The Spectator

This March marks a special milestone for The Eye Place Bakewell as we proudly celebrate 20 years of caring for our community’s vision. While two decades is an achievement in itself, our story stretches back much further, over 300 years, to a remarkable heritage rooted in craftsmanship, quality and trust.

Our origins can be traced to 1720, when a business known as Woodcock’s Consulting Opticians was established. Even in those early days, the focus was clear: to manufacture “spectacles and eyeglasses of a very high standard.” This commitment to excellence became the foundation of a legacy that would endure for centuries.

Over time, Woodcock’s evolved into John Pepper Opticians, run by the  great-great-great-grandson of the original founders. Generations of expertise and dedication ensured that the values of precision, personal care and quality were never lost.

In 2006, Alex Kemp acquired the business, continuing this proud tradition under a new name: The Eye Place. Now based at the former site of the Royal Oak in Bakewell, The Eye Place remains deeply connected to its heritage while embracing modern advancements in eye care.

Over the past 20 years, The Eye Place has grown from a single practice into a thriving group with 12 locations across the country. Despite this growth, our philosophy has remained unchanged: to provide outstanding clinical care alongside beautifully crafted eyewear, always tailored to the individual.

We have also been proud to build more than just a business; we have built a community. From hosting open days and exclusive eyewear showcases to welcoming patients into our practices for special events, we have always valued the relationships we have created along the way. Supporting local and national charities has also been an important part of our journey, with sponsorship of fundraising events and initiatives close to our hearts.

Our commitment to excellence has been recognised within the industry. Winning the 100% Optical Eyewear Retailer of the Year award in 2020 was a proud moment for our team and a reflection of the passion and dedication that goes into everything we do.

For two decades, we have combined tradition with innovation, offering expert eye examinations, carefully curated eyewear collections and a level of personalised service that remains at the core of The Eye Place experience. Yet, at the heart of it all, our mission is unchanged from that first workshop in 1720: to provide “spectacles and eyeglasses of a very high standard.”

As we celebrate this milestone, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to our loyal patients and the communities we serve. Your trust and support have been instrumental in our journey.

Here is to the next chapter in a story that has already spanned three centuries, and to many more years of exceptional eye care ahead.