OakNorth Bank plc is a UK-regulated bank established in 2015 that focuses on providing bespoke debt finance for fast-growing businesses and property developers. Its lending typically ranges from £250,000 to £50 million, facilitated through a tech-enabled, relationship-driven model. This lender is suitable for established UK companies with a solid trading history and robust security, offering alternative options to traditional banks for business loans and alternative finance loans.
Key Features of OakNorth Bank
OakNorth combines innovative technology with senior-level engagement, providing tailored lending solutions and transparency through public loan case studies.
- Access to large loan amounts from £250,000 to £50 million with flexible term structures and covenants; see term loans.
- Relationship-driven underwriting offering direct contact with senior credit decision-makers helps expedite credit assessments; learn more about alternative lenders.
- No standardised refusal rules; each application assessed on individual merits, including complex sectors, supporting growth capital and acquisitions.
- Ability to structure several facilities such as term loans, revolving credit, bridging, and development finance within one package; details at credit facility overview.
- Loan case studies available to public demonstrate transparency in lending decisions and risk management.
Funding Eligibility
You may qualify for lending if your business has been trading for at least two years with an annual turnover typically exceeding £1 million. OakNorth generally requires tangible security such as property or business assets, often secured by a debenture. Personal guarantees from directors or major shareholders may also be requested depending on the deal structure. For more on eligibility, see how to qualify for a business loan in the UK and guarantor requirements.
Loan Options with OakNorth Bank
OakNorth offers a range of tailored debt products suited for different business needs, from term loans to property development and bridging finance.
- Bespoke Business Term Loan: Amounts from £250,000 to £50 million, terms 1 to 7 years. Interest rates are typically a margin over SONIA or base rate. Fees include arrangement and potential monitoring costs. See details on term loans.
- Acquisition Finance / Management Buy-Out Loan: £1 million to £50 million, terms 3 to 5 years. Used for acquisitions or shareholder exits with flexible covenants. Usually requires professional due diligence. More on business loans.
- Property Development Finance: £1 million to £30 million, terms up to 36 months with sales period after completion. Funding covers land, construction, and fees with staged drawdowns to manage interest. See bridging loans and commercial mortgages for related options.
- Bridging Loan: £1 million to £25 million, terms 3 to 18 months. Designed to cover short-term asset-backed finance needs, with rapid credit decisions and exit strategies required. Details available at bridge loan.
- Commercial & Buy-to-Let Investment Loan: Loans from £1 million up to £50 million, terms 2 to 10 years, with loan-to-value up to 70%. Suitable for landlords with proven management experience. More information on commercial mortgages.
How to Apply
The application process is online-based with direct engagement from OakNorth's lending team. Expect rapid feedback and clear document requirements.
- Submit an online enquiry form accessible via OakNorth's website or related platforms; learn about the application form process.
- Provide key documents including recent statutory and management accounts, financial projections, bank statements, and property valuations if applicable; check document submission requirements.
- Receive indicative decisions typically within 48 hours. Funding can be arranged in 1–2 weeks for bridging loans and 3–6 weeks for term loans, subject to legal and valuation procedures; see loan approval timeline.
- Complete the legal formalities and execute facility agreements remotely or at OakNorth head office.
Funding Agent's View on OakNorth Bank
OakNorth Bank bridges the gap between traditional banks and alternative lenders by offering flexible, sizeable debt finance tailored primarily for established UK businesses and experienced property professionals. It suits borrowers able to meet security and trading history criteria and who value speed and credit structuring flexibility. For more information on eligibility or to compare loan options, consider visiting loan eligibility requirements, business loans guide, and term loans overview.



