Top 12 Crypto Friendly Banks in the UK

Introduction

Cryptocurrency is booming, and having a crypto friendly bank in the UK can make all the difference—whether you’re trading, transferring, or staking. From digital neobanks to traditional high-street veterans and business-focused platforms, the right bank ensures smooth, compliant access to crypto markets. This post covers the Top 12 Crypto Friendly Banks in the UK, explaining who they are, why users love them, key features, and who each is best suited for.

What Does a “Crypto-Friendly” UK Bank Look Like?

A crypto-friendly UK bank offers financial services that actively support users interacting with cryptocurrencies. These banks facilitate seamless transactions to and from regulated crypto exchanges and refrain from blocking legitimate payments or freezing accounts due to crypto-related activity. They strike a balance between security and flexibility, supporting innovation while maintaining compliance with FCA regulations.

These institutions are particularly important for investors, traders, and crypto businesses looking for reliability, speed, and transparency in handling their crypto funds.

What services should a crypto-friendly bank offer?

• Smooth transfers to/from exchanges
• Transparent communication on crypto policies
• No arbitrary account closures
• Optional in-app features like trading or staking

Can a traditional bank still be crypto-friendly?

Yes, several traditional banks have adopted crypto-friendly practices even without offering in-app crypto services. Banks like Barclays and RBS typically allow payments to reputable exchanges without issue.

In contrast, fintechs such as Revolut and Wirex offer direct access to crypto assets within their platforms, including staking, wallets, and crypto cards. These neobanks appeal to modern investors who want streamlined access to both fiat and digital currencies in a single ecosystem.

Why Are Some UK Banks Still Anti-Crypto?

Despite growing acceptance of digital assets, many UK banks still maintain cautious or outright restrictive policies toward crypto-related activity. This hesitance stems from several key concerns:

• Fraud prevention: The rise in crypto scams has made banks wary of exposure to high-risk transfers.
• Regulatory pressure: Unclear or evolving FCA guidelines make banks hesitant to support crypto fully.
• Reputational risk: Traditional banks fear association with volatile or controversial crypto projects.
• AML and KYC enforcement: Compliance concerns push banks to restrict high-volume or anonymous transfers.

While the landscape is slowly shifting, many legacy institutions remain defensive in their approach.

Can you buy crypto directly through a UK bank?

Direct crypto purchasing within UK bank platforms remains limited to a few fintechs. Most traditional banks only facilitate external transfers to regulated exchanges.

• Revolut: Offers full in-app crypto buying, staking, and portfolio tracking.
• Wirex: Allows crypto swaps, a crypto card, and earning interest on holdings.
• Monzo & Starling: Permit transfers but don’t offer in-app crypto functionality.

Which UK banks allow crypto buying in-app?

• Revolut: Buy/sell over 80+ cryptocurrencies
• Wirex: Fiat-to-crypto swap and crypto card

How Do UK Bank Policies on Crypto Compare?

The stance on crypto varies across UK banks, from highly supportive to completely restrictive. Understanding this scale helps users avoid blocked transactions or unnecessary friction.

Bank Type	Examples	Crypto Support
Fintech Banks	Revolut, Wirex	In-app crypto, staking, transfers
Challenger Banks	Monzo, Starling	Transfer-friendly but no trading tools
Traditional Banks	Barclays, RBS, Lloyds	Cautious; allow transfers to major exchanges
Restrictive Banks	TSB, Chase UK, Metro Bank	Often block or flag crypto transactions

What Are the Risks of Using a UK Bank for Crypto?

Banking with crypto isn’t always smooth. Even crypto-friendly banks may enforce strict monitoring to comply with regulations. Risks include:

• Account freezes due to suspected fraud or volume spikes.
• Declined or delayed transfers to crypto exchanges.
• Low monthly limits for crypto-related spending.
• Customer service delays in resolving flagged transactions.

How can I avoid these issues?

• Use FCA-registered exchanges only.
• Inform your bank before large or frequent crypto transactions.
• Split banking across traditional and crypto-friendly providers.
• Keep transaction notes clear (e.g., reference the exchange name).

Should I use two bank accounts?

Yes. Maintaining separate accounts for traditional and crypto-related banking is a common best practice. This reduces the risk of account limitations and helps keep your transactions organised.

• Use one account exclusively for crypto-related transfers.
• Keep your main banking activity separate for everyday needs.
• Helps avoid scrutiny from banks on high-volume activity.
• Ensures continuity if one bank freezes crypto-related funds.

Top 12 Crypto Friendly Banks in the UK

1. Revolut

Revolut stands at the forefront of crypto-friendly banking in the UK. It integrates digital assets into everyday finance, offering users an all-in-one platform for spending, saving, and investing. With FCA registration and real-time trading tools, it’s the go-to choice for modern investors.

• Why users love it:
  In-app crypto trading, staking support, and seamless UX.

• Features include:

  • Trade 80+ cryptocurrencies

  • Crypto staking (ADA, DOT, ETH)

  • Real-time price alerts

  • FCA-registered

• Best for:
  Investors seeking a full crypto experience within their banking app.

