Eye Examinations
Expert eyecare for every age, every need, every visit.
When Should You Have an Eye Test?
Most people should have an eye examination every two years, unless your optometrist advises otherwise.
You should book sooner if you:
Notice changes in your vision
Experience headaches or eye strain
Struggle with reading or screen work
See floaters, flashes or blurred areas
Have a family history of eye disease
Have health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
Even if everything feels normal and you vision feels comfortable, routine sight tests help protect your eye health and can detect problems long before symptoms appear.
Why Regular Eye Tests Matter
An eye examination does much more than check whether you need glasses or contact lenses.
During your appointment, your optometrist looks for early signs of:
A detailed history and symptoms check
Vision assessment for both distance and near vision
Eye pressure and field of vision checks where required
Advanced retinal imaging, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), which creates a detailed three-dimensional scan of the back of the eye
We use modern technology alongside good, traditional listening and care.
NHS and Private Eye Tests
We offer eye examinations for both NHS-funded and private patients, with the same high standard of clinical care for everyone.
NHS Sight Tests
If you are eligible, your eye examination will be free of charge under the NHS. This includes a full sight test and all essential checks of your vision and eye health.
You may qualify for an NHS-funded sight test if you:
are under 16, or under 19 in full-time education
are 60 or over
have diabetes or glaucoma
have a close relative with glaucoma (aged over 40)
receive certain benefits
have been advised by an ophthalmologist
We can confirm your eligibility when you book.
Private Sight Test
If you do not qualify for NHS funding, a private sight test is available at £59.90. This examination includes the same thorough checks and clinical expertise as an NHS sight test.
Premium Sight Test
For the most detailed assessment of your eye health, our Premium Sight Test is available at £84.90 and includes everything in a standard examination, plus additional advanced diagnostics:
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) is available in most practices. Please contact your local practice for more information.
NHS patients can upgrade to the Premium Sight Test for £25.
What’s Involved in Your Eye Examination
Your examination may include:
A detailed history and symptoms discussion
Understanding your vision, lifestyle and any concerns.
Vision testing
Checking clarity and focus for distance, intermediate and near vision.
Eye health checks
Examining the front and back of the eye using high-quality optical instruments.
Eye pressure measurement
Important for assessing glaucoma risk.
Visual field (peripheral vision) assessment
Where needed, to map areas of vision you may not notice changing.
Digital retinal photography
Captures detailed images of the back of your eye.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
A 3D scan that reveals layers beneath the retina, helping detect early signs of eye disease long before symptoms develop.
After Your Eye Test
Your optometrist will:
explain your results clearly
discuss whether your prescription has changed
advise on glasses, contact lenses, or further tests
arrange follow-up appointments if needed
refer you to specialist care when appropriate
If you choose new glasses, our team will help with:
style and colour selection
lens options and coatings
fitting for comfort, clarity and face shape
Where possible, you should be dispensed at the same practice where you are tested
This is recommended by the College of Optometrists, as it ensures:
your results, measurements and clinical notes are used correctly
continuity of care
accuracy in fitting and lens recommendations
easier adjustments and aftercare
Your optometrist and dispensing team work together - helping you get the very best outcome from your examination.
What’s Involved in Your Eye Examination
Every Haine & Smith eye test is thorough, unrushed, and tailored to you. Appointments typically last 45 minutes, depending on your needs.
Your examination may include:
A detailed history and symptoms discussion
Understanding your vision, lifestyle and any concerns.
Vision testing
Checking clarity and focus for distance, intermediate and near vision.
Eye health checks
Examining the front and back of the eye using high-quality optical instruments.
Eye pressure measurement
Important for assessing glaucoma risk.
Visual field (peripheral vision) assessment
Where needed, to map areas of vision you may not notice changing.
Digital retinal photography
Captures detailed images of the back of your eye.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
A 3D scan that reveals layers beneath the retina, helping detect early signs of eye disease long before symptoms develop.
If you wear contact lenses
You may also require a contact lens consultation or aftercare appointment, which includes:
corneal health assessment
tear film evaluation
checking lens fit, comfort and vision
discussing new lens types or prescriptions
We combine advanced clinical technology with traditional, attentive care — giving you a complete and confident picture of your eye health.
After Your Eye Test
Your optometrist will:
explain your results clearly
discuss whether your prescription has changed
advise on glasses, contact lenses, or further tests
arrange follow-up appointments if needed
refer you to specialist care when appropriate
If you choose new glasses, our team will help with:
style and colour selection
lens options and coatings
fitting for comfort, clarity and face shape
Where possible, you should be dispensed at the same practice where you are tested
This is recommended by the College of Optometrists, as it ensures:
your results, measurements and clinical notes are used correctly
continuity of care
accuracy in fitting and lens recommendations
easier adjustments and aftercare
Your optometrist and dispensing team work together - helping you get the very best outcome from your examination.
Book Your Eye Test Today
Your vision deserves the best care.