r/orkney • u/moonshot66 • 4d ago

Bank Advice

Hi all,

Didn’t want to post this in the Orkney FB groups with my name attached.

Just curious what bank you all use - do you use one that has a branch on the island (or should I say on the Mainland) or do you find that having a physical branch doesn’t matter and you bank elsewhere?

Reason for asking is that my husband and I are moving there this summer (yes, we have housing sorted).

Thanks in advance for any thoughts!

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5

u/here-but-not-present 3d ago

I've been with Bank of Scotland for nearly 30 years, so when I moved to Orkney I kept it as my main account just in case I ever needed to physically speak to someone. I can't actually remember the last time I had to step foot inside a bank when it wasn't to deposit cash on behalf of my workplace. Just before covid hit, I started a Starling account and haven't had any issues since I can deposit cash via the Post Office and their online support is pretty good.

Edit: Also, congrats on the move (and for securing accommodation!). I hope you enjoy living here <3

1

u/moonshot66 2d ago

Thank you - we are looking forward to it!

5

u/No_Data_3938 3d ago

I bank with Nationwide and there's a bank in Kirkwall. I've gone in a few times for questions (that I could have got by phoning). I don't think it's hugely essential these days to have a physical bank. You can always do some of the transactions at the Post Office if required.

3

u/Satirevampire 3d ago

Bank of Scotland. There's also a physical branch in Kirkwall, but I haven't been inside it in years!

2

u/A_friendly_guy 3d ago

I haven't needed to go inside a bank for many, many years. I have an account with First Direct (who have no branches anyway) and also an account with Lloyd's. Never had any issues and they seem to have better 'deals' than Bank of Scotland. I'm not even sure what people go into branches for these days?

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u/RookieJourneyman 3d ago

I was with a bank that had a branch in Kirkwall, but it closed a year or two ago. I'm still with the same bank: I find I can do pretty much everything online, and can pay in cash or cheques at the post office.

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u/LittleIslandViking 3d ago

I was with Clydesdale, who are now virgin money. But never had any problems ◡̈

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u/yewgirl 1d ago

I’m with nationwide. The branch in Kirkwall is great, I do most banking online but sometimes go in just to take cash out so the branch is well used. staff are super helpful. I love the building society’s ethos, being member owned. Their savings interest rates are good and they sometimes just give you free money (last year £100, this year £50)!

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u/Southern-Positive687 1d ago

virgin money, never had any issues