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Dr Alan Watson

MA MB BChir PHD RCPathME FRCP

Gastroenterologist

27 years of experience

Essex, IG9 5HX

(+4 more)

42 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Dr Henry Grundy-Wheeler, Dr Ali Mohammed and 20 other professionals

4.98

/5

(243 reviews)

27 years of experience

Essex, IG9 5HX

(+4 more)

42 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Dr Henry Grundy-Wheeler, Dr Ali Mohammed and 20 other professionals

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
Skill Endorsements
Colonoscopy
121
11
Endoscopy (OGD)
61
11
Gastroenterology
50
6

Contact

Book


Expert in:

About Dr Alan Watson

Thank you for considering me to assist with your medical care. My aim is to ensure you receive excellent care, with kindness, expertise and great communication. This is backed up by my full time private office, regular clinics and easy access to all you might need.

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Dr. Alan Watson is a highly respected senior Consultant Gastroenterologist, specialising in the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract and liver. He has advanced skills in endoscopy and colonoscopy and is an accredited bowel cancer screening expert.

He has practiced as a Consultant at Barts Health for 15 years and has deveopled a thriving private practice for over a decade, offering expert care to a wide range of patients.

Dr. Watson graduated with distinction from Cambridge University and completed his training in leading teaching hospitals in the UK, Europe and the USA.

With extensive experience in performing advanced endoscopic examinations, Dr. Watson ensures minimal discomfort for patients, using techniques to resolve issues that once required surgery. His expertise in gastroscopy and colonoscopy allows him to provide highly effective, non-invasive treatments that improve patient outcomes. Dr Watson is a specialist in endoscopy and colonoscopy, with specialist accreditation as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.

His commitment to medical excellence extends beyond clinical practice—he also contributed to groundbreaking research during his PhD Fellowship at Cancer Research UK, publishing in prestigious medical journals such as *Nature Medicine* and *Nature*. He continues to be active in research, teaching and clinical audit.

On a more personal note, Dr. Watson's passion for challenge and perseverance shines through in his remarkable achievements. At Cambridge University, he competed in and won the prestigious Boat Race. He has also raised significant funds for charity by rowing across the Atlantic Ocean and ultra-marathon running. His dedication to others, both in and out of the medical field, reflects his genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

Dr. Watson’s combination of professional expertise, compassionate care, and personal determination makes him a truly exceptional doctor who always goes the extra mile for his patients.

--


Subspecialties

  • Neuro-Gastroenterology
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) such as ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease
  • Hepatology
  • General (Internal) Medicine
  • Pancreaticobiliary Medicine (Bile Ducts & Pancreas)

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
(371)
Skill Endorsements
(76)

Click the bar to read reviews or skill endorsements

Colonoscopy
121
11
Endoscopy (OGD)
61
11
Gastroenterology
50
6
Acid Reflux (Heartburn)
34
7
Bloating
17
1
Blood Testing and Results Interpretation
17
Gastroscopy
12
1
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
8
4
Stomach / Abdominal Pain
7
4
Bowel Cancer Screening
11
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) or Reflux
9
Constipation
8
Reflux and Colic
5
Heart Burn
4
1
Anal Fissure
1
4
Liver Function Tests
4
1
Colon Polyps
5
Colitis (Ulcerative Colitis)
3
1
Upper Gastrointestinal Conditions (Oesophagus & Stomach)
2
2
Gastrointestinal Cancers
4
Diarrhoea
3
1
Crohn's Disease
4
Sigmoidoscopy
3
Diverticulitis
3
Dyspepsia (Indigestion)
1
2
Barrett's Oesophagus
1
2
Colorectal Cancer
3
Functional Gut
3
Haemorrhoids
2
Pancreatic Disorders
2
Food Intolerance
1
1
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
2
Colon Cancer Screening
1
1
Diverticular Disease
1
1
Gallbladder Polyp
2
Bile Acid Malabsorption
1
1
Hepatitis
1
Coeliac Disease
1
Hiatus Hernia
1
Gallstones
1
Weight Loss
1
Pancreatitis
1
Oesophagitis
1
Oesophageal Spasm
1
Faecal Incontinence
1
Bowel Cancer
1
Jaundice
1
Liver Disease
1
Hepatocellular Carcinoma
1
GORD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
1
Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
1
BRAVO Capsule
1
Iron Deficiency Anaemia
1
Gallbladder Disease
1
Nausea and Vomiting
1
Hepatitis (Viral)
1
Alcohol Related Liver Problems
1
Cholecystitis
1
Microscopic Colitis
1
Sedation
1
Swallowing Disorder (Dysphagia)
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Rectal Bleeding
Oesophageal Cancer
LPR Reflux
Gut Health
Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Gastroparesis
Gut Microbiome
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
Reflux
Stomach (Gastric) Cancer
Swollen Stomach
Pyloric Stenosis
Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Haemochromatosis
Gluten Intolerance
Autoimmune Hepatitis
Functional Bowel Disease
Gallbladder Cancer
Gastritis
Alcohol-Related Liver Disease
Eosinophilic Oesophagitis
Cirrhosis
Autoimmune Diseases
Colonic Stent
Enteroscopy
Gastrostomy-Jejunostomy Tube Insertion
Gastric (Stomach) Ulcers
Oesophageal Stent Insertion
Stool Testing
Weight Loss Programme
Fatty Liver Disease
Video Consultation
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)
Chest X-Ray
Tiredness (Fatigue)
Enteral Feeding
Liver Screening (Risk Stratification)
Bile Duct Diseases
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Pancreatitis
Chest Infection
Acute Liver Failure
Allurion Gastric Balloon
Achalasia

