Burghley Handbook
Everything you need to choose the right glasses with confidence.
Clear, honest eyewear advice written by Scott Phippen, UK Registered Dispensing Optician. From understanding your prescription to choosing lenses, coatings, frames and fit.
15 Premium Guides
Written by a UK Registered Dispensing Optician
No jargon. No guesswork.
Not sure where to begin?
Choose your starting point
The handbook is designed as a buying journey. Start with the guide that matches where you are now.
New to ordering online
Start with buying glasses online
Learn what you need before placing an order.
Have your prescription Understand your prescriptionSPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD and what they mean.
Choosing lens options Choose the right lensesSingle vision, varifocals, high index lenses, thinning and coatings.
Choosing a frame Find the right framesSize, comfort, bridge fit and prescription suitability.
Sun & screen lenses Compare sunglass and screen optionsPrescription sunglasses, photochromic, polarised and blue light lenses.
Explore Guides
The Burghley Handbook
Practical guides to help you make a more confident decision before buying prescription glasses online.
01
Buying Prescription Glasses Online
A clear guide to ordering glasses online safely and confidently.
10 min read 02Understanding Your Prescription
SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD and what your prescription actually means.
9 min read 03PD Explained
What pupillary distance is, why it matters and why you should not guess it.
8 min read 04Choosing Frames
Frame size, bridge fit, face shape, comfort and prescription suitability.
11 min read 05Choosing Lenses
Single vision, varifocals, reading lenses, thin lenses and more.
12 min read 06Lens Coatings Explained
Anti-reflection, scratch resistance, UV protection and what is worth paying for.
9 min read 07Frame Materials
Acetate, titanium, metal, TR90 and how each material feels and performs.
10 min read 08Virtual Try-On
How to use Virtual Try-On properly and what it can and cannot tell you.
7 min read 09Varifocal Lenses Explained
How varifocals work, who they suit and what to know before ordering.
11 min read 10Prescription Sunglasses Guide
Clear vision, UV protection, tint choices and sunglass lens options explained.
10 min read 11Photochromic Lenses Explained
Clear indoors, darker outdoors and when they do or do not replace sunglasses.
9 min read 12Polarised Lenses Explained
How polarised lenses reduce glare for driving, water and bright outdoor conditions.
8 min read 13Blue Light Glasses: Facts vs Myths
An honest guide to blue light lenses, screen comfort and digital eye strain.
9 min read 14High Index Lenses Explained
1.60, 1.67 and 1.74 lenses explained, including when thinner lenses are worth it.
10 min read 15Single Vision Lenses Explained
Distance, reading and computer lenses explained in simple, practical terms.
9 min readNeed Personal Advice?
Ask Scott
Unsure about your prescription, frame size or lens choice? Get expert help before you order.