Duncan & Todd Group
About Duncan & Todd Group
Duncan & Todd is a leading Scottish opticians group headquartered in Aberdeen, with practices across Scotland and the north of England. Originally established as a single practice, they have grown into one of Scotland's most respected optical groups through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions. They are known for their clinical expertise, wide range of premium eyewear, and strong ties to the communities they serve.
Duncan & Todd was founded in 1972 by Ian Todd, who opened his first optical practice in Aberdeen. The business was built on a foundation of clinical excellence and personal service, quickly establishing a reputation as one of the north-east of Scotland's most trusted opticians. Aberdeen's thriving economy, driven by the North Sea oil industry, provided a strong base of patients who valued quality eyewear and thorough eye care, and the practice flourished.
Throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, Duncan & Todd expanded across Scotland, opening new practices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness, Stirling, and Perth. The group also grew through the acquisition of well-established local practices, a strategy that allowed it to enter new communities with an existing patient base and experienced staff. A key advantage for Duncan & Todd in Scotland is the Scottish NHS system, which provides free eye tests to all Scottish residents regardless of age or income — a policy that has been in place since 2006 and has increased the frequency of eye testing across the country.
More recently, Duncan & Todd has extended its reach south of the border into the north of England, acquiring practices in Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, and other northern English towns. This expansion has made Duncan & Todd a truly cross-border optical group, and the company now operates around 30 practices. The group has invested in modern clinical technology across its network, including OCT scanning and digital retinal photography, while maintaining the personal, community-focused approach that defined its founding practice in Aberdeen over five decades ago. Duncan & Todd also operates several audiology clinics, offering hearing tests and hearing aids alongside its optical services.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1972
- UK Stores
- 30
- Price Range
- Free NHS (Scotland) / From £25 private
- NHS Eye Tests
- Yes
- Services Offered
- 7
- Locations Listed
- 15
- Avg. Eye Test
- 25-30 minutes
Book an eye test
Duncan & Todd Eye Test Locations Across the UK
Find your nearest Duncan & Todd and book an eye test. We list Duncan & Todd locations in 4 regions across the United Kingdom.
North West
North East
Yorkshire and the Humber
Duncan & ToddServices & Pricing
A full breakdown of eye care services available at Duncan & Todd Group, including prices, duration, and NHS coverage information.
| Service | Description | Price | Duration | NHS Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NHS Eye Test | A comprehensive eye examination funded by the NHS. In Scotland, all residents are entitled to a free NHS eye test regardless of age or income. In England, standard NHS eligibility criteria apply. The test includes visual acuity assessment, refraction, eye pressure measurement, and a detailed examination of the health of the eyes. | Free (all Scottish residents / eligible English patients) | 20-25 minutes | |
| Private Eye Test | A full eye examination for patients in England who do not qualify for NHS-funded testing. The test covers all aspects of vision and eye health, including refraction, binocular vision, and a thorough internal and external examination of the eyes. Private eye tests at Duncan & Todd are competitively priced and include a detailed report of findings. | From £25 | 25-30 minutes | |
| Enhanced Eye Examination with OCT | An advanced eye test that includes OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanning, producing detailed 3D images of the retina and optic nerve. This technology enables early detection of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy — often years before symptoms appear. Duncan & Todd recommends this as a baseline scan for patients over 25. | From £35 | 30-35 minutes | |
| Contact Lens Fitting | A specialist appointment for patients wanting to try or change contact lenses. The consultation includes corneal curvature measurements, tear film evaluation, and a trial fitting with the most suitable lens type. Duncan & Todd offers a wide range of contact lenses, including daily disposables, monthly lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, and multifocal options. | From £30 | 30-40 minutes | |
| Hearing Assessment | A comprehensive hearing test provided at selected Duncan & Todd practices with audiology clinics. The assessment includes an ear examination, pure tone audiometry, and speech discrimination testing. If hearing loss is identified, the audiologist will discuss hearing aid options from leading manufacturers. | Free | 30 minutes | |
| Children's Eye Test | A child-friendly eye examination using age-appropriate techniques. In Scotland, all children receive free NHS eye tests, and Duncan & Todd optometrists are experienced in making the experience relaxed and enjoyable for younger patients. The test checks for common childhood vision issues including amblyopia, squint, and refractive errors. | Free (NHS funded) | 20-30 minutes |
NHS Eye Test
NHSA comprehensive eye examination funded by the NHS. In Scotland, all residents are entitled to a free NHS eye test regardless of age or income. In England, standard NHS eligibility criteria apply. The test includes visual acuity assessment, refraction, eye pressure measurement, and a detailed examination of the health of the eyes.
Private Eye Test
A full eye examination for patients in England who do not qualify for NHS-funded testing. The test covers all aspects of vision and eye health, including refraction, binocular vision, and a thorough internal and external examination of the eyes. Private eye tests at Duncan & Todd are competitively priced and include a detailed report of findings.
Enhanced Eye Examination with OCT
An advanced eye test that includes OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scanning, producing detailed 3D images of the retina and optic nerve. This technology enables early detection of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy — often years before symptoms appear. Duncan & Todd recommends this as a baseline scan for patients over 25.
Contact Lens Fitting
A specialist appointment for patients wanting to try or change contact lenses. The consultation includes corneal curvature measurements, tear film evaluation, and a trial fitting with the most suitable lens type. Duncan & Todd offers a wide range of contact lenses, including daily disposables, monthly lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, and multifocal options.
