About Us

The Big Optician is based in Ouseburn, Newcastle with free parking at the door.  Established in 2004, our practice has been a trusted optician in the eye care profession for two decades. Founded from scratch by Keith and Karen Little, we’re proud to be a family-owned and managed business that prioritises patient care and satisfaction. Over the years, our commitment to these principles has only deepened.

If you are looking for individualised, high quality eyecare and a discerning range of stylish eyewear, all in a convenient environment then The Big Optician is the Newcastle optician for you.

Our vision

Our founding vision was clear – to create a practice that not only offers an extensive selection of eyewear, but also provides first-rate eye care. We operate with only fully qualified optometrists who possess substantial professional experience, ensuring that our patients receive the highest level of clinical care. To put it simply, we’re committed to delivering first-class eyecare, exceptional value and excellent customer service.

Get to know us

What sets us apart from other optical practices is our longstanding presence in the sector and our continued family ownership. Our team, many of whom have been with us since our doors first opened in 2004, bring a wealth of experience and industry knowledge. With most staff members having dedicated 18 years or more to The Big Optician, we provide our customers with continuity of care where professionalism and friendliness enhance the quality of our services.  We welcome both NHS and private patients, providing them with exceptional clinical care from our fully-qualified and experienced opticians.

During your visit

Situated in the vibrant Ouseburn of Newcastle area, our practice boasts a stylish and contemporary store with air-conditioned waiting and consulting rooms. For the utmost convenience, we offer unlimited FREE at-the-door parking and a layout designed with our patients in mind: everything is on one level.

Our services

Our comprehensive 30-minute NHS and private eye tests include advanced features such as retinal photography, ensuring the detection of glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic changes. Our patient-friendly approach is evident in our ‘no puff’ eye tests, where we have eliminated the dreaded ‘puff test,’ replacing it with quick and discomfort-free glaucoma screenings.

What truly distinguishes us is our commitment to offering one of the largest ranges of designer glasses and sunglasses at competitive prices. Our hundreds of frames on display cater to every lifestyle, from budget-friendly options to the latest designer eyewear collections. We can provide contact lenses straight from our stock, so you don’t have to wait. We also take pride in being Seiko vision specialists, ensuring our patients have access to cutting-edge lens technology.

Our friendly, experienced frame stylists are there to guide you through our expertly curated range of spectacle frames and spectacle lenses.

What makes us unique

Beyond our commitment to exceptional eye care and an extensive selection of eyewear, we actively engage in charitable activities, reinforcing our dedication to the community. For example, the Brain Tumour Research charity and the Eve Appeal (for gynaecological cancer research) are both causes that are close to our hearts.

Our practice represents not just an optician but a hub of eyecare excellence, where patients can experience a unique blend of expertise, convenience, and affordability.

Store 360° View

Meet the Team

Karen

Co-Founder
of The Big Optician

Gillian

Optometrist
18+ years of service with The Big Optician

Jennie

Dispensing Assistant
20 years of service with The Big Optician

Joanne

Dispensing Assistant
18+ years of service with The Big Opticians

Joanne

Dispensing Assistant
18+ years of service with The Big Optician

Debbie

Dispensing Assistant
18+ years of service with The Big Optician

Adam

Dispensing Assistant
16+ years of service with The Big Optician

Helen

Dispensing Assistant
20 years of Optical Industry experience