Former NatWest bank in High Road Leytonstone put on sale

The building at 694 High Road, Leytonstone has been listed for sale on Rightmove and is marketed by estate agents Keller Williams.

The agents describe this as a “rare opportunity” to acquire a commercial building of “architectural presence and historic significance”.

The building was built in in the early 20th century (Image: Keller Williams)

According to a brochure, the building was constructed in the early 20th century as a purpose-built banking hall and housed a NatWest bank for more than 100 years but now stands vacant.

The NatWest branch is believed to have closed permanently in 2017.

The brochure describes the building as having a “commanding façade, generous internal volumes, and unmistakable civic character”.

The NatWest branch is believed to have closed in 2017 (Image: Keller Williams)

Internally, the former banking hall provides a large open-plan space with “excellent” ceiling height and natural light, supported by ancillary accommodation including offices, storage, and a reinforced vault structure which is “increasingly sought after by modern financial, advisory, and fintech occupiers”.

An asking price is not included in the listing but the brochure says “price on application”.

The listing includes several computer-generated images showing the building in various potential uses from a punk-rock studio to a futuristic office space.

CGI of building in potential use as a rock studio (Image: Keller Williams)

The brochure notes the site as being most suitable for private banking or wealth management firms, advisory, professional or institutional occupiers or owner-occupiers seeking long-term strategic premises.

Leytonstone Underground station was highlighted as being within close proximity.

CGI of building in potential use as futuristic office space (Image: Keller Williams)

The listing reads: “Occupying a prominent position on Leytonstone’s High Road, the building announces itself with a classical stone façade, articulated by pilasters and a formal entrance of institutional character.

“Its architecture is distinctive, authoritative, and irreplaceable a level of civic dignity that modern commercial stock simply cannot replicate.

“Inside, the space reveals a rare combination of heritage gravitas and modern adaptability.

“Whether preserved with restraint or reimagined through a contemporary design lens, the building offers a canvas of genuine distinction.”