Thanks for the great review Steve, we really appreciate it :)
Shawna Explores2026.07.26
I had such a wonderful experience! Everyone was so friendly and helpful. The team took the time to help me choose a pair of glasses that I absolutely love, while also making sure they were within my budget.
I also had a great experience with the optometrist, Gurjinder, who made the eye test feel so relaxed and was so friendly.
I couldn't be happier with the service I received and will definitely be recommending them to friends. I'll certainly be back in the future. Thank you to the whole team!
Thank you so much Shawna for your wonderful review! We’re delighted you had such a positive experience and that you found glasses you love within your budget. It’s lovely to hear Gurjinder made your eye test relaxed and enjoyable too. Thank you for recommending us and we look forward to seeing you again!
Eileen Hay2026.07.08
Lovely service ,so attentive ,nothing was too much trouble .Lovely towards my son really put him at ease
Thank you Eileen for your lovely review! We're so pleased to hear you received such attentive service and that our team made your son feel comfortable and at ease. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you both back again soon!
Barbara Newton2026.06.26
Very happy with the friendly, professional service I received from the staff at North Junction Street and would recommend them to friends and family. I’m enjoying wearing my new glasses. 🤓
Thanks for the great review Barbara, we really appreciate it!
Federica Cinosi2026.06.25
This is a lovely local practice where you get a really nice, warm, friendly and personalised service from all the staff. Gurjinder is an incredibly professional and knowledgeable optometrist who explains everything very clearly (I learned things I didn't know although I have been going to optometrists since I was 5!), while I was supported by the incredibly kind advisors in choosing the best frames for my face, which I find always challenging, but was a smooth and fun process with their help. They have a very good selection of frames. Will definitely favour this practice vs the usual chains going forward.
Thank you Federica for your kind review! We're so pleased you enjoyed your experience with us. Your lovely feedback means a great deal to our team, and we look forward to seeing you again soon.
SPAA Secretary2026.06.13
as usual so helpful and fabulous ranges of glasses
Eye sight examination.
Excellent.
Friendly, gentle and very professional.
Massively better than my previous experiences at big brand opticians.
Date of experience: 12 May, 2026
My son and I both had check ups at the Leith branch of Downes Opticians and both appointments were faultless. All three staff were wonderful – very kind, and incredibly helpful with a special request to help my son. The Optician was thorough, professional and very knowledgeable – I enjoyed my science lesson! Thank you to the whole team.
Thank you Emily for your wonderful review. We're delighted to hear that both you and your son had such a positive experience at our Leith branch. It's great to know our team were able to help with your special request and that you found the examination thorough, professional and informative. We'll be sure to pass your kind comments on to the team. We look forward to welcoming you both again in the future.
Piers Deseilligny2026.04.25
Just came in to get some sunglasses but will be back for my eye test when it's due - staff was really pleasant and helpful, and wasn't pushing to upsell like a lot of other opticians do.
Thanks for your kind review Piers! We're glad you had a positive, no-pressure experience with our team. Enjoy your sunglasses, and we’ll look forward to seeing you again for your eye test!
The staff at Downes opticians are very friendly and helpful. They explained everything they were doing and guided me through the process. 10/10 would recommend
Thank you Amber for your kind feedback! We’re so glad you felt well guided and supported throughout your visit. We really appreciate the recommendation!
Amanda Pickin2026.04.04
Very thorough eye test with up to date technology. The optician took time to explain everything and address any concerns. The staff are friendly and put you at ease.
Thank you Amanda for your kind review! We’re so pleased you felt at ease and well looked after. It’s great to hear you found the eye test thorough and informative — we really appreciate your feedback!
I found everyone at Downes exceptionally helpful , friendly and patient to help me get exactly the specialist eye care I wanted and advise me honestly in my options.
Thanks for the great review Becka, we really appreciate it. We hope to see you again :)
Kit Donaldson2026.02.15
I always recommend Downes. A smaller business, much more personalised. I struggle with a lot of different things so it takes me a bit longer to have an appointment. I have previously burst into tears at feeling rushed at a larger named opticians. I came here for a specialist test over 6 years ago and have never looked back. Downes have always been extra kind and extra accommodating and still on NHS. Brilliant.
While their customer I became very ill and then diagnosed with T1 diabetes. This caused havoc with my eyesight and they've been extra careful even having me sent for an eyeCT to check there was no lasting damage. My eyesight is now back to normal for 2 years now and they're still being extra careful watching for any changes. I feel safe and cared for and not just another customer in the cog of mass chains.
Thanks Downes.
Thank you so much Kit for your heartfelt review. We’re deeply touched to hear how much our personalised care has made a difference for you over the years. It’s wonderful to know that you’ve felt supported, listened to, and truly cared for—especially during challenging times with your health. Your trust means so much to us, and we’re committed to continuing to provide careful, attentive care for your eyesight. We’re so glad you feel safe and valued, and we truly appreciate your kind words and ongoing support.