The History of Yorkshire Bank

Putting others first since 1859

Yorkshire Bank was founded by Colonel Edward Akroyd. As an employer of many, he was familiar with the domestic and financial challenges of his workforce, and he became deeply concerned with their welfare. So he started up Yorkshire Bank to help the people of Yorkshire to help themselves. Anyone could open an account with as little as a penny. In the first year of business, almost two million pennies were invested.

More than 150 years later, we’re proud to continue his legacy by helping people in the communities we live and work in. We've always helped you strive for financial independence. Now, as an independent bank once more, we're working as hard as ever to meet your expectations.

Take a look at our timeline to see how charitable work and community projects have played such an important part in making us who we are today.