Natwest, one of the major banks in the UK who for me have a reputation of banks which are similar…read morein nature and quite modern, and also a brand which more "four-star" locations than any other major bank, however, this bank goes against those branches in the fact, it seems more like a prison than a bank. Located in Shepherds Bush, just outside W12 mall, a few minutes away from Westfield London, Europe's largest shopping centre and next to Santander. Going into the bank felt like I'd been accused of robbing the bank, going through the big bulky grey doors into a dark, dismal and old-fashioned building. To make matters worse, the resources inside for banking were poor, I don't recall seeing much seating to use while checking emails or doing some online banking, and there also weren't any inside ATM's for basic banking activities, which is poor and rare from Natwest. A branch which goes against the good standards most other Natwest stores show, and probably one of the joint worst branches I've seen in the chain alongside their Manchester - Chinatown branch and sadly warranting a one-star rating.

Never use the outside ATMs at this location. I was visiting from the US and used the ATM on my…read morefirst day of vacation to get UK currency. The machine malfunctioned and kept my VISA card. The bank refused to return my card, saying my bank could explain why it was kept. My bank said nothing was wrong with the card and there was no reason for their management to refuse to return it (I had all indentification and passport). I later talked to many local people who said complaints about the ATMs went unheard. One woman had an account there, and closed her account because of problems at this location. I reached out to Barclays UK and they refused to listen. I would give minus 5 stars if possible. They almost ruined the vacation of a lifetime!

With many Santander branches closing or due to close in the area, this location perhaps is more…read moreuseful than ever, part of the W12 shopping centre (albeit just outside the main entrance next to Natwest) in Shepherds Bush, London. The bank its-self is very small and basic, it lacks a good number of basic banking machines and even seating which most banks have, the seating it did have also seemed rather uncomfortable compared too usual too. Shame. The bank didn't stand out as overly clean or modern, adding to its' woes, albeit I also did find the same of Natwest right next store which was even worse. A good location which is useful if you are with Santander, but if you're looking for a nice, modern bank nearby, I'd say to head to Halifax or Natwest, both who have branches across the way in Westfield London. It took some difficulty to rate this bank as it is pretty basic, but with outside cash machines and an okay location, it is useful even though it isn't a great place to bank. 2*

Halifax at Westfield London is one of two major banks inside Europe's largest shopping centre in…read morethe Shepherds Bush area of Kensington, London. It is pretty handy in its location, with cash machines which can be accessed whenever the main bank is open or closed, perhaps to withdraw cash to spend in the mall. The branch isn't as modern as one would expect as it is a modern mall but basically falls into the average look and feel of a Halifax store, albeit a little smaller. The opening hours are quite useful being open until 18:30 daily, only shutting on Sunday's but this is common for 99% of banks in the UK. There is a small amount of seating, but it isn't the most comfortable or relaxing seating, but it still is one of the better places in the mall perhaps to sit down and relax for a moment, connecting onto the reasonable free-wifi, perhaps to do some online banking, yelping and everything in-between. Location, free-wifi (common for every bank), long opening hours and cash machines make this location "A-OK", a three-star rating is warranted mainly for ease and location.

I recently contacted JN branch (London) as I wanted to get some information regarding the relevant…read moredocuments needed to close an account. The agent was helpful but I was surprised as I was ask for 2 character references, 2 recent wage slips and NI number. I am not asking for a loan /mortgage. I am slightly confused as to why these documents are required!!!! Yes appreciate the need for photo ID and proof of address. I think this request is completely bizarre and unnecessary.

instead of helping me, i now have to return in the morning to unblock my account. even calling help…read moreline is a waste of time, no one answers the phone. clearly Metro bank is in a mess, poorly managed.

My mother opened a bank account 2 months ago, and it has been blocked 1 week ago without ANY notice…read moreor ANY explanation whatsoever. What she just did was depositing her savings and making transfer, never had any debit, never went overdraft. They keep ignoring our calls or redirecting them to the customer service, which keeps telling us they don't know the reason and that i have to wait a letter (which still hasn't arrived). We can't have access to our own money saved over the years and we don't know even why.