As banking continues to evolve across the UK, many customers in Preston have noticed changes in how and where they manage their money. If you’re wondering about the NatWest Preston opening times, especially as we head into 2025, you’re not alone.
With traditional high-street branches giving way to new digital-first formats, the NatWest Community Banking Hub on Fishergate has now become the main access point for in-person services in the city.
Local writer Jasmine recently visited the new Preston hub to find out exactly what’s changed and how it’s working for the people of Preston. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about opening hours, location, services, and what makes this new model different from the past.
What are the latest NatWest Preston opening times?
The new NatWest Preston hub no longer follows the standard 9-to-5 schedule that many customers were used to. Instead, the hub operates on specialised hours tailored to support both everyday banking and consultations with financial specialists. These adjusted hours reflect the shift away from high-volume walk-in service toward a more appointment and support-focused model.
Here are the current opening times for NatWest Preston’s Community Hub at 97 Fishergate:
NatWest Preston Weekly Opening Hours
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
| Monday | 9:30 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM | 2:00 PM |
| Thursday | Closed (New Year’s Day) | Closed |
| Friday | 9:30 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM | 1:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
Jasmine noted during her visit that the hours are clearly displayed outside and online, though she recommends double-checking before any visit.
Reflecting on her New Year’s week experience, she shared:
“It’s always worth checking the hours during public holidays. I passed by on New Year’s Day and found it closed, not a surprise, but a good reminder that banking is moving with the times, and so should we.”
The branch’s closure on New Year’s Day is part of a broader pattern across NatWest UK, where most branches close for public holidays, with updates provided through their official website and the branch locator tool.
Where exactly is the NatWest hub located in Preston?
The new Community Banking Hub is based at 97 Fishergate, a central location in Preston that’s highly accessible from both the main train station and city bus routes. Fishergate is the city’s busiest shopping street, making this location a convenient choice for shoppers, students, and business professionals alike.
This hub replaces the previous traditional NatWest branches scattered around the city. With its central positioning, it’s become the primary destination for all walk-in and appointment-based banking in Preston.
For those unfamiliar with the area, it’s only a few minutes’ walk from Preston Railway Station, and surrounded by well-known landmarks including the Fishergate Shopping Centre, making it easy to find.
Why has NatWest introduced a community banking hub in Preston?
The shift from traditional bank branches to community hubs is part of a nationwide trend aimed at modernising how banks serve their customers. Rather than maintaining multiple locations with limited services, NatWest is consolidating operations into single, better-equipped hubs.
In Preston, this has led to the creation of a multi-functional space that offers far more than a simple cash desk. The hub supports personal and business banking, integrates digital service support, and provides access to experienced financial advisors.
This change is driven by:
- The steady decline in foot traffic to physical branches
- Increased adoption of online and mobile banking
- The need for flexible spaces that can handle everything from quick deposits to complex financial consultations
While many lament the closure of traditional branches, Jasmine points out that the new hub “feels more purposeful than the old model, it’s not just about transactions, it’s about providing real support when and where it’s needed.”
What services can you expect at the new NatWest Preston hub?
Despite the reduced hours, the new hub offers a wider range of services than many older branches ever did. From simple everyday banking to more detailed financial planning, the Preston hub caters to a wide spectrum of needs.
The open-plan design includes private meeting rooms, self-service machines, workspaces, and support desks. Whether you’re dealing with personal finances, business banking, or seeking mortgage advice, the team here is trained to help.
The services offered include:
- Current account queries and management
- Cash and cheque deposits via machines
- Personal financial advice (savings, credit, loans)
- Business banking services for SMEs and sole traders
- Mortgage consultations and application support
- Digital banking guidance for those new to online services
For complex matters, appointments can be booked online to ensure that a specialist is available when you arrive. This is especially helpful for mortgages or commercial banking needs that require more time and privacy.
Is NatWest Preston still accessible for business banking?
Absolutely. One of the standout features of the new Fishergate hub is its business-focused facilities. Designed with both convenience and confidentiality in mind, it includes meeting spaces where business customers can discuss their needs with specialist advisors.
From Jasmine’s observations, it’s clear that NatWest hasn’t forgotten about Preston’s entrepreneurial community. Instead, it has developed a space that works better for them. Whether you need support setting up a business account, managing payroll solutions, or exploring loan options, the advisors on site are ready to assist often by appointment, to ensure quality time and personalised guidance.
How can customers stay up to date with holiday hours or schedule changes?
While general hours are consistent week to week, they can vary around holidays or due to unexpected events. NatWest encourages all customers to use its online Branch Locator, which is updated regularly and offers postcode-based search.
This tool provides:
- Live opening times for all UK branches and hubs
- Details on ATM and deposit machine availability
- Appointment booking links
- Real-time updates during public holidays and service changes
Jasmine noted that the system is easy to use, even on a mobile phone, and it’s especially handy during periods like Christmas and New Year when hours often shift unexpectedly.
Can appointments be booked for in-person meetings at NatWest Preston?
Yes, and this is an important part of how the new hub functions. With the focus shifting from walk-ins to more meaningful interactions, NatWest now offers a robust appointment system.
Appointments can be booked:
- Online via the NatWest website
- Over the phone
- Sometimes in person at the hub for future dates
These appointments cover a wide range of needs, from opening accounts to mortgage consultations or setting up business services. While some services can be done over the phone, Jasmine was told that Preston’s hub still accommodates in-person bookings for anything that requires face-to-face discussion.
What should customers take away from these changes?
The key takeaway is that NatWest hasn’t left Preston; it’s evolved. The Fishergate Community Banking Hub is a modern, focused space that reflects how people use banks today. Rather than offering long hours for basic transactions, the hub provides targeted support during more refined hours, combining convenience with personal service.
Jasmine summed it up perfectly during her visit:
“It’s not the old-style bank, but it’s not impersonal either. You still get a real person, real advice, and a real presence in the city. It just works differently now – and once you adapt, it works well.”
FAQs About NatWest Preston Opening Times
Are NatWest Preston’s hours the same every weekday?
No. Monday, Tuesday, and Friday run from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but Wednesday hours are shorter, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Is NatWest Preston open on the weekend?
Yes, but only on Saturday mornings from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays.
Does the branch open on bank holidays?
No. It typically closes on bank holidays, such as New Year’s Day, though hours can vary slightly depending on the date.
Can I visit without an appointment?
You can for general enquiries or to use machines, but for specialist services like mortgages or business advice, it’s best to book ahead.
Are digital services still supported at the hub?
Yes. Staff offer guidance for using the mobile app and online banking, especially for those less comfortable with digital platforms.
Is the new location easy to find?
Yes. The hub is located at 97 Fishergate, in the heart of Preston, and is easily walkable from the train station and bus stops.
Can I still get business banking help here?
Definitely. The hub supports small businesses and commercial clients with appointments, advice, and banking services tailored to business needs.
