Business Details
Emergency
services
Expert Eye & Hearing Care in Hampshire & Surrey
Established in 1895, we are a family-run business with a rich heritage in providing expert eye and hearing care across Hampshire and Surrey. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our use of cutting-edge technology, including OCT scanning for comprehensive eye examinations, and our team of highly trained professionals who prioritise patient well-being. As an Investors in People Gold Award holder, we invest in continuous clinical education to ensure our staff remain at the forefront of optical and audiological advancements.Our independent status allows us to offer a diverse range of products from global manufacturers, balancing style, reliability, and value. We adhere strictly to the General Optical Councils guidelines and provide NHS services for children and the elderly, alongside competitive pricing guarantees. Our dedication to community care is evident through our charitable support and sustainable practices, ensuring we meet both local and global responsibilities.
Services
Eye Examinations
Contact Lenses
Hearing Tests
Wax Removal
Children's Eye Care
Myopia Management
Hearing Aids
Spectacle Fittings
OCT Scanning
Audiology Services
Highlights and features
- Over 130 years of expertise in optical and audiological care
- Access to the latest OCT scanning and digital hearing technology
- Personalised service with a wide range of globally sourced products
- Investors in People Gold Award for staff development and training
- Price-matching guarantee on identical spectacles within 5 miles
Associations and certifications
- General Optical Council
- Investors in People
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA)
What people say
Outstanding opticians
Genuinely lovely staff
Excellent helpful staff
Fantastic customer service
Highly experienced team
Services
Eye Examinations
Our comprehensive eye exams use OCT scanning to assess eye health and vision needs. Qualified optometrists provide detailed analysis, including retinal imaging, to detect conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Patients receive clear explanations of results and tailored recommendations for corrective lenses or further care.
Hearing Tests
Free hearing evaluations conducted by HCPC-registered audiologists identify hearing loss causes and severity. Advanced diagnostic tools ensure accurate assessments, with options for immediate wax removal or hearing aid trials. Results are discussed in detail, including lifestyle-focused solutions.
Contact Lenses
We offer soft, rigid gas permeable, and Ortho-K lenses for all prescriptions. Expert fittings ensure comfort and clarity, with trial periods available. Our Johnson & Johnson and CooperVision partnerships provide access to innovative materials, including daily disposables and astigmatism-correcting designs.
Hearing Aids
Premium hearing aids from Widex, Phonak, and Signia feature Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable options. Custom fittings include annual adjustments and five-year warranties. Our independent status ensures unbiased recommendations tailored to individual hearing profiles and budgets.
Children's Eye Care
Specialised examinations for children from age five, including myopia management and Ortho-K lenses. Early detection of visual development issues is prioritised, with child-friendly consultations and disposable lenses for active lifestyles.
People
Richard Rawling
Managing Director
Leading the family business at Purley branch, Richard oversees operations while maintaining the legacy of excellence established in 1895. He champions innovation in optical technology and staff development.
Simon Callaghan
Optometrist
Recognised for expertise in retinal conditions, Simon provides thorough eye exams with OCT technology. His empathetic approach ensures patients understand complex diagnoses and treatment pathways.
Questions
What areas do Rawlings serve?
We operate 12 branches across Hampshire and Surrey, including Alresford, Alton, Croydon, and Winchester.
Do you offer emergency eye care?
Yes, we provide urgent appointments for acute vision issues outside regular schedules.
Are hearing tests free?
Yes, comprehensive adult hearing assessments are offered at no charge.
Can children receive eye exams?
We conduct paediatric examinations from age five, including myopia management solutions.
Do you price-match spectacles?
We guarantee to refund the difference if identical glasses are found cheaper locally within a month.
Is financing available for hearing aids?
Interest-free payment plans are available for audiology products through Novuna.
Reviews (4)
Jenny Hodgson
Jun 13, 2022
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The optician is very friendly and always takes time to explain everything he is viewing and all your options. So far I have been twice and both times I have been very happy with the service and the prescription. The team are also great when making appointments to find a time that suits you and sending reminders before the appointment. JH 20/05/22
Paul Chambers
Jun 09, 2022
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I have been going to Rawlings in Purley for over 45 years and have received consistently high standards of care and service throughout that time. The staff have always been fantastic, automatically going the extra mile in terms of providing a personal service. I wouldn't trust anyone else to prescribe my contact lenses and am confident that with their advanced technology and regular testing my eyecare is in safe hands. Last Visit 30.05.22
Bodicea Hampe
May 09, 2022
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Had what I thought was an emergency so called Moorfields. I've been under their care for several years but they said that I would have to go to another optician and I chose Rawlings in Purley. I can truthfully say that they were excellent. The examination which was performed by Mr. Simon Callaghan was very detailed and to my delight, the condition that I have was not escalating but instead I needed a stronger prescription. Thanks so much to Rawlings and all it's staff for taking a weight off my mind.
Meredith Hooper
May 07, 2022
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I went to Rawlings to ask for help regarding my eye, having been unable to obtain an appointment with a GP, no success with NHS 111 and to be honest very little expectation of being successful but I couldn't have been more wrong. The lady who I first spoke to was incredibly helpful, took full details and promised to call if they were able to see me as an emergency which they did. I received a full examination, carried out with care, everything explained to me in terms I understood, a referral made to the hospital Eye clinic whilst I was there and I have an appointment there tomorrow. The professionalism of the staff coupled with the compassion, understanding and kindness has been outstanding and I cannot thank them enough.
