Hedge End

hedgeend@rawlingsopticians.co.uk

Address

10 St John’s Centre
Hedge End
SO30 4QU

Opening Times

Monday to Friday	09.00 - 17.30
Saturday	09.00 - 16.00

We are closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays

About
Hedge End
branch

About Hedge End branch

Welcome to Rawlings, Independent Opticians & Hearing Care in Hedge End

Located in the heart of Hedge End, our friendly and professional team has been delivering expert eye care and hearing services for over 30 years. We’re proud to still have some of our original team members still working within Rawlings. We bring decades of experience to your visit.

Qualified opticians offering comprehensive eye examinations

Using advanced OCT scans to detect early signs of eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. We also provide contact lens fittings for all ages. We are specialists in Myopia Management for children, helping to slow the progression of short-sightedness. Our thorough examinations are tailored to your individual needs, ensuring your vision is always in safe hands.

Looking for stylish new eyewear?

Choose from top designer frames like Longchamp, Saint Laurent. Or express your individuality with bold, colourful designs from Bellinger, Vanni, and Dutz and Be More. Our dispensing opticians offer a boutique, personal styling experience to help you find the perfect pair.

Children’s eyecare is a priority, with a wide selection of NHS and durable kids’ frames available, plus expert advice for young contact lens wearers.

We also provide trusted audiology services.

Our hearing care team offers free hearing tests, ear wax removal (ages 5+), custom earplugs, and private hearing aids.

Whether you’re exploring the local golf courses or sailing on the Solent, ask about our Maui Jim sunglasses—perfect for reducing glare and improving performance outdoors.

Pop in and meet our welcoming team at Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care Hedge End. We’re here to help you see and hear your best.

What our Hedge End customers say about us

4.9

Based on 343 reviews

Review Us

Service is first class from the eye test to going out the door with your new glasses(assuming you need them which I did not). They are not testing you to fail the eye test and buy glasses as some others I have tried appear to do. will not go anywhere else.

Rawlings Hedge End

Jon Dean
3/02/2026

Visited Rawlings recently after booking in to try an independent opticians rather than my usual.

Booking:
Booked in online and found the system self explanatory and really easy to use. I was also appreciative of the emails alerts reminding me of my appointment.

Visit:
Rawlings was easy to locate with parking close by. The receptionist was very friendly and welcoming.

The optician was informative providing information/reasoning about the examinations/tests being performed. Even though the price for the examination is more than I would normally pay, it definitely felt like I was getting my moneys worth.

Area for Improvement:
The practice felt a little tired in terms of decor i.e. Chairs/Carpet. One of the chairs I went to sit in felt a little unstable.

I would definitely recommend Rawlings as it will now become my preferred opticians.

Rawlings Hedge End

Daniel Witcomb
5/15/2023

Since having cataracts removed from both my eyes in 2022, I have had annual eye tests at Rawlings, and each time have been treated with courtesy and care. This last time has resulted in the most thorough examination I have ever had, and a small problem was identified and referred to my GP for hospital attention. My sight is precious to me, and I am so grateful for the expertise of the optician who saw me.

Rawlings Hedge End

Prue Rossiter
12/09/2025
Once one got to know the staff, how they operate the service was second to none! I have severe issues with my left eye and the staff were brilliant in accommodating this, ‘Jazz’ in her eye testing role did a first class job - thank you Rawlings!

Rawlings Hedge End

Eddie T Hill
11/10/2025

I popped into Rawlings Hedge End for a check up as it had been 2 years from my previous appt at another company.
The service and people were great, however the cost of the lenses I required were just too much for me to carry on with the experience.

Rawlings Hedge End

paul loveridge
7/22/2024

All the staff at Rawlings are excellent. I often need to be seen between appointments. They always say “that’s what we’re here for.” They take the time to reassure and carefully check any problem. It gives me peace of mind.

Rawlings Hedge End

janet cridland
3/28/2026
I booked an eye test and scan with Rawlings Opticians in Hedge End, Southampton as reading was becoming a struggle and my last eye test was about 25 years ago.

When I called Rawlings the phone was answered quickly, politely, informatively and professionally.

On the day of my appointment I arrived and although they were busy I was greeted and offering seating, I only waited a wee while before the optician (Simon I think) came out to introduce himself and usher me in the the examination room.

The eye test was very thorough and they have some great tech, Simon? explained the scan and all the other test findings and that I did indeed need glasses.

The branch manager spoke to me about many options but as I had to collect my 3 young children from school I said I would return with my wife.

There wasn’t any pressure sales which was grand.
You have yet to call them to find a suitable return date.
I’d recommend them for sure.

