Business Details
27 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Award-Winning Opticians in Snodland, Kent
Established in 1999, Buchanan Optometrists has redefined eye care through innovation and expertise. Our practice combines cutting-edge technology, including the Heidelberg Spectralis 4D OCT scanner, with personalized examinations to detect ocular conditions up to eight years earlier than standard tests. Recognised nationally with multiple awards, including Independent Practice of the Year and Technology Practice of the Year, we prioritise precision diagnostics and tailored patient care. Our team, led by renowned optometrist Alisdair Buchanan, offers bespoke spectacles, advanced glaucoma management, and dry eye clinics, serving clients from Snodland, Kent, and globally. With over 650,000 invested in state-of-the-art equipment, we ensure unparalleled accuracy in vision correction and ocular health monitoring. Our commitment to excellence extends to children's eye care, myopia control, and visual stress testing, supported by a 24/7 emergency referral system. Clients consistently praise our compassionate approach, evidenced by testimonials highlighting life-changing interventions, including early tumour detection and paediatric vision restoration. As a family-run practice, we blend technical mastery with traditional values, offering transparent pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all services.
Services
Eye Examinations
Glaucoma Monitoring
Dry Eye Treatment
Myopia Control
Children's Eye Exams
Contact Lens Consultations
Macular Degeneration Monitoring
Visual Stress Testing
Sports Vision
Custom Spectacles
Served areas
- Snodland, Maidstone, West Malling, Kingshill, London, Sevenoaks and the rest of Kent
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Awarded Independent Practice of the Year and Technology Practice of the Year
- Detects eye diseases up to 8 years earlier with 4D OCT scanning
- Personalised examinations with consultant optometrists
- Specialist dry eye clinics and myopia control lenses
- Recognised by Consultant Ophthalmologists for advanced care
Associations and certifications
- College of Optometrists
- Association of Optometrists
- Association of Dispensing Opticians
- GOC
Payment methods
- Cash, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments
What people say
Life-changing treatment
Expert diagnostics
Personalized care
Award-winning service
Highly recommend
Services
Eye Examinations
Our comprehensive eye examinations use cutting-edge technology to detect ocular conditions up to eight years earlier than standard tests. Each appointment lasts 40-90 minutes, focusing on your medical history and individual needs. The Heidelberg Spectralis 4D OCT scanner provides detailed retinal imaging, enabling early diagnosis of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other sight-threatening conditions.
Glaucoma Monitoring
We offer advanced glaucoma screening using 4D GMPE scans, providing more accurate results than standard pressure tests. Our monitoring service includes regular follow-ups and tailored treatment plans for patients with family histories of glaucoma or early-stage diagnoses, ensuring optimal management of this progressive condition.
Dry Eye Treatment
Our specialist dry eye clinics utilise E-eye pulsed light therapy to reduce or eliminate symptoms. We combine advanced diagnostics with personalised treatment plans, including lubricants and environmental adjustments, to address the root causes of dry eye syndrome and improve long-term ocular comfort.
Myopia Control
Designed for children and young adults, our myopia control programme uses specialised lenses to slow nearsightedness progression. By combining precision optics with regular monitoring, we help reduce the risk of high myopia complications while maintaining clear vision during critical developmental years.
Children's Eye Exams
We provide child-friendly eye examinations starting from age three, using engaging techniques to assess visual development. Our services include colour overlay assessments for reading difficulties and custom spectacle fittings, ensuring early detection of vision problems that could affect learning and coordination.
People
Alisdair Buchanan
Optometrist & Practice Owner
Award-winning optometrist with over 25 years' experience, specialising in advanced diagnostics. Voted UK Optometrist of the Year in 2017, he pioneered early detection techniques for ocular diseases and leads our specialist clinics.
Kathryn Buchanan
Optometrist
Experienced optometrist specialising in contact lens fittings and dry eye management. With over 15 years at the practice, she provides expert care for complex prescriptions and conducts regular patient education sessions on ocular health.
Heather
Contact Lens Specialist
Specialist in contact lens fittings with expertise in keratoconus management. She has over 20 years' experience in fitting gas-permeable and custom lenses, helping patients achieve optimal vision correction through innovative solutions.
Gill
Dispensing Optician
Senior dispensing optician with 18 years' experience in spectacle selection and fitting. She specialises in children's eyewear and provides expert advice on lens technology, ensuring perfect frame and lens combinations for individual visual needs.
Questions
What makes Buchanan Optometrists different from high street opticians?
We use advanced diagnostic technology like the Heidelberg Spectralis 4D OCT scanner, detect eye diseases earlier, and offer personalized care with consultant optometrists.