Registered with

General Medical Council

No. 4583761

Royal College of Physicians

No. 4583761

The Royal College of Pathologists

No. 4583761


Education

University of Cambridge

Neurophysiology

Graduated 1996

University of Cambridge

Medicine

Graduated 1998

University College London, University of London

Cancer stem cell biology

Graduated 2009


Qualifications

MB BChir 1998 University of Cambridge with distintion.

Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD) Universty College, London

Specialist Registration in Gastroenterology & Generlal (internal) medicine.

Elected Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians

Elected Member of the Royal College of Pathologists


Languages spoken

  • English

Insurers

  • Bupa Fee Assured
  • The PHC
  • National Friendly
  • General and Medical
  • Simply Health (Dental)
  • Saga Health Insurance
  • The Exeter
  • Cigna
  • Bupa
  • Aetna
  • Benenden Health
  • Freedom Health Insurance
  • WPA
  • Healix Health Services
  • AXA Health
  • Vitality
  • Aviva Health
  • Allianz Worldwide Care

Fees

  • New appointment

    £299
  • Follow-up appointment

    £225
*May vary on location

Locations

Nuffield Health The Holly Hospital

High Road Buckhurst Hill, Essex, United Kingdom, IG9 5HX

4.88(2138 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday
13:00 - 16:30
Tuesday
15:00 - 19:30
Wednesday
13:00 - 15:30
Thursday
08:30 - 12:30
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Facilities

Wheelchair Accessible
Free Parking
View practice profile

Opening hours

Monday
13:00 - 16:30
Tuesday
15:00 - 19:30
Wednesday
13:00 - 15:30
Thursday
08:30 - 12:30
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Facilities

Wheelchair Accessible
Free Parking
View practice profile

Rivers Hospital

High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth, United Kingdom, CM21 0HH

4.93(856 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
08:30 - 12:00
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Phoenix Hospital Chelmsford

Essex Healthcare Park, West Hanningfield Road, Chelmsford, United Kingdom, CM2 8FR

4.86(115 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
09:45 - 12:30
Saturday
Sunday

Whipps Cross University Hospital

Whipps Cross Road Leytonstone, London, United Kingdom, E11 1NR

0.00(0 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday - Friday
Saturday
Sunday

LSDC Healthcare

23 Widegate St, London, United Kingdom, E1 7HP

4.89(9 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday - Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Facilities

Paid Parking
View practice profile

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
Skill Endorsements
Colonoscopy
121
11
Endoscopy (OGD)
61
11
Gastroenterology
50
6

Contact

Book

Reviews

AI Review Summary

This summary was created by AI based on recent reviews

Dr Alan Watson is professional, reassuring, kind, friendly, and understanding with patients. Patients report excellent experiences during procedures such as colonoscopy and endoscopy, feeling at ease and comfortable from clear explanations provided before, during, and after treatment. Dr Watson takes time to listen, answers all questions, and demonstrates extensive knowledge and a comprehensive approach to care, which patients praise. Patient feedback highlights positive outcomes for gastrointestinal conditions and his expertise in procedures like colonoscopy and endoscopy.

