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Guides · Endoscopy

Private colonoscopy and gastroscopy: what to expect

Both are day-case endoscopic tests. The private price is only comparable when you know whether sedation, biopsies and the report are inside it.

Updated 9 Nov 2026

A colonoscopy looks at the large bowel. A gastroscopy (upper gastrointestinal endoscopy) looks at the oesophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. Hospitals sell them as diagnostic tests; removing polyps or taking samples can change the fee.

Before the day

Colonoscopy needs bowel preparation: a restricted diet and strong laxatives. The hospital sends instructions; follow them carefully or the test may be incomplete. Gastroscopy usually needs a period of fasting. Tell the team about medicines, allergies and previous sedation. Most private hospitals want a specialist consultation first; ask whether that fee is separate.

Published prices

Published diagnostic prices checked on 9 November 2026 ranged from £2,170 to £3,635 for colonoscopy and from £1,869 to £2,995 for gastroscopy on our colonoscopy and gastroscopy pages. Combined packages and procedures that include polyp removal are often priced separately.

Ask in writing:

  • Is sedation included, or throat spray only for gastroscopy?
  • What happens to the price if a polyp is removed or a biopsy is taken?
  • Are laboratory fees for samples included?
  • How and when do you get the report, and is a results consultation included?

On the day

Both tests are usually day cases. With sedation you will need an adult to take you home and stay with you, and you should not drive for 24 hours or as advised. Without sedation, recovery is quicker but the test can be uncomfortable; the team will explain the options. You receive interim comments before leaving when that is possible; full results after biopsy analysis take longer.

The NHS route

Colonoscopy and gastroscopy are among the endoscopy tests in NHS England’s monthly diagnostics statistics (DM01). The summary figures trusts report group several endoscopy tests together, so a local “endoscopy” wait is not colonoscopy-only. We show the official grouped figure where we have it, and we say so on the page.

Not medical advice. This guide covers process, cost and how the NHS and private routes are organised. It does not say whether you need a test or treatment. Decisions about your care sit with you and a clinician who knows your history.

Not affiliated with the NHS. The Doctor is an independent publication. It is not part of, or endorsed by, the NHS, the Care Quality Commission or any provider listed. See our full notice.

Published prices: Colonoscopy prices. How we work: methodology.

Also see gastroscopy prices.

Sources checked for this guide