telephone or online banking.

NatWest adds that it will introduce new ways for people to access cash with a postal cash delivery service and a "companion card" that can be given to trusted friends and family as a secure and easy way to pay for essentials on your behalf.

NatWest and RBS customers can also deposit and withdraw money from any of the Post Office's 11,500 branches. The Post Office also enables customers to check their balance and pay in cheques. Use the Post Office's branch finder tool to locate your nearest one.

If you need branch access and your outlet is closing, consider switching

If you no longer want to stay with NatWest or RBS (or you don't have a Post Office close by), you might want to consider switching to a bank that does have a local branch nearby – although bear in mind there's no guarantee that too won't close. 

Banks with branches that currently have switching incentives include the following: 

• First Direct 1st Account (access via HSBC branches), which is offering a £150 cash bonus, plus top customer service, and a 1% regular saver when saving up to £300 a month.

• Santander 123 Lite, which is offering a £140 cash bonus, plus 1% to 3% cashback on most bills for a £2 a month fee. 

• Nationwide FlexDirect, which is offering a free £100 cash bonus, plus 2% fixed interest on up to £1,500 and a 0% overdraft.

See our Best Bank Accounts guide for the full details. 

Here's the full list of NatWest and RBS branches closing:

The table below has the complete list of the 32 branches closing.