Opening a UK bank account from the US

I've been hearing how difficult it is to open a bank account in the UK when first arriving. Would it be beneficial, or even possible, for my husband and I to open an account at, say, Barclays, from the US? Has anyone done this, and if so, what was your experience?

Also-- I prefer to use credit unions instead of banks. Is there a nationwide credit union that I could access not only from my home, but also from many other cities if we were traveling?

I'm not sure about credit unions, you may be better looking at building societies, which I think is a UK equivalent.

Take a look at www.moneysavingexpert.com for a best-buy table for interest rates, flexibility etc.


Vicky

Thanks!