Rawlings Hedge End

Anthony Stark
7/03/2023

We visited the Winchester branch first to look at sunglasses that could take my prescription. They didn’t have the right style for me but sent me to the Chandlers Ford branch who had a possible pair. It was very busy in C/Ford branch but the staff were very helpful and kept us updated. We found a pair that suited means that fitted perfectly. The corrected sunglasses have been ordered and I look forward to getting them. A very good service all round and my wife and I have been using Rawlings for many years. Thank you for a very good service from Rawlings.

Rawlings Hedge End

Jeremy Bryon
10/16/2023

Have been going to Rawlings for many years and found the staff very pleasant and helpful also the eye test is very thorough

Rawlings Hedge End

Valerie Holdaway
1/26/2026
Attended Hedge End branch on 5 Feb for an emergency appointment. Gemma who carried out the scans was kind and friendly. Simon the optician was very thorough with examining my eyes, explained everything very clearly and I left feeling reassured. We are long standing customers of Rawlings and although my regular branch at Chandlers Ford could not offer an appointment within 48 hours, they organised an appointment at the hedge end branch for which I am very grateful.

Rawlings Hedge End

Sarah MG
2/09/2026

Very polite, respectful and professional staff.
Once, before I was a client, they tightened and replaced a screw on the branches of my glasses free of charge. A very courteous gesture which will be remembered.

Rawlings Hedge End

Patricia Fenwick
9/22/2025

A lovely opticians with approachable friendly staff. The optometrist was so good with my 6 year old, thorough, clear and put her at ease. I'd thoroughly recommend Rawlings Opticians in Hedge End. We've visited a few times and had similar experiences each time.

Rawlings Hedge End

Debs- Kolade Bolorunduro
5/18/2024
A totally brilliant practice - have used Rawlings services for a number of years and actually live out of the area, but still choose to attend all of my appointment with the Hedge End branch. All of the staff are fantastic and Simon the Optician is simply the best - very caring and professional.

Rawlings Hedge End

carolyne worsem
11/06/2022

With my eye problem, I was given a thorough eye examination and an excellent on-going treatment plan. As always, staff were welcoming, polite and professional.

Rawlings Hedge End

maurice redmill
3/30/2026

Everyone was very helpful, welcoming and professional. I saw an optician within a day of phoning, who was very thorough in checking my eyes and referring me to eye casualty, where I received further treatment. Thank you for the follow up calls and concern to make sure I was seen treated promptly. All is well thanks to Rawlings.

Rawlings Hedge End

Jane Ingram
4/07/2025
My contact lens and eye sight check appointment were very good.
Very thorough with very good explanations of all that was being carried out. Very caring staff.

Rawlings Hedge End

Beth Kidd
6/22/2026

Very helpful knowledgeable staff, when I visited yesterday. I had noticed there weren't enough chairs when I visited twice, once for eye test and the following day to order new glasses. The new interior looks very nice , but would say more chairs for the elderly.

Rawlings Hedge End

Nick Green
1/23/2025

My eye check has been, for several years, in the hands of an excellent optician from Rawlins. I’ve tried others over the years but I have been very happy since going to Rawlins. I would always recommend them especially Simon at Hedge End branch, he spotted a problem and referred me to the hospital quickly. The hospital was amazed when I said that my optician found the problem as it’s not an easy thing to pick up! Thank you!

Rawlings Hedge End

Ann Squires
10/23/2025
I have used Rawlings for spectacles for many years and am very happy with service ,I now am trying hearing aids after struggling with NHS products through Specsavers (not the best ) . I am in first week of use with hearing aids ,few small problems , but appointment next week for check to see all ok and fully expect with advice all rectified. Now days it is good to feel you are an individual and getting service as it used to be ,but sadly forgotten in many places .excellent Staff. .

Rawlings Hedge End

Vernon Head
7/13/2026

Outstanding service, from beginning to end, went above and beyond for my son, professional, friendly and answered all of our questions. Many thanks to the Hedge End branch.

Rawlings Hedge End

Davine Lucis
2/16/2026

I walked all the way to the local Rawlings Opticians this morning for my scheduled appointment in the pouring rain and freezing cold, having got up especially early to make the appointment on time. When I got there, I was told the appointment had been cancelled because the optician hadn't yet arrived. I had to walk back in the pouring rain. They could have easily rung someone else who hadn't yet left home and cancelled their appointment.
I had a much better experience the following week, though, and they have offered to change my glasses if they are not satisfactory within the first month.

Rawlings Hedge End

Vincent Iyengar
12/02/2025

Our Hedge End branch staff

Manager

Natasha Merriman

FBDO

When I left school, I initially planned to pursue a career in law, but quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit for me—it felt too cutthroat, and I knew I wanted to work more closely with people. I started working in an opticians, where I was given the opportunity to train as a Dispensing Assistant. From there, I went on to complete my Dispensing Optician qualification at the Association of British Dispensing Opticians in Canterbury.

