Free Eye Test Newcastle - NHS Eye Exams Available

You might be entitled to a free eye test and not even know it. At Northern Optical Company in Newcastle, we provide thorough NHS eye examinations at no cost to qualifying patients – with the same care and attention we give to everyone who comes through our door, whether they’re paying privately or not.

We’re open Monday to Saturday, 9am-5pm, at 1-4 Grainger Market in Newcastle city centre. If getting to us is difficult, we also offer home visits at no extra charge.

Do You Qualify for a Free Eye Test?

More people are eligible than you might think. If you’re not sure whether you qualify, just give us a call on 0191 232 7284 – we’re happy to check before you book. You’re entitled to a free NHS eye test if you are:

• Under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education
• Aged 60 or over
• Diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
• At risk of glaucoma – for example, if a close blood relative has the condition
• Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, or other qualifying means-tested benefits
• Registered as partially sighted or blind
• A prisoner on day release

Want a More Detailed Check? Upgrade for Just £20

For £20 on top of your free NHS test, we can include 3D HD OCT retinal imaging – a scan that lets us look beneath the surface of the retina and pick up signs of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy far earlier than a standard examination alone. Most of our patients who try it are glad they did.

Not eligible for a free NHS test? A standard private eye test is £35 – or £55 with our enhanced 3D OCT imaging – and we’ll always tell you up front.

Why Come to Us Rather Than a Chain?

The honest answer: we take longer with you. At most chain opticians, appointments are squeezed into tight slots. Here, we give you enough time to ask questions, talk through your results, and leave feeling like you actually understand what’s going on with your eyes.

And if you can’t get to us – whether that’s because of mobility issues, a health condition, or anything else – we’ll come to you. Our home visit service covers Newcastle and the surrounding areas, free of charge.

A Few Things People Often Ask

How long will a free eye test take?
Usually around 20 to 30 minutes, though we won’t rush if we need more time. If you go for the enhanced test with OCT scanning, it’s worth allowing up to 45 minutes.

Can I get free glasses too?
If your test results in a prescription, you may well be entitled to an NHS optical voucher towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. Our team will talk you through exactly what you’re entitled to at your appointment – no surprises.

Do you really offer free home eye tests?
Yes, genuinely. If you can’t get to our Grainger Market practice – for whatever reason – call us on 0191 232 7284 and we’ll arrange a home visit at no extra cost.

Ready to Book?

Eye problems rarely announce themselves – which is why regular testing matters. Book your free eye test today and let us keep an eye on things for you.