I've just recently moved to London from the US and was having a hell of a time getting settled in,…read moremost of which was caused by not being able to procure a UK bank account. It's a bit of a roundabout issue here where you can't get decent housing without a bank account and you can't get a bank account without decent housing. I had no idea that the credit check done on you is actually done on your place of residence and the credit attached there, not necessarily all just you. Very frustrating. At my wits end, and after going to several banks in and around Soho (and getting very rude and exasperated responses to my questions - as if I was doing something wrong by moving to London and not knowing my way around the financial system), I came across this HSBC in Chinatown. Bruce is my HERO. Not only was he completely accommodating to my mistake of thinking an appointment was way earlier than it actually was, he was very reassuring, informative, patient, kind, and most of all, funny. Thank you so much Bruce for easing my final transition into London life and helping me feel like a productive adult once again. You were the only one out of several bank employees in Soho that didn't treat me like an idiot and instead like a friend. I can't tell you how much I appreciate this, and most of all, appreciate you alleviating all the stress from this last stage. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I had a smooth experience here compared to other branches in the area. The staff were professional,…read morepatient, and actually took the time to explain things clearly without rushing. It made a big difference, especially when dealing with something as important as banking setup. The location is convenient, and overall service felt reliable and well-managed. Definitely a better option if you're looking for helpful customer support in central London. On a side note, if you're also dealing with property setup, renovations, or construction work, I found some useful services here: https://timberconstructionltd.co.uk

They're not always that busy, which is nice, and when I use them all of the cashiers are helpful…read moreand can answer my questions. They were very personable when I was setting up my new account, and even posted information through my letterbox on their way home one night, rather than making me wait for the post! Excellent service.

When I saw the queue at the branch up the street (on the corner next to Westminster Cathedral), I…read moredecided that my deposit could wait. Walking back to the office, I was pleased to spot the familiar blue logo out of the corner of my eye. No queue here! A couple of cashpoints ("ATM's" to Americans) inside and one outside, plus a handful of business and personal banking teller windows. My deposit was quick and efficient and done in a flash. When I need banking, I'll be back to this branch again! The only downside is that the tellers here are behind a serious amount of glass. It did not give me a very warm and fuzzy feeling and I was very glad to be back on my way with my cash in my account!

After the fiasco at Barclays (see previous review), going to HSBC was a breath of fresh air. They…read moreset up an appointment for me, told me exactly what I would need to bring, made some jokes and sent me on my way. I came back after a weekend trip to Paris, and was met by a lovely lady by the name of Joan Reid. She deserves serious recognition for her customer service. Setting everything up was no problem, and she told me she was available to help me out if anything ever did come up, providing me with her work email address (not on the business cards). Awesome! I took a star away because I couldn't get set up on the same day as I came in, but that might have been an unrealistic expectation.

Clean, easy, efficient. This Barclay's branch is right next to Spitalfields and that gives it a…read morebonus star for me. And an outside cashpoint that works. Who knew such a thing was possible? Sadly, not open on Saturday.

This is one of the best Barclays branches i have come across so far in London…read more Because the queue is never very long and the staff are super nice and smiley which always helps to brighten up ones day. Service with a smile that's what I like.

The advisor is nice and quick, ready for the next customer at all times unlike most banks I walk…read moreinto. The cash machine being situated on the corner is great because you can see just who is walking by on either side which for your own security measures is great. Haven't used it for more sit down purposes yet but for the brief check ins on the way to the train station, its situated well at the end of the Lewisham High Street.

There are not many independent building societies, certainly that is still owned by their members,…read morebut this is one if I was not already tied to one would have chosen this one.

I want to compliment and thank all the staff at the Barclays Ealing Broadway branch. I hate going…read moreto the bank and most services, but this was one of the easiest experiences. The lady working the long line was very thorough, polite, and patient. She listened !! Then inside another agent was extremely patient with me despite another customer trying to demand her attention. The agent was so so calm, professional and again thorough. Every person I have ever come across over the past few years at this branch have been genuine, polite, professional and just kind to everyone. So thank you Barclays Ealing Broadway. C g Rawlins

I came here to put some money in my account and was really shocked by the huge queue when I came…read morein. Good thing was that it was really nice climate in here not like the boiling heat outside. After waiting for about 2 minutes a friendly man came over and asked everyone if they had to do some payments to their own account. YES, me!!! So he brought me over to the machines and showed me how to do it myself! I was so happy and thankful and I really appreciate that service!