I’ve been fascinated by eyes and eyewear from an early age, as my sister needed glasses as a toddler and so I loved the environment straight away. However, working in large multiples often meant there wasn’t enough time to spend with patients, which I found frustrating. I truly believe that helping someone find their perfect pair of glasses—both frames and lenses—takes time, care, and building genuine rapport.

I moved to an independent practice in Petersfield, where I felt much more at home and was able to focus on providing a more personal service. After relocating, I returned to a multiple and moved into management, but again found the time pressures challenging, as they limited the level of care I could offer.

I’m passionate about the life-changing impact of getting the right frames and lenses—something that can’t be underestimated. I also have a special interest in myopia management, which is particularly meaningful to me as both my sister and I are highly short-sighted. It’s an exciting and evolving area, and one I’m proud to be part of.

Joining Rawlings as the Hedge End Branch Manager felt like the perfect opportunity. As an independent, we have greater choice of manufacturers, which allows for better outcomes for our patients, and the time to deliver the relaxed, personalised dispensing experience I value so highly. Rawlings’ expertise in myopia management made the role an even better fit.

Outside of work, I’m a classically trained singer. I’m currently taking a break from performing, but I still sing for pleasure and hope to return to the stage in the future. I also enjoy keeping fit at the gym.

Optometrists / Contact Lens Opticians / Audiologists

Simon Cabell

BSc MCOptom

Read bio

My Optics career started at a local contact lens manufacturer as a college student in the 1980s. I then joined Rawlings in 1993 after graduating from Aston University. I qualified in 1994 while working at the Alton and Winchester branches.

After a couple of years I joined the Hedge End branch and now work mainly at Hedge End with one day a week back in Winchester. I have been involved with staff training in a supervisory role which is very rewarding and was also a committee member and instructor at the Aston University Archery Club. At Rawlings I enjoy fitting a wide variety of modern high tech. contact lenses particularly with sports and hobbies in mind.

Out of work I enjoy playing guitar and running. In my free time I also support local charities such the Portsmouth Hospital’s Charity the Rocky Appeal. I also enjoy sporting events such as the Great South Run. My family and I also like to visit museums and places of historical interest.

Shin Yi Tan

BSc MCOptom Prof Cert Med Ret

Read bio

I’ve worn glasses since I was a teenager, so I’ve always understood the importance of good eye care. My interest in optometry began when a cousin of mine was studying the profession and suggested it might be a good career for me. After looking into it further, I realised it combined everything I was looking for – healthcare, science and the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives.

Originally from Malaysia, I moved to Singapore to study optometry before relocating to Manchester to complete my optometry degree. My first role after qualifying was in Portsmouth, and I later moved to Southampton, where I gained extensive experience working within a large optical group.

Over the years, I progressed to become a supervisor for newly qualified optometrists undertaking their pre-registration placements, helping to support and mentor the next generation of eye care professionals. I also returned to Singapore for a research placement, which was both enjoyable and valuable. However, it reminded me how much I missed working directly with patients and building relationships with the people I care for.

I have a particular interest in myopia management, contact lenses and glaucoma. As a short-sighted contact lens wearer myself, I understand first-hand the impact that good vision correction can have on everyday life. My interest in glaucoma is also personal, as I have family members affected by the condition, which has given me a strong appreciation of the importance of early detection and ongoing monitoring.

Having worked within a large multiple, I knew that I wanted to find an environment where I could provide more personalised care and build long-term relationships with my patients. That’s what attracted me to Rawlings. I’m especially excited to be part of the team.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, particularly cycling, and I love travelling whenever I get the chance. When I’m not out exploring, you’ll often find me relaxing with a good film.

Ryan Blake

MSHAA, RHAD

Read bio

My audiology career started in 2014 at a large chain of opticians where I was initially employed in the optical side of the business, however I quickly realised I was more interested in ears than eyes. I embarked on the hearing care assistant course, and was soon trained to program hearing aids, complete hearing assessments, and manage the aftercare of hearing aids.

I decided I wanted to gain more knowledge and expertise – by this time I knew that audiology was where my future lay so I started my foundation degree in Hearing Aid Audiology at De Montfort University and graduated in 2021.

During the course my interest in hearing aid technology grew tremendously and my understanding and passing on the benefits that private hearing aids offer over NHS aids for my patients is my top priority. By working at Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care I can give patients more choice due to Rawlings being independent, so I am not restricted in my recommendations by being tied to a single manufacturer. This really allows me to offer the best advice and was the main reason for me choosing Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care to progress my audiology career.

I currently live in the town of Andover with my young family. I have a toddler who always keeps me busy so any hobbies I once had are now on hold.

Jeanette Fox

Hearing Care Assistant

Read bio

I started my career in refrigeration and air conditioning, spending many years in that industry. After being made redundant when the company downsized, I decided it was time for a change — and that’s when I joined Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care.

