Eye care

Eye care

Eye care that takes its time

Every eye test runs a full 40 minutes and includes an OCT retinal scan. That is the independent difference.

Retinal scanning equipment in the test room

The eye examination

A full look, start to finish

A full eye examination is 55 pounds and takes about 40 minutes. We check your vision, the health of your eyes, and screen for conditions like glaucoma and diabetes.

It is free on the NHS if you qualify. See the list below, or just ask, and we will check before you book.

Optometrist examining a patient at the slit lamp

On the NHS

Who gets a free eye test

The NHS pays for eye tests for a lot of people. If any of these fit you, your test is free. Ask us if you are not sure.

  • Children under 16
  • Under 19 and in full time education
  • Aged 60 and over
  • On income support, pension credit or certain benefits
  • Living with diabetes or glaucoma
  • Aged 40 or over with a family history of glaucoma

Our services

More than a sight test

OCT retinal scanning

A scan that photographs the layers under the surface of your eye. It helps us spot changes years earlier than a standard test. It is included free with every eye examination, where the chains often charge 10 to 25 pounds.

Contact lens fitting and aftercare

We fit lenses for new and existing wearers, from daily disposables to lenses for trickier prescriptions, and see you for regular aftercare.

Children's eye tests

Gentle tests for children, whether they can read a chart yet or not. Children's NHS tests are free.

Home visits

If you cannot get to the practice because you are housebound, we can bring the eye test to you. Ask us about a home visit.

Emergency red eye appointments

Sudden redness, pain or a change in your vision needs looking at quickly. Call us and we will see you the same day where we can.

Trial frame and lenses used during an eye test

Why independent

The independent difference

Northsight Typical chain
Eye test length 40 minutes10 to 20 minutes
OCT retinal scan Included free10 to 25 pounds
The same optometrist each visit
Home visits for housebound patients Rarely
Same day red eye appointments

A guide based on what patients tell us when they switch to us. Your experience elsewhere may differ.

Ready for a proper eye test?

Book online or call the practice. We will let you know if your test is free on the NHS.