Optical Express
About Optical Express
Optical Express is a major UK optical and laser eye surgery provider, offering both traditional optician services and specialist refractive surgery. With clinics across the UK and Ireland, they are one of the country's largest providers of laser eye surgery and lens replacement procedures, while also offering standard high-street optical services including eye tests, glasses, and contact lenses.
Optical Express was founded in 1991 in Glasgow, Scotland, initially as a traditional high-street opticians chain. The company grew quickly during the 1990s, opening stores across Scotland and then expanding into England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. What distinguished Optical Express from many competitors was its early recognition of the commercial potential of laser eye surgery, which was emerging as a viable alternative to glasses and contact lenses during the same period. By the mid-1990s, Optical Express had begun investing in laser and refractive surgery services, positioning itself as both a conventional optician and a specialist surgical provider.
The laser eye surgery division of the business grew rapidly through the 2000s, and Optical Express became one of the UK's largest providers of LASIK, LASEK, and other refractive procedures. The company invested heavily in the latest laser technology and recruited experienced ophthalmic surgeons, building a network of dedicated surgical clinics alongside its standard opticians stores. This dual model — combining everyday optical services with specialist surgery — was unusual in the UK market and gave Optical Express a distinctive niche. The company also expanded into lens replacement surgery, offering implantable contact lenses and refractive lens exchange for patients who were not suitable candidates for laser treatment.
Today, Optical Express operates approximately 100 clinics and stores across the United Kingdom and Ireland. The business is privately owned by its founder, David Moulsdale, and employs around 2,000 people. While the laser eye surgery division generates significant revenue and attention, Optical Express continues to operate standard optician services — including NHS eye tests, glasses dispensing, and contact lens fitting — at many of its locations. The company's clinics are typically located in city centres and major towns, and it has invested in advanced diagnostic equipment including OCT scanning, corneal topography, and wavefront aberrometry across its network.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1991
- UK Stores
- 100
- Price Range
- Free NHS / From £25 private
- NHS Eye Tests
- Yes
- Services Offered
- 6
- Locations Listed
- 49
- Avg. Eye Test
- 25 minutes
Book an eye test
Optical Express Eye Test Locations Across the UK
Find your nearest Optical Express and book an eye test. We list Optical Express locations in 12 regions across the United Kingdom.
London
South East
South West
East of England
West Midlands
East Midlands
North West
North East
Yorkshire and the Humber
Scotland
Northern Ireland
Optical ExpressServices & Pricing
A full breakdown of eye care services available at Optical Express, including prices, duration, and NHS coverage information.
| Service | Description | Price | Duration | NHS Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NHS Eye Test | A standard NHS-funded eye examination for eligible patients. Optical Express optometrists carry out a full assessment of visual acuity, refraction, and eye health using modern diagnostic equipment. In Scotland, all residents receive free NHS eye tests. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, standard NHS eligibility criteria apply. | Free (if eligible) | 20-25 minutes | |
| Private Eye Test | A comprehensive eye examination for patients not eligible for NHS funding. The test includes detailed refraction, binocular vision assessment, and a thorough examination of the internal and external health of the eyes. Optical Express uses advanced clinical equipment and digital imaging across its clinics. | From £25 | 25 minutes | |
| Advanced Eye Examination with OCT | An enhanced eye examination that includes OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanning and digital retinal photography. This combination of technologies provides a comprehensive picture of the health of the retina, optic nerve, and macular area, enabling early detection of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. | From £40 | 30-35 minutes | |
| Laser Eye Surgery Consultation | A comprehensive initial consultation for patients considering laser eye surgery. The appointment includes a detailed eye examination, corneal topography mapping, wavefront aberrometry, pupil size measurement, and a tear film assessment. An ophthalmic surgeon will review the results and discuss whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK, LASEK, or another refractive procedure. | Free (no obligation) | 60-90 minutes | |
| Contact Lens Fitting | A specialist consultation for patients wanting to start wearing contact lenses or explore different options. Includes corneal topography, tear film analysis, and a trial fitting with appropriate lenses. Optical Express offers a range of lens types from leading manufacturers, and monthly supply plans are available. | From £30 | 30-40 minutes | |
| Children's Eye Test | An age-appropriate eye examination for children, checking for common childhood vision issues including lazy eye, squint, and refractive errors. All children under 16 qualify for a free NHS-funded eye test. Optical Express offers a selection of children's frames suitable for younger patients. | Free (NHS funded) | 20-25 minutes |
NHS Eye Test
NHSA standard NHS-funded eye examination for eligible patients. Optical Express optometrists carry out a full assessment of visual acuity, refraction, and eye health using modern diagnostic equipment. In Scotland, all residents receive free NHS eye tests. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, standard NHS eligibility criteria apply.
Private Eye Test
A comprehensive eye examination for patients not eligible for NHS funding. The test includes detailed refraction, binocular vision assessment, and a thorough examination of the internal and external health of the eyes. Optical Express uses advanced clinical equipment and digital imaging across its clinics.
Advanced Eye Examination with OCT
An enhanced eye examination that includes OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanning and digital retinal photography. This combination of technologies provides a comprehensive picture of the health of the retina, optic nerve, and macular area, enabling early detection of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
Laser Eye Surgery Consultation
A comprehensive initial consultation for patients considering laser eye surgery. The appointment includes a detailed eye examination, corneal topography mapping, wavefront aberrometry, pupil size measurement, and a tear film assessment. An ophthalmic surgeon will review the results and discuss whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK, LASEK, or another refractive procedure.