Do you offer emergency eye care services?
Yes, we provide urgent appointments for eye emergencies, including same-day referrals to hospitals when necessary.
Can children receive eye examinations here?
Yes, we specialise in paediatric eye care, including myopia control and visual stress testing for children as young as three.
What specialist services are available?
We offer glaucoma monitoring, dry eye clinics, myopia control lenses, visual stress testing, and custom spectacle fittings.
Videos
Reviews (43)
Jasmine Gannon
Dec 09, 2025
Report
Alisdair and Kathryn have helped me with my dry eye and my sons with their vision so much. Amazing advice, service and treatment. Would recommend in all ways especially if you are suffering with dry eye. Alisdair has helped me so so much with dry eye and mgd and demodex.
Debbie Keen
Jul 24, 2025
Report
The care and support for my mum's eye care was second to none, I would highly recommend Buchanan for their expertise and knowledge.
John Spence
Mar 07, 2024
Report
Paid for next-day delivery on Sunday but still not received order, The contact on the phone was very offhand and dismissive
Susan Dibben
Jan 18, 2024
Report
The entire team at Buchanans is welcoming, supportive, and reassuring. The in-depth scans and tests provide a sense of having undergone a thorough examination of all aspects of eye health. In today's context, these checks offer valuable insights into general health. All results are explained in detail, and guidance regarding any necessary follow-up treatment or eyewear is promptly provided. Most importantly, the care received instills confidence in the entire process.
Hilary Fawkes
Dec 06, 2023
Report
I am confident that I receive top-notch eye care at Buchanan's. There's never any rush when I have questions about a treatment. Alisdair and Kathryn are exceptionally friendly, welcoming, and helpful. The eye examinations are highly comprehensive, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment, and the results are thoroughly explained afterward. I wholeheartedly recommend Buchanan Optometrist.
Vanessa Broomfield
Aug 06, 2023
Report
Hard to endorse a service when I wouldn't use them again. Simply not worth the money given the level of service
Patricia Quieros
Mar 16, 2022
Report
I have glaucoma and due to covid and the pressure on the NHS I was concerned for my eye health as I have not been reviewed recently. With some trepidation I sought the expertise of Buchanan optometrists. I am so glad I did. I had the most intensive set of tests and scans with full explanations of all the findings. An amazing service
Terry Roffey
Feb 11, 2022
Report
Alisdair, thank you for fitting me in for an emergency consultation today. Excellent service. For anyone wondering about the benefits of going private I tried unsuccessfully for hours to make sense of a path to the NHS Eye Clinic. You need a referral and you cannot see a doctor to get one because you have to complete a questionnaire to see if you need to be seen. Absolute bonkers system. Phoning your award winning private practice, I spoke to your colleague and within 2 hours I was in your patient chair. 5 Star Service. Thank you.
Hannah Clifford
Aug 27, 2021
Report
Such an amazing experience and lovely people. Thank you so much for listening to my concerns and helping me
Betty Tuur
Aug 18, 2021
Report
Buchanan opticians were more than helpful. I rang for advice and Mr Buchanan returned my call, advised a fairly immediate visit to A&E. His advice started a chain of swift, efficient eye care. This was was my first contact with this opticians, although brief, impressive.
Georgina Easy Cooks
Aug 01, 2021
Report
I have glaucoma and severe dry eye and been going to Buchanans for a few years now - I cannot recommend them highly enough. They are the nicest people you could ever meet, not only are they experts in what they do, they have up to the minute first class technology - I trust them completely and they have done so much for me. They explain everything clearly you know what is going on, it's a pleasurable visit and you feel totally looked after.
You cannot get better care for your eyes than Buchanans- trust me I'm very fussy - Alisdair and Kathryn are an absolute delight to deal with and so kind, I look forward to my visits - you cannot put a price on good eyesight so do yourself a favour go give them a try - I promise you won't be disappointed.
You cannot get better care for your eyes than Buchanans- trust me I'm very fussy - Alisdair and Kathryn are an absolute delight to deal with and so kind, I look forward to my visits - you cannot put a price on good eyesight so do yourself a favour go give them a try - I promise you won't be disappointed.
Charles
Jul 21, 2021
Report
I had an eye test done elsewhere and couldn't get on with my chosen glasses. Buchanan tested my eyes and discovered that the prescription I had previously been given was totally wrong! They gave me new lenses completely free of charge and I cannot thank them enough - 10/10 service from start to finish.
