The best bank account is really an impossible title to claim, as each customer wants different things from their account. Some want extra interest on their savings, some want cheaper borrowing for their debts, some want extra protection such as travel insurance, and then there are those who simply want a place to keep their money safe.

The following will take a look at some of the largest banks in England: HSBC, The Royal Bank of Scotland, Alliance & Leicester, Lloyds TSB, Halifax and Barclays, to see what their bank accounts are all about.

*Please also note that Natwest are a subsidiary of RBS, and their accounts are virtually exactly the same.