“I rely on my eyesight for everything”: TV’s Kate Bliss on valuing vision, staying well and why eye health matters

Antiques expert Kate Bliss is best known for her appearances on Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, but away from the cameras, she’s been reflecting on the value of something we too often take for granted— our eyesight. 

As she supports the launch of SpaMedica’s new ophthalmic diagnostic and treatment centre in her home county of Herefordshire – and with June marking Cataract Awareness Month – Kate shares how vision plays a vital role in her work, family life and wellbeing—along with simple tips for protecting our sight as we age.

Q: How important is eyesight in your work as an antiques expert? 

Kate: It’s absolutely essential. I rely on my vision to spot tiny details—a hallmark on a piece of silver, a flaw in a gemstone, or subtle wear that hints at a piece’s age. Even a microscopic inscription can completely change an item’s value. Without sharp eyesight, I simply couldn’t do my job. 

Q: Have you ever had a moment where good vision was make or break in a valuation? 

Kate: Yes! A client brought me a diamond and wasn’t sure whether it was natural or lab-grown. I was able to spot a tiny mark on the girdle of the stone—almost invisible to the naked eye—which confirmed it was lab-grown. That changed the value significantly. It just shows how critical vision is in my profession. 

Q: What do you do to take care of your eyes? 

Kate: I’ve always taken eye health seriously, especially with glaucoma in my family. I have regular eye tests and recently got bifocals, which have been a game-changer—especially at auctions, where I need to see my notes and spot bidders at the same time! I wear glasses more and more now, and I’m proud of it. 

Q: What would you say to people who haven’t had their eyes tested in years? 

Kate: Go and get checked! You might not even realise how much you’re missing. Especially if you spend a lot of time on screens, your eyes are working hard and need looking after. A simple eye test could make a huge difference to your comfort and confidence. And with Cataract Awareness Month coming up in June, it’s a great reminder to prioritise our sight—especially if you’ve noticed changes in your vision or are aged over 60. 

Q: What are your thoughts on ageing and wellbeing? 

Kate: As I’ve got older, I’ve learned to prioritise my health and mental wellbeing more. We’re all so busy that we put ourselves last, but if we don’t look after ourselves, we really feel the consequences. I’ve seen family members lose independence because of sight loss, and it’s heartbreaking—something like cataract surgery can literally give someone their life back. 

Q: What inspired you to support the new eye care centre in Hereford? 

Kate: I love Herefordshire—it’s my home, and we’re a rural county with many people who struggle to access healthcare easily. The new SpaMedica centre is a fantastic resource that will make a real difference. Shorter waiting times, free transport for those who need it—it’s going to change lives. 

Q: And finally—what’s your perfect vision for a day off in Herefordshire? 

Kate: A proper stomp through the countryside, followed by a big slice of cake in a cosy farm café. I love the mix of nature and heritage we have here. To me, that’s heaven!