Banks with decent customer service

[Chatbotsarerubbish]

Does such a thing exist?

I just contacted Natwest to ask about the interest rate on my ISA, which is pretty low. Managed to get around Cora (chatbot) to talk to a human. Interest rate was confirmed (low as thought) so asked if there were any better products. The agent then advised I move all of my ISA savings into my current account.

Now obviously this is not good advice, so I said that this didn't sound like a great idea. Agent disappears and chat says I've been inactive (despite writing a few "where are you"). I get transferred, new agent says they can see I want to close my ISA and transfer the money into my current account. At this point I'm pretty annoyed, and decide to end the call. However - it did make me think that this was a simple question, and it turned into a right HOOHAH, and what would happen if I needed help with something more complex or urgent.

Any recommendations for banks/building societies with good, easy accessible customer service.

My main bank is tsb absolutely no issues whatsoever in the 8 years I've banked with them

I also have chase I only use this for buying and transferring because I get cash back for 1 year

I like Coventry Building Society. Find them pretty responsive

another enthusiastic endorsement of first direct from me.

I've also had very good service on the phone from Tesco bank, although they are in the process of trying to merge with Barclays so not sure how that will affect things.

First direct - haven’t had a negative experience in over 30 years, always great.

Another first direct customer here. 25 years and have nothing but praise.

Another vote for First Direct. There's a reason that they consistently win Customer Service awards.

I also hear very good things about Handelsbanken, but they are not interested unless you are fairly well-off.

DH banks with Handelsbanken. They used to be fantastic but deteriorated sharply 2-3 years ago and now a PITA, he is looking to change soon, when mortgage can be changed etc.

I’ve been with First Direct for about thirty years, recommended by a finance guy at NCT. Only moan is they have just discontinued the weekly text with your balance.

Eh? I never knew about that!

First Direct.
Been a customer hit about 30 years - all good.

First Direct, you get through to someone really fast, the phone has never rung more than 4 times. My children's bank accounts are with Halifax, I had to call them today, was on hold for around 20 minutes but the man has really helpful and patient. Nationwide are supposed to have good children's savings accounts too.