Contact Lens Fitting
A specialist consultation for patients wanting to start wearing contact lenses or explore different options. Includes corneal topography, tear film analysis, and a trial fitting with appropriate lenses. Optical Express offers a range of lens types from leading manufacturers, and monthly supply plans are available.
Children's Eye Test
NHSAn age-appropriate eye examination for children, checking for common childhood vision issues including lazy eye, squint, and refractive errors. All children under 16 qualify for a free NHS-funded eye test. Optical Express offers a selection of children's frames suitable for younger patients.
Optical ExpressPros & Cons
An honest look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Optical Express for your eye care.
Advantages
- One of the UK's largest and most experienced providers of laser eye surgery
- Combines standard optician services with specialist surgical clinics under one brand
- Advanced diagnostic technology including OCT, corneal topography, and wavefront aberrometry
- Free, no-obligation laser eye surgery consultations to assess your suitability
- Nationwide presence in major UK cities with modern, well-equipped clinics
Considerations
- Not currently available for booking through eyetest.co.uk
- The brand's strong association with laser surgery can overshadow its standard optician services
- No hearing care services offered
How to Book an Eye Test at Optical Express
Follow these simple steps to book your next eye test with Optical Express.
Search for your nearest Optical Express clinic by entering your postcode on eyetest.co.uk
Compare available services — from standard eye tests to laser eye surgery consultations
Select your preferred appointment type and choose a date and time
Enter your personal details and any relevant medical or prescription information
Receive a confirmation email with your appointment details, clinic location, and what to expect
Attend your appointment — for laser surgery consultations, allow up to 90 minutes for the comprehensive assessment
Why Choose Optical Express?
One of the UK's largest providers of laser eye surgery
Combines high-street optician services with specialist surgical clinics
Advanced diagnostic technology across all clinics
Nationwide network of clinics in major cities and towns
NHS Eye Tests at Optical Express
Optical Expressoffers free NHS-funded eye tests for eligible patients. You may qualify if you're under 16, over 60, on certain benefits, or have specific medical conditions. Check eligibility and book through eyetest.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Optical Express
Common questions about eye tests, services, and booking at Optical Express.
Is Optical Express only for laser eye surgery?
No, Optical Express offers a full range of standard optician services alongside its laser eye surgery business. You can get NHS and private eye tests, buy glasses and sunglasses, and have contact lenses fitted at many of their locations. However, their reputation and marketing are heavily focused on refractive surgery, so many people are unaware that they also function as a conventional high-street optician.
How much does laser eye surgery cost at Optical Express?
Laser eye surgery prices at Optical Express vary depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of your prescription. Prices typically start from around £595 per eye for standard LASEK and from £1,195 per eye for bladeless LASIK. More advanced procedures using wavefront-guided technology cost more. Optical Express offers free initial consultations and interest-free finance options to help spread the cost.
Is laser eye surgery safe?
Laser eye surgery is one of the most commonly performed elective procedures in the world and has a high safety record. The vast majority of patients achieve excellent results, with many reaching 20/20 vision or better. However, like any surgical procedure, there are risks, including dry eyes, halos around lights, and, rarely, undercorrection or overcorrection. Optical Express will carry out a thorough assessment to determine whether you are a suitable candidate and will explain all potential risks before you decide to proceed.
Can I get a free eye test at Optical Express?
Yes, Optical Express provides free NHS-funded eye tests for all eligible patients. In Scotland, all residents qualify for free NHS eye tests regardless of age or income. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, eligibility includes children under 16, adults over 60, those on qualifying benefits, and people with specific medical conditions. Laser eye surgery consultations are also free and carry no obligation.
Where are Optical Express clinics located?
Optical Express operates approximately 100 clinics across the United Kingdom and Ireland, located in major cities and towns including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Cardiff, Belfast, and many more. Their clinics are typically in city centre locations for easy access.
Can I book an Optical Express appointment through eyetest.co.uk?
Optical Express is not currently available for direct booking through eyetest.co.uk. We list Optical Express on our platform so that customers can compare their services and prices with other opticians. To book an eye test or laser surgery consultation, visit opticalexpress.co.uk or call their booking line directly. We hope to offer Optical Express booking through our platform in the future.
Does Optical Express offer finance for laser eye surgery?
Yes, Optical Express offers a range of finance options for laser eye surgery, including interest-free credit for qualifying patients. Monthly payment plans allow you to spread the cost of treatment over 12 to 60 months. Finance is subject to credit approval, and full details are discussed during the initial consultation.
What is the difference between LASIK and LASEK at Optical Express?
LASIK and LASEK are both types of laser eye surgery, but they differ in how the laser accesses the cornea. LASIK involves creating a thin flap in the corneal surface before reshaping the underlying tissue with a laser — recovery is typically faster, with most patients seeing well within 24 hours. LASEK does not involve a flap; instead, the surface layer of the cornea is gently moved aside, and the laser reshapes the surface directly. LASEK recovery takes a few days longer, but it may be more suitable for patients with thinner corneas. Your Optical Express surgeon will recommend the best option based on your individual assessment.
Optical Express— Coming Soon
We're working on adding Optical Expressto eyetest.co.uk. Once available, you'll be able to compare prices and book appointments at their 100 UK locations directly through our platform.
Browse Available OpticiansVisit Optical Express directly: www.opticalexpress.co.uk