EYE TESTS IN Spennymoor
Looking to book an eye test near Spennymoor? Costspex welcomes you to our practice at Unit 41 Dragonville, Durham, DH1 2XU. We offer private eye tests and NHS sight tests for eligible patients.
Call 0191 386 3517 to arrange an appointment. Our team can explain the booking process, confirm fees and answer practical questions before you visit.
What Happens During an Eye Test?
An eye examination considers your vision and the health of your eyes. Your optometrist will ask about the reason for your visit, your general health, medication and any relevant family eye history. It helps to explain how you use your eyes at work and at home, especially if a particular task has become more difficult.
The examination includes checking your sight and assessing your eyes. Your optometrist decides which tests are appropriate for you and explains the findings and recommendations afterwards. These are established elements of an examination described in the College of Optometrists’ guidance.
If something is unclear, ask us to explain it again. You should leave understanding the advice you have been given and what to do next.
If you have a copy of your last prescription, please bring it with you.
If you have glasses, please bring them with you to your appointment.
Please remove your contact lenses before your appointment. We won't be able to test your eyes otherwise!
The eye test usually takes 20 to 25 minutes, but is tailored to each patient depending on our findings, for both single vision and multifocal.
Private Eye Tests and NHS Eligibility
If you are paying privately, contact us for the current eye-test fee and details of what is included. Ask about any additional services before agreeing to them so you know the cost in advance.
NHS-funded sight tests are available to eligible groups, including children under 16, people aged 16 to 18 in full-time education and adults aged 60 or over. Certain health conditions and financial circumstances can also qualify. The test must be clinically necessary.
Help with glasses has separate eligibility rules: qualifying for a free sight test does not automatically mean you qualify for an optical voucher. Read the NHS guide to free eye tests and optical vouchers for the full criteria, or ask our team before booking.
Ask About OCT Scanning
Costspex offers OCT scanning as an optional addition to your eye examination. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) uses advanced imaging technology to create detailed cross-sectional pictures of the structures inside your eyes, including the retina and optic nerve. This can help the optometrist identify changes that may not be visible during a standard eye test and monitor eye health over time.
OCT scanning is available at an additional charge, so please ask about the current price when arranging your appointment. Our team can explain what the scan involves, why it may be recommended, and how the results could support your eye care. Depending on your symptoms, medical history, age, or risk factors, the optometrist may suggest an OCT scan as part of a more detailed assessment. You are welcome to ask questions before deciding, and the scan will only be carried out with your agreement.
If you already have concerns about your vision, a family history of eye conditions, or a previous diagnosis requiring monitoring, mention this when booking. Costspex can advise whether OCT scanning may be suitable for you and help arrange the appropriate appointment.
Why Choose Costspex for Your Eye Test
Costspex welcomes patients from Spennymoor at our Durham practice, where our team can help with private eye tests and NHS sight tests for eligible patients. We take time to understand your needs, explain the examination and discuss the results clearly.
You can ask about optional OCT scanning, fees, NHS eligibility and what to bring before your appointment. Our team can also help you plan your visit, including access or communication requirements and any questions about glasses, contact lenses or reglazing.
Call 0191 386 3517 to arrange an appointment at Unit 41 Dragonville, Durham, DH1 2XU.
Local Durham Clinic
Conveniently based at Unit 41 Dragonville, right in the heart of Durham.
Personalised Service
We offer a personal, caring approach with no hard sell, taking the time to understand your needs.
Over a Century of Experience
Our team brings more than 100 years of combined optical experience to every appointment.
Rated 4.7 on Google
We are proud of our 4.7-star rating across 44 Google reviews, reflecting our commitment to great service.
After Your Eye Test
There is time to discuss what your results mean and whether you need a change to your glasses. You can ask about the recommendation and consider your options before making a purchase.
If you want new frames, explore our prescription glasses. If you would prefer to keep a pair you already own, ask whether our reglazing service could be suitable.
For an overview of our services, visit our opticians serving Spennymoor page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eye tests can raise practical questions, especially if you are visiting Costspex from Spennymoor. Below, we answer common questions about appointment length, recommended testing intervals, booking at our Durham practice and costs. If you need further information, get in touch and our team will be happy to help.
Our eye tests usually take around 20 to 25 minutes, although the examination is tailored to each patient. Ask how much time to allow for your whole visit, particularly if you are considering an additional scan or browsing glasses afterwards. You can book an eye test online or contact our team to discuss your appointment. If you need help choosing frames or lenses after your examination, ask about our glasses and contact lens services. We can also explain any optional tests, imaging or other services available before you attend, so you know what to expect and how long your visit may take.
The NHS recommends an eye test every two years, or more often if your optometrist advises it. Follow the interval recommended for you, particularly if you have an existing eye condition, wear glasses or contact lenses, or have a family history of eye disease. See the NHS guide to visiting an optician for further information. You can book your next eye test with our team, who can advise on suitable appointment times. If you are concerned about changes in your vision, do not wait for a routine reminder; contact us to discuss our eye-care services.
Yes. We welcome patients from Spennymoor at our Durham practice. Call to discuss availability and arrange a suitable appointment. Our team can provide directions, explain what to bring and answer questions about NHS or private appointments. During your visit, you can also ask about our glasses and contact lens services, including help choosing frames or discussing lens options. If you are travelling from Spennymoor and need an appointment for a child, an existing prescription or a specific concern, mention this when booking so we can allow appropriate time.
The eye test usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes, though this is tailored to each patient depending on what our team finds during the examination. This applies to both single vision and multifocal prescriptions. We never rush an appointment, so if more time is needed to discuss your results or explore your options, we will always take it.