No first-hand experience, but remember they are all commercial organisations who are in it for profit. They charge a fee for everything they do, and if you let them do the lot - and they can be quite persuasive with 'horror stories' of those who ignored their advice, you'll end up parting with a handsome sum of money. Remember also they get paid commission for account(s) they open for you, which may not be the most suitable for your needs. I think they are only good for those who get reimbursed for any expenses and commissions they incur by their employers, those who are short of time and need to hit the ground running or rich and lazy ones who want others to do the work. Most people should be able to open a bank account without too much trouble, using their home account until UK one is up and running. You start with a basic account without cheque book, debit card and overdraft (which will accept salary payments, give you cash withdrawal and let you set up direct debits for utilities), and after 6 months or so you can upgrade to a full account.