I didn't use HCBC and obtained everything before leaving the UK.

A single research trip and a stop to a bank of one's choice will enable an account to be set up very easily. Even with the tightening of the recent rules, I don't see any problems. Paying to set up any account seems wonky to me but each to their own and all that.

There are too few HSBC banks, not that I use offline banks that much but when I do I would not choose one with so few outlets.
When I first arrived I opened up a BMO account simply because it was close to where I worked.
I have since moved to TD for my day to day banking and ING direct for my savings. Best of both worlds for me.