2. Monzo

Monzo is a mobile-first challenger bank that allows frictionless transfers to FCA-compliant crypto exchanges. While it doesn’t offer built-in crypto features, it supports external crypto activity without common banking hurdles.

• Why users love it:
  Quick GBP transfers to exchanges and transparent payment tracking.

• Features include:

  • Mobile-first app interface

  • Zero blockages for exchange payments

  • Regulated by FCA

• Best for:
  Users who prefer using centralized exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, or Gemini.

3. Starling Bank

Starling maintains a neutral yet effective position on crypto. It doesn’t block transactions and offers ultra-fast Faster Payments to regulated exchanges — ideal for day traders or frequent movers of funds.

• Why users love it:
  Speed, simplicity, and consistent support for crypto transactions.

• Features include:

  • Instant GBP transfers

  • Great mobile and web platforms

  • Business-friendly accounts

• Best for:
  Traders who need quick exchange deposits and withdrawals.

4. Wirex

Wirex is a hybrid crypto-fiat platform offering spending, staking, and storage features in one app. It bridges the gap between traditional banking and digital assets with its Visa crypto debit card.

• Why users love it:
  Crypto card with live conversion and high staking rewards.

• Features include:

  • Spend crypto using a debit card

  • Multi-crypto wallet

  • Earn up to 16% APY

  • Easy fiat-to-crypto swaps

• Best for:
  Users who want daily spending power with crypto rewards.

5. Barclays

Barclays is a traditional bank with an open attitude toward crypto transactions. While it doesn’t offer native crypto services, it rarely flags payments to regulated platforms, making it a discreet ally.

• Why users love it:
  Low interference in crypto-related payments and secure infrastructure.

• Features include:

  • Smooth crypto transfers

  • Trustworthy UK legacy banking

  • Consistent payment approvals

• Best for:
  Traditional banking users who also engage in crypto investing.

6. Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS)

RBS does not restrict crypto usage, making it a reliable partner for straightforward exchange transactions. Though it offers no in-house crypto tools, users face minimal payment issues.

• Why users love it:
  Rare transaction blocks and stable customer support.

• Features include:

  • Secure UK banking experience

  • Fast payment processing

  • FCA-regulated operations

• Best for:
  Cautious investors needing consistent banking with light crypto involvement.

7. Lloyds Bank

Lloyds takes a watchful stance on crypto but still enables transactions when performed responsibly. Users can fund their crypto accounts with some limitations.

• Why users love it:
  Allows regulated crypto transfers while ensuring safety.

• Features include:

  • Standard banking tools

  • Moderate transaction approvals

  • Strong anti-fraud controls

• Best for:
  Occasional traders or those who prioritize security over volume.

8. NatWest

NatWest allows crypto activity within controlled limits, especially for mainstream exchanges. Its fraud prevention system sometimes triggers spending caps.

• Why users love it:
  Stable operations with clear policies on crypto movement.

• Features include:

  • Monthly crypto spending limits

  • Secure mobile app

  • Accepts transfers to known platforms

• Best for:
  Users who do moderate crypto investing and want policy clarity.

9. Xace

Xace is a challenger banking service designed specifically for high-risk industries like crypto, iGaming, and fintech. It offers tailored support for startups and freelancers.

• Why users love it:
  Crypto-native business banking with high compliance standards.

• Features include:

  • Business & freelancer accounts

  • Multi-currency IBANs

  • Built for the blockchain economy

• Best for:
  Crypto businesses, Web3 founders, and high-risk sector professionals.

10. Cashaa

Cashaa delivers a rare blend of fiat and crypto services under one roof. It supports global businesses with crypto payrolls, multi-currency accounts, and compliance-ready infrastructure.

• Why users love it:
  Perfect for crypto firms with global operations and regulated needs.

• Features include:

  • USD, GBP, and crypto accounts

  • Payroll and employee crypto disbursements

  • Custody and DeFi support

• Best for:
  Blockchain businesses and global teams handling crypto finance.

11. Orounda

Orounda supports blockchain platforms with a forward-thinking banking solution. It’s ideal for companies that need scale, compliance, and fast onboarding.

• Why users love it:
  Easy-to-integrate solutions and blockchain-aware support staff.

• Features include:

  • Digital IBAN accounts

  • Crypto-friendly onboarding

  • International licensing

• Best for:
  Crypto-native startups scaling across Europe and the UK.

12. Nationwide

Nationwide flies under the radar yet supports crypto payments with minimal issues. It’s favored by casual investors and those who prefer a traditional banking feel.

• Why users love it:
  Quietly reliable with few restrictions on crypto transactions.

• Features include:

  • Friendly payment processing

  • Longstanding UK reputation

  • Solid online banking tools

• Best for:
  Individual investors wanting stable, no-fuss crypto transfers.