5
verified patient
31 Mar 2026

Dr Watson, is extremely professional and approachable. He is always more than happy to answer any queries you may have, which he explains clearly and with understanding. I would have no hesitation in recommending him.

5
verified patient
30 Mar 2026

From the minute I arrived for my colonoscopy , I was treated with great courtesy , all the staff were very friendly , helpful and I felt completely at ease in their care . Explanations were given as to what was going to happen and this very much put me at my ease . Dr Watson was friendly which also put me at my ease and it was very much 5 star treatment .

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
30 Mar 2026

I was nervous but Dr Watson and his team made me feel very confident and comfortable about the procedure for which I thank them very much.

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
30 Mar 2026

I rate my recent visit 10/10 d the doctor and nurses where very caring talked me through the procedure I couldn’t had better care top marks for the nhs

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
30 Mar 2026

The most personable and respectful team. Clearly explaining every step of the procedure

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
27 Mar 2026

I cannot praise nor recommend Dr Alan Watson highly enough. As a very anxious patient, he put me at ease immediately and listened to all of my concerns. I was treated with nothing but kindness, compassion and understanding throughout my appointment and came away feeling so much calmer and reassured.

5
verified patient
26 Mar 2026

Dr Alan was extremely professional - patient, kind, and genuinely understanding. He immediately put me at ease and made the whole experience feel comfortable. His knowledge is outstanding, and he has an ability to explain processes and diagnoses in a way that’s clear and easy to understand. Thank you Dr Alan.

5
verified patient
23 Mar 2026

All went well and good service. If there is a delay in the procedure, patient’s preparation can also be delayed.

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
17 Mar 2026

I underwent an endoscopy and Dr Watson was extremely gentle

Patient seen for:
5
verified patient
16 Mar 2026

I would highly recommend Dr Watson for any gastrointestinal problems. From the first meeting with Dr Watson he was very professional and knowledgeable while showing great empathy and understanding. I immediately felt comfortable talking about my problems even though the subject can be embarrassing, he made me feel it was just a normal everyday conversation. I choose to see Dr Watson on his past reviews and I can honestly say they were all right and I made the right choice.

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Skill Endorsements

I have referred patients requiring specialist gastroenterology input, as well as broader general medical opinions, to Dr Alan Watson for many years. He is an outstanding consultant who consistently provides the highest standard of care to his patients.

14 Jan 2026
Endorsed for
Gastroenterology
Gastrointestinal Cancers
Upper Gastrointestinal Conditions (Oesophagus & Stomach)

Dr Henry Grundy-Wheeler

Dr Henry Grundy-Wheeler

General Practitioner
I have looked after their patients

Dr Watson is an excellent gastroenterologist colleague who I worked over 10 years time. Dr Watson has very sound and reliable opinion in all gastrointestinal problems.

19 May 2025
Endorsed for
Reflux and Colic
Anal Fissure

Dr Ali Mohammed

Dr Ali Mohammed

Respiratory Doctor
Is a colleague

Dr Watson is a highly experienced gastroenterologist to whom I refer patients regularly. He is highly regarded by patients and colleagues alike. Strongly recommended.

06 May 2025
Endorsed for
Reflux and Colic
Anal Fissure

Mr Max Whittaker

Mr Max Whittaker

ENT Surgeon
Is a colleague

20 Apr 2025
Endorsed for
Reflux and Colic
Anal Fissure

DB

Dr Daniel Broman

Sport & Exercise Medicine Doctor
I have referred patients to them
Dr Alan Watson logo

Get to know Dr Alan Watson

FAQ

What are Dr Alan Watson's reviews like?

Dr Alan Watson's overall patient rating is 4.98 out of 5 stars on Doctify. This is based on 243 reviews.

What languages does Dr Alan Watson speak?

Dr Alan Watson speaks English

Where is Dr Alan Watson located?

Dr Alan Watson primarily practices at Nuffield Health The Holly Hospital, located at High Road Buckhurst Hill, Essex, United Kingdom, IG9 5HX
See more locations

What are Dr Alan Watson working hours?

Dr Alan Watson is working Monday (13:00 - 16:30), Tuesday (15:00 - 19:30), Wednesday (13:00 - 15:30), Thursday (08:30 - 12:30, 08:30 - 12:00), Friday (09:45 - 12:30)

Find where Dr Alan Watson operates today

Does Dr Alan Watson accept new patients?

Dr Alan Watson generally accepts new patients.

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