Keith Stewart
Jun 22, 2021
Report
I really felt I was listened to and communication was a two way street. All staff were extremely patient. In particular: Superb attention to detail in every department: eye testing; extended, 4D screening (only available in a very small number of places in U.K.); spectacle prescription, frame choice and dispensing. Along with this level of attention to detail, precise and understandable information was given at all stages of each process. Excellent value for money. Worth every penny. I can't recommend Buchanan's more highly. They have totally restored my faith in opticians/optometrists.
Barbara Cousins
Apr 13, 2021
Report
I would just like to say a huge thank you for the service my parents received at your practice today. Your staff were, as usual, polite and professional. Although it had taken me a while to persuade them to visit you, due to the current restrictions, they were more than impressed and are looking forward to getting their new glasses. Five Star Service.
Nigel Feakes
Mar 24, 2021
Report
My dad has Macular Degeneration and wanted to try the e-scoop solution. After a visit to Snodland late 2020 he was given an eye test and sent on his way, Nothing was then heard from them. I phoned in March to inquire on my dads behalf and was told they didn't know why this had happened but they would get the optician to phone later that day! No call
Mrs Waddell
Mar 04, 2021
Report
I contacted Alisdair for advice about my daughter who had difficulties reading due to visual stress.I had visited other opticians but found getting information and finding solutions difficult. Alisdair was amazing, he was clearly interested in helping us and had knowledge and expertise to offer, before I had even made an appointment, he was willing to talk to me in detail about the condition, previous tests results she had, his preferred testing process and the colour lenses available that will help her. This is life changing for her. I am deeply appreciative.
Donna Stewart
Feb 01, 2021
Report
I have no hesitation recommending Buchanan for their professional service, as I was in need of an emergency appointment. I also received excellent follow up care.
Graham Bibby
Jan 24, 2021
Report
Thank you to the whole team at Buchanan Optometrists. I have been really impressed with their dedication to detail and sensitivity to a very nervous patient.
Elizabeth
Aug 26, 2020
Report
I took my daughter here for a second opinion. Thank goodness I did as she needed brain surgery after my original opticians failed to refer her to the hospital. The level of professionalism and care I received from Alisdair has been outstanding. We were made to feel very welcome, things were explained in a calm fashion and I am so grateful for saving my daughter's life. Alisdair called me after returning home from Kings College Hospital to see how my daughter was doing. I cannot recommend Buchanan Optometrists enough.
Nicola Richards
Feb 01, 2020
Report
Alisdair and his expert team provide an excellent, in-depth service with friendly, professional advice-and great coffee ! They are at the forefront of outstanding eye care.
Sheila
Nov 06, 2019
Report
Broke a lens after a fall and the practice was extremely helpful and friendly, as usual. They replaced the lens within a week, great service.
Fiona Cunnane
Oct 28, 2018
Report
Having read other reviews of Buchanan Optometrists, I arrived there with pretty high expectations and I am pleased to be able to confirm that my expectations were not only met but exceeded. Having been very short-sighted and a contact lens wearer for many many years I have visited quite a range of opticians over the past five decades and this has to be the best one yet. The level of care they provide for your eyes is very impressive and when you couple this with a warm, friendly team there is no reason to go anywhere else for your eye care.
Claire
Jun 15, 2018
Report
I have been using Buchanans for a few years, and having just had my check up wanted to write a review. They are friendly, the service is excellent, but the time they spent to explain to me what they were testing, how it worked, and go through the results with me was so incredibly reassuring, they are brilliant. I have a dodgy family history of eye conditions, and I feel that Buchanans help me do all I can to be aware of my eye health and how to keep it positive.
Fiona
Jun 06, 2018
Report
Having read other reviews of Buchanan Optometrists, I arrived there with pretty high expectations and I am pleased to be able to confirm that my expectations were not only met but exceeded. Having been very short-sighted and a contact lens wearer for many many years I have visited quite a range of opticians over the past five decades and this has to be the best one yet. The level of care they provide for your eyes is very impressive and when you couple this with a warm, friendly team there is no reason to go anywhere else for your eye care.
Mrs S Murfin
Jun 02, 2018
Report
My 15 year old daughter was referred to Buchanan by her school Longfield Academy who had concerns about possible dyslexia. We were concerned as parents but had always ensured her eyes were tested every year by Boots opticians! Well, she has a severe astigmatism in both eyes and the optician we saw at Buchanan could not believe it had not been picked up earlier. The service we received was excellent and our daughter was so happy that she could see clearly when we picked her glasses up 8 months ago.
