Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Family Opticians in Bristol Since 1937
Established in 1937, Goatman & Batham has maintained its reputation as a family-owned independent practice dedicated to providing personalized eye care solutions. Our team of experienced optometrists and dispensing opticians combines decades of expertise with a commitment to staying at the forefront of optical advancements. We specialise in comprehensive eye examinations, precision spectacle dispensing, and tailored contact lens fittings for patients of all ages. Our curated selection of premium eyewear includes exclusive Lindberg frames, carefully chosen to cater to diverse tastes and prescriptions.With onsite facilities for minor repairs and adjustments, we ensure continuity of care beyond initial consultations. Our practice maintains strong ties to professional bodies including the General Optical Council and British Contact Lens Association, while our DBS-checked team prioritises patient safety through chaperone services. Through generations of service, we have built lasting relationships with our Bristol community, consistently delivering expert advice in a welcoming environment.
Services
Eye Examinations
Spectacle Dispensing
Contact Lenses
Sunglasses
Spectacle Repairs
Details
- Year established: 1937
Highlights and features
- Family-owned practice with 85+ years of local expertise
- Experienced team with specialist qualifications in contact lens fitting
- Curated selection of premium Lindberg frames
- Onsite facilities for spectacle repairs and adjustments
- DBS-checked staff with patient safety protocols
Associations and certifications
- General Optical Council
- British Contact Lens Association
What people say
Brilliant staff
Impressive selection
Work miracles
Attentive examinations
Family-friendly service
Services
Eye Examinations
Our comprehensive eye examinations use advanced diagnostic technology to assess visual acuity and ocular health. Gordon Batham, with over 30 years' experience, specialises in detecting binocular vision anomalies and prescribing tailored solutions. The process includes detailed assessments for both adults and children, ensuring accurate prescriptions and early detection of eye conditions.
Spectacle Dispensing
We offer precision spectacle dispensing with expert frame selection from our curated collection. Our qualified dispensers ensure perfect fit and comfort while advising on lens options. The service includes onsite adjustments and guarantees accurate alignment for optimal visual performance, particularly beneficial for complex prescriptions.
Contact Lenses
Specialist contact lens fittings include solutions for astigmatism and presbyopia. Gordon Batham's expertise in contact lens practice, including dry eye management, ensures comfortable, safe wear. We provide ongoing support and regular check-ups to maintain ocular health while using corrective lenses.
Sunglasses
Our premium sunglasses collection combines UV protection with designer aesthetics. We offer prescription and non-prescription options with advanced lens technologies. The service includes expert advice on frame selection for facial proportions and lens tinting for specific light conditions.
Spectacle Repairs
We provide onsite repairs for broken frames including screw replacement and nose pad adjustments. Complex repairs are handled through specialist workshops. Customers receive expert assessment via appointment, with options for temporary frames while repairs are completed, ensuring minimal disruption to daily activities.
People
Gordon Batham
Optometrist
BSc (hons) MCOptom with 30+ years' experience, former Cardiff University lecturer and College of Optometrists examiner. Specialises in contact lens fitting and binocular vision anomalies. DBS checked with child safeguarding certification.
Rachael Borley
Dispensing Optician
FBDO qualified with specialist interest in Lindberg frame curation. Practice manager since 2011, ensuring precision in spectacle dispensing and customer service excellence through continuous professional development.
Sarah Wells
Dispensing Optician
Experienced dispenser with technical expertise in onsite lens glazing. Rejoined the team after international experience, combining traditional optical skills with modern lens technology for optimal patient outcomes.
Juliana Batham
Practice Director
Industry veteran with expertise in optical systems and frame purchasing. Oversees business operations while maintaining fashion-forward frame selections that balance contemporary trends with classic styles for diverse clientele.
Rebecca Melluish
Receptionist
Newest team member since 2024 with optical reception experience. University graduate passionate about customer service, assisting clients in finding frames that complement their facial features and lifestyle needs.
Questions
What services do you offer beyond eye exams?
We provide spectacle dispensing, contact lens fittings, sunglass selection, frame repairs, and specialist lens solutions. Our onsite lab handles minor adjustments while maintaining high precision standards.
How long has the practice been established?
We've served the Clifton community since 1937, making us one of Bristol's longest-established independent opticians with four generations of expertise.
What makes your frame selection special?
Our curated collection features premium brands like Lindberg, with particular expertise in fitting complex prescriptions into stylish frames that suit individual facial proportions and lifestyle needs.
Can you repair broken spectacles?
Yes, we offer onsite repairs for minor damage and coordinate specialist repairs for metal frames. Please book an appointment for assessment and repair options.
Do you specialise in children's eye care?
Our team has extensive experience with paediatric eye examinations, offering a patient approach to ensure children feel comfortable during assessments and spectacle selection.
What are your opening hours?
We're open Tuesday-Friday 9am-5:30pm, Saturday 9am-5pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Appointments available for examinations and repairs during these times.
