Specsavers Audiology
About Specsavers Audiology
Specsavers Audiology is the UK's largest hearing care provider, operating from over 630 hearing centres inside Specsavers optical stores nationwide. They offer free hearing tests and provide both NHS and private hearing aids, making professional hearing care widely accessible across the country.
Specsavers was founded in 1984 on the island of Guernsey by Doug and Mary Perkins, who had previously operated an opticians chain in Bristol during the 1960s and 1970s. The company launched at a time of deregulation in the UK optical market, offering affordable eyecare on the high street through a distinctive joint-venture partnership model where local optometrists co-own their practices alongside the group.
The audiology division was introduced as Specsavers recognised the natural overlap between optical and hearing care customers. Hearing centres were rolled out inside existing Specsavers stores from the late 2000s, with rapid expansion through the 2010s. By leveraging its vast optical estate, Specsavers quickly became the UK's largest hearing care provider by volume.
Today, Specsavers Audiology operates from over 630 hearing centres across the UK and Ireland. The company remains privately owned by the Perkins family and is headquartered in Guernsey. It holds NHS contracts for hearing aid provision in many regions and has invested heavily in its own-brand hearing aid ranges, manufactured in partnership with major hearing aid OEMs, offering competitive pricing that has reshaped the UK hearing care market.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1984
- UK Locations
- 630
- Price Range
- Free (NHS) / £495–£3,500+ (private)
- NHS Hearing Tests
- Yes
- Services Offered
- 8
Book a hearing test
Specsavers Services & Pricing
A full breakdown of hearing care services available at Specsavers Audiology, including prices, duration, and NHS coverage information.
| Service | Description | Price | Duration | NHS Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Hearing Test | A comprehensive hearing assessment lasting around 30 minutes, conducted by a qualified audiologist. Includes otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, and speech-in-noise testing. Results are explained clearly with no obligation to purchase. | Free | 30 minutes | |
| NHS Hearing Aids | Digital behind-the-ear hearing aids provided free of charge through the NHS, where locally commissioned. Includes fitting, programming, follow-up appointments, batteries, and ongoing aftercare at no cost. | Free (NHS funded) | 60 minutes (fitting) | |
| Private Hearing Aids | A range of private hearing aids from the Specsavers Advance range, available in behind-the-ear and in-ear styles. All private aids include a 90-day trial, 4-year warranty, and batteries for the warranty period. | £495–£3,500+ per pair | 60 minutes (fitting) | |
| Ear Wax Removal | Professional ear wax removal using microsuction or irrigation methods. Available at most hearing centres and recommended before a hearing test if wax build-up is suspected. | £55 per ear | 30 minutes | |
| Tinnitus Consultation | A specialist consultation to assess and manage tinnitus symptoms. Includes a hearing assessment, discussion of tinnitus triggers and impact, and advice on management strategies including sound therapy options. | Free (initial assessment) | 45 minutes | |
| Hearing Aid Aftercare | Ongoing servicing and maintenance of hearing aids, including reprogramming, cleaning, tubing replacement, and battery supply. Free for the duration of the warranty period on private aids; always free for NHS aids. | Free (within warranty / NHS) | 15–30 minutes |
Free Hearing Test
A comprehensive hearing assessment lasting around 30 minutes, conducted by a qualified audiologist. Includes otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, and speech-in-noise testing. Results are explained clearly with no obligation to purchase.
NHS Hearing Aids
NHSDigital behind-the-ear hearing aids provided free of charge through the NHS, where locally commissioned. Includes fitting, programming, follow-up appointments, batteries, and ongoing aftercare at no cost.
Private Hearing Aids
A range of private hearing aids from the Specsavers Advance range, available in behind-the-ear and in-ear styles. All private aids include a 90-day trial, 4-year warranty, and batteries for the warranty period.
Ear Wax Removal
Professional ear wax removal using microsuction or irrigation methods. Available at most hearing centres and recommended before a hearing test if wax build-up is suspected.
Tinnitus Consultation
A specialist consultation to assess and manage tinnitus symptoms. Includes a hearing assessment, discussion of tinnitus triggers and impact, and advice on management strategies including sound therapy options.
Hearing Aid Aftercare
NHSOngoing servicing and maintenance of hearing aids, including reprogramming, cleaning, tubing replacement, and battery supply. Free for the duration of the warranty period on private aids; always free for NHS aids.
How to Book a Hearing Test at Specsavers
Follow these simple steps to book your next hearing test with Specsavers Audiology.
Book online at specsavers.co.uk, by phone, or walk in to your local store
Attend your free hearing test appointment with a qualified audiologist
Receive your results and discuss hearing aid options if needed
Choose NHS or private hearing aids and have them fitted to your ears
Attend follow-up appointments for fine-tuning and ongoing aftercare
Specsavers Pros & Cons
An honest look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Specsavers Audiology for your hearing care.
Advantages
- Free hearing tests with no purchase obligation
- Widest UK coverage with over 630 locations
- NHS hearing aids available alongside private options
- Competitive pricing with 90-day money-back guarantee
Considerations
- Own-brand hearing aids only — limited manufacturer choice
- Hearing centres are inside optical stores, which some find less clinical
- Appointment availability can be limited at busy locations
Why Choose Specsavers?
UK's largest hearing care provider with over 630 locations
Free hearing tests with no obligation
NHS hearing aids available where locally commissioned
90-day money-back guarantee on private hearing aids
4-year warranty and batteries included with private aids
Walk-in appointments available at most stores
NHS Hearing Tests at Specsavers
Specsavers Audiology offers NHS-funded hearing services for eligible patients. You may qualify for a free NHS hearing test and hearing aids through your GP. Check eligibility and book through hearingtest.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Specsavers
Common questions about hearing tests, services, and booking at Specsavers Audiology.
Is the Specsavers hearing test really free?
Yes, the hearing test is completely free with no obligation to purchase hearing aids. You will receive your full results and professional advice at no cost.
Does Specsavers offer NHS hearing aids?
Yes, Specsavers is an NHS-contracted hearing aid provider in many areas across the UK. Availability depends on local NHS commissioning. Your audiologist can advise whether NHS aids are available at your nearest store.
What brands of hearing aids does Specsavers sell?
Specsavers primarily offers its own Advance range of hearing aids, which are manufactured in partnership with leading hearing aid technology companies. These are designed to offer high-quality performance at competitive prices.
Can I try hearing aids before committing?
Yes, Specsavers offers a 90-day trial period on all private hearing aids. If you are not satisfied, you can return them for a full refund within this period.
Do I need a GP referral for a Specsavers hearing test?
No, you do not need a GP referral. You can book a hearing test directly online, by phone, or by visiting your local Specsavers store. However, a GP referral may be required for NHS hearing aids in some areas.
Find a Specsavers Near You
Enter your postcode to check availability and book a hearing test at your nearest Specsavers location.
Find Specsavers Near YouVisit Specsavers Audiology directly: www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing