Edinburgh • Since 1931
Eye Examinations
Independent eyecare in Edinburgh's West End since 1931. Thoughtful eye examinations, beautifully curated eyewear and a team who take time to get it right.
Eye examinations in Edinburgh
Eye care that's never rushed
Established in 1931, McGraths has been part of Edinburgh life for generations. Located in the heart of the city, close to the Johnnie Walker building, we welcome patients who value attentive care, considered advice and a calm, comfortable environment for their eye care.
NHS
Your NHS eye examination
In Scotland, all routine eye examinations are covered by the NHS, allowing you to have your eyes checked regularly at no cost while staying on top of your vision and overall eye health.
We offer appointments five days a week, making it easy to fit your visit around your day.
Every examination is carried out by Stephen, our resident optometrist. Combined with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, you can expect a thorough, reassuring experience from start to finish.
ADVANCED DIAGNOSTICS
Enhanced eye examinations
For patients who want a more detailed look at their eye health, we offer enhanced eye examinations using Optomap and OCT technology.
- Optomap captures an ultra-wide digital image of the back of your eye, allowing us to detect concerns earlier.
- OCT provides a cross-sectional scan, giving us a clear view of the deeper layers of the retina.
You can choose one, the other, or both. These scans give us a fuller picture of your eye health and are especially valuable for patients over 50, or for anyone with a family history of eye conditions.
Eyewear
Precision at every step
From the moment you arrive, our friendly team greets you and guides you through each part of your visit. Measurements are taken using Essilor Visioffice to create bespoke lenses tailored to your needs.
Our practice is also one of only six in Scotland to offer the Essilor phoropter AVA VR800 refraction system. This advanced technology allows us to refine your prescription to an exceptionally precise level, giving you clearer, more comfortable vision.
Eyecare
Specialist eyecare services
We provide a range of enhanced services to support our patients’ eye health:
- Dry eye care – personalised treatment to ease discomfort and improve day-to-day comfort.
- Emergency eyecare – we’re here to help if something suddenly changes with your eyes.
- Home visits – available for patients who are unable to come into the practice.
With Ross, our practice manager and lab technician with over 35 years’ experience, and our highly skilled optical assistants Shirley, Mandy and Dianne, you will always be in capable, caring hands.
If you would like more information about any of these services, please contact our friendly team.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
Even if you’ve been to see us before or you’re looking to book your first eye examination, you may have some questions. Here are answers to a few commonly asked questions, but feel free to get in touch if you’d like to know more.
How much will my eye test cost?
Eye tests are free to everyone in Scotland under the NHS
How much will my OCT Scan cost?
An OCT Scan is free of charge
How often should I get my eyes tested?
We recommend an eye test every 2-3 years. Under 18’s, we recommend you get an eye test every 6-12 months.
What happens during an OCT Scan?
You will sit in front of the scanner and rest your head on a support. The equipment will then scan your eye (without touching it) and will take no more than 20 seconds per eye.
Will my eye examination hurt?
You shouldn’t feel any pain throughout your eye examination or OCT scan.
We care about your vision and how your eyewear makes you look
If you’re looking for precise eye care, exceptional eyewear and
a team who take time to understand you, we’d love to welcome you.
a team who take time to understand you, we’d love to welcome you.
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patient stories
Hear it from our happy patients
If you're going to be spending money and time on new glasses, forget the "buy ones get one frees" and other high street store gimmicks. You will guarantee the best care and attention going to McGraths.
Sue
Excellent service and frame selection, staff very helpful when choosing.
David Lyon
I cannot recommend this place highly enough. My wife had arrived in Edinburgh having forgotten her glasses.
The optician who assisted us could not have been any friendlier. She provided my wife with contact lenses and ensured that she was able to see.
Matthew McBride