The history of Lloyds Banking Group

At your service since 1695.

Our history at a glance

The story of Lloyds Banking Group stretches back to 1695.

1695

Bank of Scotland was founded in Edinburgh on 17 July 1695. It was Scotland’s first bank.
1765

Lloyds Bank was founded in June 1765 as Taylors & Lloyds. It was Birmingham’s first bank.
1815

Scottish Widows officially opened its doors in January 1815 in Edinburgh. It is Scotland’s oldest life assurance company.
1852

The Halifax was founded in 1852 in a pub. It was set up to help working people buy or build their own homes.
1995

Lloyds Bank merged with TSB plc to form Lloyds TSB. All branches were rebranded in 1999.
2001

The Halifax and Bank of Scotland merged to form HBOS plc.
2009

Lloyds Banking Group was formed when Lloyds TSB took over HBOS plc at the height of the financial crisis.
2013

Lloyds Bank returned to the high street, as Lloyds and TSB once again became two separate banks.

Explore our rich heritage further by taking a look at our timeline.

Each of our brands has their own unique heritage.