Rank	Bank Name	Crypto Friendliness	Key Features
1	Revolut	✅ Highly Friendly	In-app crypto trading, 80+ coins, staking, instant conversion
2	Monzo	✅ Friendly	Supports transfers to FCA-registered exchanges like Coinbase
3	Starling Bank	✅ Moderately Friendly	Allows transfers to crypto platforms; no direct trading
4	Wirex	✅ Highly Friendly	Crypto debit card, multi-asset wallets, staking options
5	Barclays	✅ Friendly	Historically supportive of exchanges, low transfer issues
6	Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS)	✅ Moderately Friendly	Limited restrictions, user-reported support for transfers
7	Lloyds Bank	⚠️ Mixed	Supports some transfers, but sometimes blocks crypto-related payments
8	NatWest	⚠️ Mixed	Allows some crypto exchange transfers but flags high activity
9	Xace	✅ Crypto-Specialized	Built for crypto businesses, IBAN support, crypto-friendly accounts
10	Cashaa	✅ Business-Friendly	Crypto-focused business banking, multi-asset accounts
11	Orounda	✅ Business-Focused	Banking infrastructure for blockchain companies
12	Nationwide	✅ Friendly	Allows crypto transfers, fewer reported restrictions than competitors

Are Business Bank Accounts Crypto-Friendly Too?

Most UK high-street banks are reluctant to offer services to crypto-related businesses. However, crypto-native platforms fill this gap with tailored solutions that prioritise:

• Fast onboarding for blockchain companies.
• GBP and EUR IBANs for global payments.
• API access and compliance for exchanges.

Which banks support crypto business accounts?

• Xace: Multi-industry, supports gaming, crypto, fintech
• Cashaa: Payroll, multi-currency, and custody support
• Orounda: Scalable banking for exchanges and token platforms

Which Business Bank accounts have worked best for me?

Based on industry feedback and practical use cases:

• Xace: Great for freelancers, consultants, and crypto startups.
• Cashaa: Ideal for global firms with multi-currency needs and payroll support.
• Orounda: Built for scaling exchanges, NFT projects, and token platforms.

Each platform supports regulated environments and offers custom features like virtual cards, mass payouts, and crypto payment integrations.

What should you watch out for?

Choosing a crypto-friendly bank doesn’t eliminate all risks. Here’s what to monitor:

• Hidden fees for cross-border payments or currency conversions.
• Delays in onboarding due to complex KYC verification.
• Low transaction thresholds that may restrict growth.
• Lack of clarity in crypto-related terms and conditions.

Are UK Credit and Debit Cards Blocked for Crypto Purchases?

Some banks limit card usage for crypto due to fraud prevention policies. However, crypto-friendly banks generally allow such transactions:

Bank	Allows Crypto Card Payments?
Revolut	Yes
Starling	Yes
Barclays	Yes
TSB	No
Metro Bank	No

Tip: Use cards linked to Revolut or Starling for reliable exchange deposits.

What is the Future of Banking and Crypto in the UK?

The UK’s financial sector is slowly adapting to crypto adoption. As the FCA provides clearer guidelines and public interest grows, banks will need to evolve or risk losing market share to fintechs.

Future trends include:

• Integration of wallets and DeFi services into mobile banking apps.
• Stablecoin and token-based lending features.
• AI-driven fraud detection specifically for crypto accounts.

Which UK Crypto-Friendly Bank Allows Huge Bank Transfers For Crypto Purchases?

Verified business users on platforms like Revolut Business or Wirex Business can access higher transfer limits. These accounts are ideal for:

• OTC (over-the-counter) crypto purchases.
• Institutional traders.
• Exchanges and high-volume crypto firms.

How has Brexit Influenced the Regulatory Environment for Crypto-Friendly Banks?

Brexit gave the UK autonomy to develop its own crypto legislation, independent of EU rules like MiCA. This freedom has:

• Encouraged innovation in fintech and digital assets.
• Allowed the FCA to refine local crypto regulations.
• Created faster sandbox testing environments for crypto firms.

However, the post-Brexit transition also introduced short-term confusion among banks regarding cross-border compliance, delaying some crypto services until clear policies were enacted.

Conclusion

Navigating the UK banking landscape as a crypto user or business requires awareness and careful selection. Fintechs like Revolut and Wirex lead the charge in integrating crypto into daily finance, while traditional banks like Barclays and RBS provide reliable, transfer-friendly options. For business users, platforms like Xace, Cashaa, and Orounda are tailored to crypto operations.

As regulation matures and adoption rises, more UK banks will likely join the crypto revolution. Until then, choosing the right banking partner is critical for smooth, secure, and scalable crypto activity.

FAQs

What is the most crypto-friendly bank in the UK?
Revolut, followed by Wirex and Monzo for retail users. Xace and Cashaa stand out for business accounts.

Can I use my UK bank to buy Bitcoin?
Yes, but only through banks like Revolut or Wirex. Others allow transfers but not direct buying.

Do UK banks block crypto payments?
Some do, especially TSB, Metro Bank, and Chase UK. Most fintechs and some traditional banks support regulated transfers.

Are crypto businesses allowed to open UK bank accounts?
Yes, but only with specialised providers like Xace, Cashaa, or Orounda. High-street banks often decline these applications.

Has Brexit helped or hurt crypto banking in the UK?
It helped by giving the UK control over crypto regulation, but introduced temporary confusion for banks handling cross-border crypto flows.