Listen—if you’re in Hove and you’ve been squinting at street signs, or you’ve noticed yourself saying “pardon?” more than you’d like, just go. The Specsavers at 109-110 George Street is right near the station, so you can’t miss it. (Unless your vision is really bad. In that case, use Google Maps. Or ask a stranger. We’re friendly.)
Book a dual appointment. Seriously. It costs the same as a standard eye test in many cases, but you get the hearing check thrown in. It’s like ordering chips and getting a free side of onion rings. Who says no to that?
The vibe in there is surprisingly relaxed. No clinical white tiles. No smells that remind you of the doctor’s office. Just soft lighting, friendly voices, and a sense that these people actually want to help you, not just upsell you on blue-light-blocking lenses you don’t need.
The final irony
I walked out with new frames—a dark tortoiseshell pair that made me look like I might write a novel (I don’t)—and a clean bill of hearing. But the real takeaway was this: we treat our eyes and ears like separate countries, but they’re neighbours. When one gate gets rusty, the other starts creaking.
So next time you’re in Hove, pop in. Even if you’re just browsing for sunglasses. Chat to the staff. Ask Sarah about the brain–ear connection. Make Tom’s day by complimenting that tie—he’ll blush. And if you hear me mumbling at a café table about blurry text, please don’t judge. I’m just learning to listen with my eyes, one appointment at a time.
