locations

Southwold

Friendly, independent eyecare in the heart of

Southwold

About

Southwold

Observatory the Opticians

Southwold opticians in Suffolk.

We hope to offer audiology and hearing care at Southwold opticians again soon. In the meantime, you can still book a free hearing assessment at our practice in Beccles.

We were thrilled to be named best Independent optician in the UK at the prestigious Optician Awards in 2016. Our practice in Beccles won the same award in 2014, making us the only optician in the UK to win this award twice!

In addition:

  • We were a finalist at the EADT Business Awards for Customer Care;
  • We won the EADT Business Award for our Community Involvement.

Southwold Observatory the Opticians is a locally owned and independent optician. Being independent means that we are not tied to any specific brands. We visit optical trade shows and stock the brands that we love and that we hope you will also love. If you are looking for a friendly and professional independent optician in Southwold, we would be happy to help you.

Meet The Team

Meet the Team at

Southwold

Observatory the Opticians

René

Senior Optometrist & Director
BOptom, MCOptom, Prof Cert Glauc

René joined the practice in 2007, having previously been in optics for 20 years. Rene understands the value of putting his patients at ease throughout the examination, whilst carrying out a comprehensive eye examination to the highest standards. René has a special interest and certification in glaucoma.

Jacqui

Practice Manager & Optical Dispenser

Jacqui joined the team in 2007, bringing her own style to the practice. Jacqui has a real passion for customer service and actively seeks to make every visit to the practice special for each customer. She also has a passion for colour, so there is always a bold selection of frames alongside the more traditional ones.

Molly

Optical Dispenser

Molly joined us in 2017, having had 3 years' previous experience. Molly's experience and enthusiasm for spectacles and contact lenses ensures a great result for every patient.

Michelle

Optical Receptionist

Michelle has worked in optics since 2010. She has a friendly approach to customer service and is always happy to help.

Naomi

Optometrist
BSc MCOptom

Naomi joined us in 2024. Naomi knows the importance of taking time to listen to her patients’ concerns in a calm, friendly and professional manner. She is accredited to see cataract post-operative patients. She is also accredited to fit and manage the aftercare of MiSight contact lenses for myopia management.

Marcus

Optical Dispenser

Having worked in optics for three years, Marcus is keen to pursue his career further within our practice. Marcus is kind natured and will always strive to help and support all those that he encounters both inside and out of the practice.

Jacqui H

Dispensing Optician
FBDO

Jacqui recently joined Observatory. She has been working for more than 30 years in independent optical practices. She is still just as passionate about helping people enjoy their experience of wearing glasses as she was when she started.

Sarah

Optical Dispenser

After several years away from the industry, Sarah is delighted to return to the world of optics. With a solid background as an optical dispensing assistant she brings a wealth of experience in patient care, frame styling and supporting the clinical team. Having spent the past 6 years developing new skills in customer service and retail management, Sarah combines strong communication and attention to detail with a genuine passion for helping patients see and look their best. She is excited to be back in practice and contributing once again to exceptional optical care.

Faith

Optical Dispenser

Bio coming soon!

opening hours

Monday-Saturday: 9am-5pm

Sunday: Closed

Our Customers Say

Highly recommended

Patients consistently praise our care, time and professional service.

"So human and helpful — refreshing to visit an opticians that has time for clients."

Francesca Otterson

“Fantastic customer service — nothing was too much trouble.”

Jan Green

"Couldnt be happier with my experience. Thorough eye exam with an optician who really listened to what I needed, fantastic, friendly and helpful customer service, great selection of frames. And the lenses they recommended are a revelation; streets ahead of anything else I've tried. Perfect. ".

Dr Amanda Dalcassian

"Super range of glasses, wonderful service. Exceeded my expectations and therefore bought two pairs !! Great shopping experience".

Janice Warford

"A very professional, yet relaxing optician. A thorough eye examination that was explained in detail as it went along. No sales pressure in choosing frames, just expert help and advice. A model for the ideal optician. Well done. "

David Siebert

"Firstly, thank you ALL for your kindness and attention you have always given me. From the very first time I came in to register with you, you've always been friendly, kind, helpful and most of all, very professional. I would not hesitate to recommend you to the whole world! Thanking you as always for EVERYTHING".

Simon Haeems