Everything about this opticians is first class, the testing, the knowledge, the fitting and follow up. We have all been back today for check ups and have ordered a further 3 pairs of glasses between us following our first visit. I can not thank the staff at Buchanan enough for listening to our daughter and helping her, she is now thriving at school and at home and her grades are continuing to improve.
Everything about this opticians is first class, the testing, the knowledge, the fitting and follow up. We have all been back today for check ups and have ordered a further 3 pairs of glasses between us following our first visit. I can not thank the staff at Buchanan enough for listening to our daughter and helping her, she is now thriving at school and at home and her grades are continuing to improve.
Julia Jenner
May 20, 2018
Report
I visited Buchanans after having experienced very poor service at a high-end chain opticians. From the moment I walked in the door, I knew this was going to be a very different experience. Everything is very well organised, the staff are very well trained, and totally focused on me as a customer. Everyone in the practice is knowledgeable and everything was explained clearly from the eye examinations to the selecting of frames.
The optometrist carried out the eye examinations very professionally. There are additional examinations which provide in-depth scans of the eyes which I opted to pay for - something which I had not been offered in other opticians. The wide selection of frames by high-end manufacturers, are dispensed by trained personnel who take a real interest in making certain that you are entirely satisfied. I have a pair of varifocals and a pair of sunglasses that I am extremely happy with.
The optometrist carried out the eye examinations very professionally. There are additional examinations which provide in-depth scans of the eyes which I opted to pay for - something which I had not been offered in other opticians. The wide selection of frames by high-end manufacturers, are dispensed by trained personnel who take a real interest in making certain that you are entirely satisfied. I have a pair of varifocals and a pair of sunglasses that I am extremely happy with.
Howard Sykes
May 11, 2018
Report
Had my new glasses for a couple of weeks now; excellent. From eye tests to receiving them, everything was outstanding. Friendly, helpful professional service from the eye tests to selecting frames from the huge selection in the shop; with advice every step of the way. Never any pressure, and at the end glasses that are truly excellent. Not cheap, but then quality never is. I would recommend anyone who needs new glasses to visit Buchanan Optometrists.
Eghosa
Feb 19, 2018
Report
I travelled all the way from London to Kent and I can say that I am a very satisfied customer. I got value for what I paid, staff are well polite and compassionate and professional optician. Even though its a couple of quid difference from other high street opticians, but I guarantee you wont be disappointed at all. I strongly recommend.
Thanks. One happy customer.
Thanks. One happy customer.
Stephen Green
Jan 15, 2018
Report
I have been a customer since 2003, and have found Alisdair and all staff to be consistently helpful, making extra effort to explain and advise the best options for me. The quality and choice of lenses and frames stocked are Premium with costs slightly higher than other brands. However - the long term costs are actually lower, as they get is right first time, and they have lasted much longer, than when I had used alternative suppliers.
I have recommended many people to Buchanan, and all have noticed the difference in the facilities, modern equipment and the detailed eye tests that they received. You will see the difference, if you use Buchanan Optometrists
I have recommended many people to Buchanan, and all have noticed the difference in the facilities, modern equipment and the detailed eye tests that they received. You will see the difference, if you use Buchanan Optometrists
Derek Carpenter
Jan 15, 2018
Report
You are always made welcome at Buchanan Optometrists, you are treated as a human being not just a number and nothing is too much trouble for the staff, you even get offered a cup of tea or coffee.
Nigel L. Davies
Jan 15, 2018
Report
A client since 2004, I have always been more than happy with the exceptional personal care that I've received from Alisdair and his team. High standards, cutting-edge technology, meticulous attention to detail and great aftercare are the norm. The ambiance is relaxed, the team always very friendly, helpful and patient. I always recommend Buchanan Optometrists to friends, family, and colleagues, and they too have been extremely happy with the great service provided. Can't recommend highly enough.
Zuhair Matti
Jan 14, 2018
Report
I have been with buchanan optometrists for many years. The service is excellent with thorough eye examination & very professional, knowledgeable and welcoming staff. Highly recommend.
Heather
Jan 13, 2018
Report
I went firstly to Buchanans suffering with "dry eye". I then had to have an eye lasered at the local hospital after having a cataract done 2 years before, had my eyes tested again .. new glasses and it was great, I could see !! Everyone there is so nice, helpful and welcoming.
Nigel Davies
Nov 17, 2017
Report
A client since 2004, I have always been more than happy with the exceptional personal care that I've received from Alisdair and his team. High standards, cutting-edge technology, meticulous attention to detail and great aftercare are the norm. The ambience is relaxed, the team always very friendly, helpful and patient. I always recommend Buchanan Optometrists to friends, family, and colleagues, and they too have been extremely happy with the great service provided. Can't recommend highly enough.
