Best Opticians in Blyth
Four opticians in Blyth -- from a family practice established in 1946 to independents with decades of experience and the town centre Specsavers branch.
Blyth has four opticians within walking distance of the town centre, which is a decent spread for a town of its size. Three are independents with deep local roots; one is the national chain you already know. All offer NHS eye tests alongside private services, and each has something slightly different going for it. Here is what you need to know.
DJ Preston Opticians
DJ Preston Opticians at 6 Bridge Street (NE24 1BL) has been in business since 1946 -- nearly 80 years on the same street. The practice is now run by brothers Mark and Christopher Steven, the fourth generation of a family of optometrists stretching back to their great-grandfather. That kind of continuity is rare in any profession, and it shows in the care they take.
DJ Preston offers full eye examinations, contact lens fitting, and a carefully chosen range of designer and everyday frames. Their standout feature is a 60-day Love Your Glasses Guarantee: if you are not happy with your new frames within 60 days, you can return them for a full refund or exchange. That takes the pressure off choosing.
Phone: 01670 353819
Best for: Blyth's longest-established opticians. Family-run since 1946 with a 60-day glasses guarantee.
Specsavers Blyth
Specsavers Blyth occupies a prominent spot at 5-9 Church Street (NE24 1BA), right in the centre of town. As part of the UK's largest opticians chain, the branch offers the full Specsavers range: NHS and private eye tests, prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, and hearing tests through the integrated audiology centre.
The main advantage of Specsavers is range and price. The store carries a wide selection of frames at every price point, and their regular promotions -- particularly the two-for-one offers -- make them a practical choice if you are watching costs. Online booking is available, though walk-ins are sometimes accommodated.
Phone: 01670 354000
Best for: Wide frame selection, regular promotions, and hearing tests under one roof. Book online or call ahead.
Mark English Optometrist
Mark English Optometrist is at 46 Beaconsfield Street (NE24 2DR), just around the corner from the Phoenix Theatre. Mark has been practising for over 20 years and works closely with local families, many of whom have been coming to the practice for years.
The practice offers thorough eye examinations and diabetic screening, with a selection of both designer and budget frames. NHS sight tests are free for those aged 60 and over, and free frames are available for people receiving certain benefits. This is a practice where you will not feel rushed -- Mark is known for taking the time to get things right.
Phone: 01670 352839
Best for: Over 20 years' experience. Diabetic screening. Free NHS sight tests for over-60s.
Specs Galore
Specs Galore is on Wanley Street (NE24 1DP), a short walk from the Market Place. With over 25 years of experience, the practice has built a strong reputation for friendly, personalised service and competitive pricing. A second branch in Chester-le-Street gives the business some buying power, which translates into a wider range of frames than you might expect from a small independent.
The practice stocks everything from designer labels to affordable everyday frames, and the staff are consistently praised for taking the time to help customers find the right fit. If you want the personal touch of an independent without paying over the odds, Specs Galore is worth a visit.
Phone: 01670 365073
Best for: Independent with 25 years' experience. Wide range of frames at competitive prices.
NHS Eye Tests -- Who Qualifies?
It is worth knowing that NHS-funded eye tests are free for several groups, including children under 16, full-time students aged 16-18, people aged 60 and over, people diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma, and those on certain benefits. If you are unsure whether you qualify, any of the four practices listed above can advise you when you book.
The NHS recommends an eye test every two years, or more frequently if advised by your optometrist. Even if your vision feels fine, regular check-ups can pick up conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration early, when treatment is most effective.
For more health services in Blyth, see our guides to the best dentists in Blyth and best counsellors and therapists in Blyth.
Know an opticians in Blyth we have missed? Get in touch and we will add it to the guide.