How much does private physio cost in London?
Based on published prices from 20 London clinics, checked 14 September 2026.
Medically reviewed by Harvir Ubhi, Chartered HCPC Physiotherapist
Last reviewed: 15 September 2026
The short answer: a first physio session in London typically costs £85–£125 and lasts 45–60 minutes. Follow-up sessions run £65–£95 for 30 minutes. A full course for back pain or sciatica — usually 5 to 6 sessions — works out to roughly £400–£475 at typical London prices, though it can range from £300 to £600.
What London clinics actually charge
We checked published self-pay prices at 20 London physio clinics across Central, North, South, East, and West London.
First appointment
| Area | Price range | Session length |
|---|---|---|
| South London | £70–£95 | 30–45 min |
| East London | £73–£105 | 30–60 min |
| North London | £85–£150 | 30–60 min |
| West London | £85–£130 | 30–60 min |
| Central London | £90–£130 | 30–60 min |
| National chains (inside M25) | £72–£79 | up to 45 min |
Across all 20 clinics: range £70–£130. Median £100. Average £105.
Follow-up sessions (30 minutes)
| Area | Price range |
|---|---|
| South London | £70–£80 |
| East London | £75–£80 |
| North London | £55–£85 |
| West London | £90–£120 |
| Central London | £75–£95 |
Across all 20 clinics: range £55–£120. Median £80. Average £82.
How these compare to the UK average
The HMDG UK Private Practice Barometer 2026 (336 clinics surveyed) found:
- London average first appointment: £84
- UK median first appointment: £74
- UK median follow-up: £63
Our 20-clinic sample averages higher at £105 because clinics that publish prices online tend to be more established and premium. A smaller practice may charge less. Always ask.
What a full course actually costs
For back pain or sciatica, a typical course is 5 to 6 sessions: one initial assessment plus four or five follow-ups.
| Price | Sessions | Subtotal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| First appointment | £100 | 1 | £100 |
| Follow-up (30 min) | £80 | 4 | £320 |
| Typical 5-session course | £420 | ||
| Typical 6-session course | £500 |
The biggest variable isn't the per-session price — it's how many sessions you need.
What makes one clinic more expensive
Session length matters more than postcode
The cheapest first appointment is £70 for 30 minutes. The most expensive is £130 for 60 minutes — roughly the same rate per minute. Always compare price for the same session length.
Clinician seniority drives price
- Standard physiotherapist: £85–£100
- Senior physiotherapist: £100–£130
- Clinical specialist or director: £140–£180
How to pay less
- Check what your physiotherapy insurance cover actually includes. Most private health policies (Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, WPA) cover physio, and many London clinics are Bupa approved physiotherapist practices that bill your insurer directly. Check for session limits and whether you need a GP referral.
- Ask about prepaid packages. Many clinics offer 4–6 session blocks at £5–£10 off per session.
- Use the NHS. Free, and you can often self-refer without seeing a GP. See our NHS waiting times guide.
- Go private alongside the NHS. Using private healthcare does not affect your NHS waiting list position.
- Ask about reduced rates. Some clinics offer discounts for students, NHS workers, or people on low incomes.
- Check your employer. Some employee assistance programmes cover a few sessions a year.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for private physio?
No. You can book directly with any private physiotherapist. You only need a referral if your health insurance policy requires one.
Is private physio worth the money?
Private physio means being seen quickly (often within days), longer appointments, and usually seeing the same physiotherapist each time. If you're in pain and struggling to work or sleep, getting seen in days rather than months is often worth it. If you can manage the wait, NHS physio provides the same clinical care at no cost.
How many sessions will I need?
For a straightforward muscle strain, 3–4 sessions. For back pain, sciatica, or a joint problem, 5–6 is typical. Your physio should give you an expected treatment plan after the first session.
Why is the first session more expensive?
It's longer (45–60 minutes vs 30 for follow-ups) because it includes a full assessment: your history, physical examination, diagnosis, and the start of treatment.
Can I see a private physio while on the NHS waiting list?
Yes. The Department of Health is clear: using private healthcare does not affect your position on any NHS waiting list.
Are online physio sessions cheaper?
Sometimes — typically £10–£20 less. Online works well for advice and exercise prescription, but a hands-on assessment usually needs to be in person.
Not sure who to see?
Tell us your symptoms and budget. We'll match you with the right London physio — free, no obligation.
Get matched free →Sources: published prices from 20 London clinic websites (checked 14 Sep 2026), NHS physiotherapy service search, HMDG UK Private Practice Barometer 2026 (336 clinics surveyed Aug–Nov 2025), NHS England guidance on private care alongside NHS treatment.