Annette Barnes
Aug 24, 2017
Report
We received fantastic service. The staff were extremely welcoming and make you feel very relaxed. The tests are very thorough and pick up problems early on. They are extremely good with my autistic son, even when they spotted a problem, they explained things well and my son remained calm throughout and was happy to let them carry out additional tests. In particular they made sure he understood everything they were doing and why. We wouldn't go anywhere else.
Lesley
Jul 21, 2017
Report
I have been going to Buchanan Optometrists for the last couple of years, initially to get help with dry eyes (now much improved), also for a sight test and most recently, to collect my new prescription sunglasses which I am delighted with. The dispensing optician was so patient and helpful during the process and really helped me find the right solution to suit my high prescription. Many thanks to all the staff at Buchanans - you provide a really great service!
Joanne Hickling
Apr 23, 2017
Report
I have been coming to Buchanan's a few years now. The staff are very friendly, helpful and patient. I feel that my glasses are a much more accurate prescription than I have had elsewhere, and they are also very good at helping me choose a pair of glasses that will look good.
Jane Sutherland
Apr 16, 2017
Report
Fantastic - True customer service! I am so glad I found Buchanan's - I brought my daughter here, she had been having problems at school. They were so welcoming and professional - and great coffee! Following her eye test, they explained to me that she needed glasses but also would benefit from a test for dyslexia. We ended up with specially tinted glasses which have helped her reading ability amazingly.
She is now outperforming all her friends at school! Needless to say my husband and I are now converts too and have some beautiful new glasses. I have been so impressed with their professionalism and quality. I was amazed at the amount of advanced equipment they have - I even got to look at the back of my eyes in 3D - all I can say is you have got to go to Buchanan's!
She is now outperforming all her friends at school! Needless to say my husband and I are now converts too and have some beautiful new glasses. I have been so impressed with their professionalism and quality. I was amazed at the amount of advanced equipment they have - I even got to look at the back of my eyes in 3D - all I can say is you have got to go to Buchanan's!
Mrs C. Gash
Mar 20, 2017
Report
I first visited Buchanans 8 years ago and had excellent service, but as always the customer knows best so a couple of years ago I decided to try a well known high street brand to save some money. I'm now back with Buchanans and should never have changed, yes they may be more expensive but the quality of service and customer care is second to none, I will not be changing again.
Gillian Hollingsbee
Feb 07, 2017
Report
This is only the second time I have been to Buchanan's. As before excellent service. Although I was very early for my appointment Katherine made me feel very welcome offering Tea or Coffee while I wait. I wanted time to look at the enormous selection of frames which I could do in my own time with no sales pressure. During the eye test I felt very relaxed and was made to feel totally at ease with the odd bit of banter.
Now for the good bit, choosing the frames and lens type. This was no contest as last time I had chosen the best of the best with their help. Must admit went to "specsavers" last year and literally threw them back, not worth the effort. If you want glasses then go to the best, I did!
Now for the good bit, choosing the frames and lens type. This was no contest as last time I had chosen the best of the best with their help. Must admit went to "specsavers" last year and literally threw them back, not worth the effort. If you want glasses then go to the best, I did!
Jane Sutherland
Feb 03, 2017
Report
Fantastic - True customer service! I am so glad I found Buchanan's - I brought my daughter here, she had been having problems at school. They were so welcoming and professional - and great coffee! Following her eye test, they explained to me that she needed glasses but also would benefit from a test for dyslexia. We ended up with specially tinted glasses which have helped her reading ability amazingly.
She is now outperforming all her friends at school! Needless to say my husband and I are now converts too and have some beautiful new glasses. I have been so impressed with their professionalism and quality. I was amazed at the amount of advanced equipment they have - I even got to look at the back of my eyes in 3D - all I can say is you have got to go to Buchanan's!
She is now outperforming all her friends at school! Needless to say my husband and I are now converts too and have some beautiful new glasses. I have been so impressed with their professionalism and quality. I was amazed at the amount of advanced equipment they have - I even got to look at the back of my eyes in 3D - all I can say is you have got to go to Buchanan's!
Kerry Louise Clayton
We received fantastic service from Buchanans right from the first email to my sons appointment today, thoroughly recommend
Anne Davison
I have been with Buchanans for many years, ever since Alistair established the business in Snodland. I wouldn't entertain going anywhere else. The professionalism of all the staff, and quality of treatment has always been first rate. And, their ongoing care, expertise, plus cutting-edge screening equipment picked up glaucoma early enough to effectively save my eyesight. You can't put a price on that. And the coffee is pretty good too !