Hearing Assessment
A comprehensive hearing test provided at selected Duncan & Todd practices with audiology clinics. The assessment includes an ear examination, pure tone audiometry, and speech discrimination testing. If hearing loss is identified, the audiologist will discuss hearing aid options from leading manufacturers.
Children's Eye Test
NHSA child-friendly eye examination using age-appropriate techniques. In Scotland, all children receive free NHS eye tests, and Duncan & Todd optometrists are experienced in making the experience relaxed and enjoyable for younger patients. The test checks for common childhood vision issues including amblyopia, squint, and refractive errors.
Duncan & ToddPros & Cons
An honest look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Duncan & Todd Group for your eye care.
Advantages
- Scotland's leading independent optical group with over 50 years of heritage
- All Scottish residents receive free NHS eye tests at Duncan & Todd
- Premium eyewear selection including brands not widely available at chain opticians
- Community-focused practices with strong local ties and experienced staff
- Investment in modern clinical technology including OCT scanning
Considerations
- Geographic coverage is limited to Scotland and the north of England
- Not all practices have audiology services — availability varies by location
- Fewer locations than national chains, meaning longer travel for some patients
How to Book an Eye Test at Duncan & Todd
Follow these simple steps to book your next eye test with Duncan & Todd Group.
Find your nearest Duncan & Todd practice by entering your postcode on eyetest.co.uk
Review available services and appointment types — including free NHS eye tests for Scottish residents
Choose a convenient date and time from the available slots
Enter your personal details and any relevant medical information
Receive an email confirmation with your appointment details and practice directions
Attend your appointment — bring your current glasses or contact lenses and any NHS exemption evidence (England only)
Why Choose Duncan & Todd?
Scotland's leading independent opticians group
Free NHS eye tests available to all residents in Scotland
Premium eyewear selection including exclusive brands
Strong heritage and community involvement across northern UK
NHS Eye Tests at Duncan & Todd
Duncan & Todd Groupoffers free NHS-funded eye tests for eligible patients. You may qualify if you're under 16, over 60, on certain benefits, or have specific medical conditions. Check eligibility and book through eyetest.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Duncan & Todd
Common questions about eye tests, services, and booking at Duncan & Todd Group.
Are eye tests free at Duncan & Todd in Scotland?
Yes, all residents of Scotland are entitled to a free NHS eye test, regardless of age, income, or medical history. This applies at all Duncan & Todd practices in Scotland. The Scottish Government has provided universal free eye tests since 2006 as part of its commitment to preventive healthcare. If you live in England and visit a Duncan & Todd practice south of the border, standard NHS eligibility criteria apply.
Where does Duncan & Todd have practices?
Duncan & Todd operates approximately 30 practices across Scotland and the north of England. In Scotland, you will find practices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, Stirling, and Perth. In England, the group has practices in Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Middlesbrough, Darlington, Carlisle, Leeds, and York. The group continues to expand, particularly in northern England.
Is Duncan & Todd an independent opticians?
Yes, Duncan & Todd is an independent optical group. It is not part of a multinational corporation like Boots (EssilorLuxottica) or Specsavers. The company was founded in Aberdeen in 1972 and has grown through a combination of organic expansion and acquisition of local practices. Its independent status allows it to choose its own range of frames, invest in the technology it considers most important, and maintain a distinctive approach to patient care.
What frame brands does Duncan & Todd stock?
Duncan & Todd carries a curated selection of premium, designer, and independent frame brands. The range typically includes names such as Tom Ford, Gucci, Saint Laurent, Lindberg, and Silhouette, alongside more widely available brands like Ray-Ban and Hugo Boss. Each practice may have a slightly different selection, and staff can help you find frames that suit your face shape, prescription, and budget.
Does Duncan & Todd offer hearing care?
Yes, Duncan & Todd provides hearing assessments and hearing aid services at selected practices. Hearing tests are free, and if hearing loss is identified, the audiologist will discuss a range of hearing aid options from leading manufacturers. Not all Duncan & Todd locations have audiology clinics, so check availability when booking.
Can I book a Duncan & Todd appointment through eyetest.co.uk?
Yes, Duncan & Todd practices are available for booking through eyetest.co.uk. Enter your postcode to find your nearest practice, choose your appointment type, and select a date and time that suits you. You will receive a confirmation email with everything you need to know before your visit.
How does the NHS optical voucher scheme work in Scotland?
In Scotland, all residents receive free NHS eye tests, and NHS optical vouchers are available to help with the cost of glasses. The voucher values are set by NHS Scotland and depend on your prescription and personal circumstances. Children, people on qualifying benefits, and those with complex prescriptions receive higher-value vouchers. Your Duncan & Todd dispensing optician will explain exactly how much the voucher covers and what, if anything, you will need to pay on top.
Does Duncan & Todd offer contact lenses?
Yes, Duncan & Todd offers a full contact lens service including initial assessments, trial fittings, and ongoing supply. They stock a wide range of lenses from major manufacturers. Regular supply plans are available for daily and monthly wearers, and Duncan & Todd optometrists can fit specialist lenses including toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal lenses for presbyopia.
Find a Duncan & Todd Near You
Enter your postcode to check availability and book an eye test at your nearest Duncan & Todd store.
Find a Duncan & Todd Opticians Near YouVisit Duncan & Todd Group directly: www.duncanandtodd.com