Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care

The Ultimate Eye Examination is Leightons' most comprehensive eye health assessment. It goes well beyond a standard sight test, incorporating OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanning, wide-field digital retinal photography, visual field testing, and an extended consultation with your optometrist. The examination typically lasts between 45 minutes and an hour and is designed to detect eye conditions at the earliest possible stage. It is particularly recommended for patients with a family history of eye disease, those over 40, and anyone wanting the most thorough possible check of their eye health.

Yes, Leightons is one of the leading providers of myopia management for children in the UK. Their programme uses evidence-based treatments to slow the progression of short-sightedness, including MiSight daily contact lenses, Miyosmart spectacle lenses, and orthokeratology (overnight corneal reshaping lenses). The service begins with a detailed assessment of the child's myopia and risk factors, followed by a tailored treatment plan with regular monitoring appointments to track progress.

Leightons operates approximately 35 branches across southern England, concentrated in the Home Counties and along the south coast. You will find Leightons practices in areas including London, Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Sussex, Kent, and Buckinghamshire. They do not currently have branches in the Midlands, the North of England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.

Leightons is positioned at the premium end of the market, and their prices are generally higher than mainstream chains like Specsavers, Boots, or ASDA. However, the higher cost reflects longer appointment times, more advanced diagnostic technology, and a greater depth of clinical assessment. Many patients who have switched to Leightons report that the difference in the thoroughness and quality of the examination justifies the additional cost. NHS eye tests are available free to eligible patients, just as at any other optician.

Yes, many Leightons branches provide a full audiology service alongside their optical care. They work with leading hearing aid manufacturers including Phonak, Oticon, Widex, and Signia, offering a range of devices from discreet in-ear models to powerful behind-the-ear aids. Hearing assessments are free, and audiologists will explain all available options, including the differences between NHS-funded and private hearing aids.

Yes, Leightons provides free NHS-funded eye tests for all eligible patients. This includes children under 16, adults over 60, people receiving certain means-tested benefits, and patients with specific medical conditions such as diabetes or glaucoma. If you also want the enhanced tests included in the Ultimate Eye Examination — such as OCT scanning and visual fields — these are available at an additional cost.

You can search for your nearest Leightons branch by entering your postcode on eyetest.co.uk. The results will show you available appointment types, prices, and time slots. Select the service you want, pick a convenient date and time, enter your details, and confirm the booking. You will receive an email confirmation with all the information you need for your visit.

Leightons carries a curated selection of premium and independent frame brands that you are unlikely to find at the larger chain opticians. Their collections typically include brands such as Tom Ford, Lindberg, Mykita, Etnia Barcelona, and Face a Face, alongside more widely available names like Ray-Ban and Oliver Peoples. Each branch has its own carefully chosen selection, so the range may vary between locations.