At first, I worked on the optical side, but as the audiology service grew, I was offered the chance to take the HCA course. I jumped at it — and I’m so glad I did! I absolutely love my role. Every day, I get to meet interesting, lovely people and help them hear more clearly again, which is incredibly rewarding.

I’m married, and between us we have four children and six grandchildren who keep us on our toes! I enjoy walking, watching rugby and football (especially Liverpool FC), and I’m always up for a good cocktail — though not necessarily in that order 😊

Bill Mills

MSHAA

Read bio

I am passionate about my job, and I believe in giving excellent service delivered with trust and integrity and clients regularly refer friends and family to me. When the position of Audiology Lead with Rawlings Opticians came up, I knew it was the perfect role as I wanted to work with a genuinely “independent” hearing device provider, not one which is either owned or allied to one particular brand.

I knew from experience that this would give me the opportunity to give a more professional service to tailor the hearing solution more specifically to the patients’ individual requirements. Offering wax removal and earplugs as well leads to an interesting and varied working day.

My life as a Hearing Aid Audiologist began in 2014 when I decided to have a career change as having had many years of international travel working in the textile industry, I wanted to be based in the UK for a better work/life balance. I enjoy working with people and to be able to genuinely improve someone’s quality of life puts a smile on my face (as well as my patients!) when they realise what a difference hearing well can make to them. Providing audiology services has seen me working in Devon for a hearing brand before moving to Hampshire to deliver hearing care for a national optical company. Previously based in Lymington, I have worked across multiple locations across Hampshire and Dorset.

I’m a hearing aid wearer, as my hearing was damaged while working in the textile industry. I like to wear Widex aids and have been doing so for the past 3 years

Our dispensing team

Natasha Merriman FBDO
Janet Bagley FBDO
Rebecca Chiverton
Brooke Barnett-Dalmas

Travel information

Nearest car park

Immediately behind the practice. Free parking for up to 2 hours

Nearest bus stop & routes

Bus stop right outside practice and on opposite side of the street
Bluestar 3 connects Hedge End to Southampton (via Bitterne) and Eastleigh
Bluestar 24 links Hedge End with Eastleigh

Nearest train station

Hedge End

Nearest AED/Defibrillator

Hedge End Library, 11 Upper Northam Rd, Hedge End, Southampton SO30 4DY

Disabled access

• Disabled parking: Available in nearby car parks (St Johns, Budgens, Co-op).
• Step-free access: Yes.
• Thresholds/lips: Small raised area near reception.
• Stairs: None.
• Navigation challenges: Small instrument room; easier if patients can transfer.
• Additional notes: No on-street parking nearby.

Out of hours eyecare for customers of the Hedge End practice

There are occasions when emergency treatment is needed for the eyes. If you are concerned and it is outside of our opening hours there is an eye casualty department based at Southampton General Hospital which is open Monday to Friday. The phone number for advice to see if you require an urgent appointment at the hospital is 02381 206592. For more information click on this link.

Outside of Eye Casualty opening hours call Casualty on 02380 777222, where an eye doctor is on-call for emergencies. Alternatively you can contact your GP to access their out of hours service or call 111 for further advice.

If you are not sure whether you need emergency attention click this link for further information. Click here for directions to the hospital.

Search the Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care website

Hedge End

Address

Opening Times

Eye Examination

Contact Lenses

Hearing Assessment

Wax Removal

About
Hedge End
branch

About Hedge End branch

Welcome to Rawlings, Independent Opticians & Hearing Care in Hedge End

Qualified opticians offering comprehensive eye examinations

Looking for stylish new eyewear?

We also provide trusted audiology services.

What our Hedge End customers say about us

Our Hedge End branch staff

Natasha Merriman

Optometrists / Contact Lens Opticians / Audiologists

Simon Cabell

Shin Yi Tan

Ryan Blake

Jeanette Fox

Bill Mills

Our dispensing team

Travel information

Out of hours eyecare for customers of the Hedge End practice

Rawlings Branches Near Me

Services

About us

Hedge End

Address

Opening Times

Eye Examination

Contact Lenses

Hearing Assessment

Wax Removal

AboutHedge Endbranch

About Hedge End branch

Welcome to Rawlings, Independent Opticians & Hearing Care in Hedge End

Qualified opticians offering comprehensive eye examinations

Looking for stylish new eyewear?

We also provide trusted audiology services.

What our Hedge End customers say about us

Our Hedge End branch staff

Natasha Merriman

Optometrists / Contact Lens Opticians / Audiologists

Simon Cabell

Shin Yi Tan

Ryan Blake

Jeanette Fox

Bill Mills

Our dispensing team

Travel information

Out of hours eyecare for customers of the Hedge End practice

About
Hedge End
branch