What are the opening hours?

Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5:30pm Friday 9am - 5:30pm Saturday 9am - 2pm

Cooper & Leatherbarrow Opticians

Home
United Kingdom
Darlington
Cooper & Leatherbarrow Opticians

Cooper & Leatherbarrow was established in 1902 by Ernest Cooper in a former photographer's business

20/03/2026

👁️✨ What is an Optomap examination - and why does it matter?

An Optomap exam allows us to capture a detailed, ultra-widefield digital image of the back of your eye in just seconds. It gives a much broader view of your retina than traditional methods - helping us see more, earlier.

What are the benefits?

🔎 Early detection
Optomap can help identify early signs of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal tears, and changes linked to diabetes or high blood pressure - often before symptoms appear.

📸 A wider view
It captures up to 80% of the retina in a single image, compared to a much smaller view with standard techniques.

🗂️ Ongoing monitoring
Because the image is stored digitally, we can compare results year on year to monitor even the smallest changes.

💡 Comfortable and convenient
The scan is quick, non-invasive, and usually doesn’t require dilating drops.

Your eye health is about more than just your prescription. Advanced imaging like Optomap helps us provide a deeper level of care and reassurance.

📞 If you’d like to include Optomap as part of your next eye examination, speak to the team at Cooper & Leatherbarrow when booking your appointment.

18/03/2026

👓✨ Bold. Creative. Unmistakably Dutz.

If you love eyewear that makes a statement, Dutz Eyewear is a brand worth discovering. Known for its vibrant colours, distinctive shapes, and attention to detail, Dutz combines Dutch design flair with everyday comfort.

These frames are designed for people who want something a little different — stylish without being over the top, expressive without losing wearability.

Why patients love Dutz:
• Eye-catching colour combinations
• Modern, flattering shapes
• Lightweight, comfortable designs
• Quality craftsmanship built to last

If you’re ready to refresh your look with frames that reflect your personality, ask our team to show you the Dutz collection next time you visit.

👁️ Style and clarity - all in one frame.

16/03/2026

👂✨ Hearing aids have come a long way.

If you’re picturing bulky, noticeable devices — think again. Modern hearing aids are smaller, smarter, and more discreet than ever before. Many are barely visible and designed to fit comfortably into everyday life.

Today’s technology can:
• Adapt automatically to different environments
• Reduce background noise
• Connect to your phone or television
• Deliver clearer, more natural sound

At Cooper & Leatherbarrow, we take the time to understand your lifestyle before recommending the right solution. From your initial hearing assessment to fitting and ongoing aftercare, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

If you’ve been putting off getting your hearing checked, now could be the right time.

Discover more > https://www.cooperandleatherbarrow.com/hearing-care

13/03/2026

👁️🌈 Did you know your eye colour can change as you get older?

It’s true, and it’s usually completely normal.

Eye colour is determined by the amount of melanin in your iris. In babies and young children, melanin levels can increase over time, which is why some children’s eyes darken as they grow.

In adults, changes are often subtle. Ageing can slightly affect pigmentation or how light reflects within the eye, making your eyes appear a little lighter or darker.

However, sudden or dramatic changes, especially in just one eye, should always be checked. Your eyes can reveal important clues about your overall health..

📞 If it’s been a while since your last eye test, contact Cooper & Leatherbarrow today and keep your eye health on track.

11/03/2026

👀 Struggling with reading, eye strain, or discomfort? Colour could help.

Some adults and children experience something called visual stress. This is when text seems to blur, move, or become tiring to read. This isn’t “just in your head”. It’s a real visual phenomenon many people don’t even realise they’re affected by.

At Cooper & Leatherbarrow, we offer Colorimetry assessments using a specialist Intuitive Colourimeter to find the exact colour tint that may reduce these symptoms. Precision-tinted lenses or overlays can make reading easier, reduce eye strain, and help you (or your child) focus with less fatigue.

✨ Whether it’s reading books, homework, or screen time at work, personalised colour solutions might be the extra support your eyes need.

📞 Get in touch to find out if a Colorimetry assessment could help you or your family > https://www.cooperandleatherbarrow.com/colorimetry

09/03/2026

👂 Blocked ears? Muffled hearing? It might just be ear wax.

A build-up of ear wax is one of the most common causes of temporary hearing loss — and it’s often quick and straightforward to treat.

At Cooper & Leatherbarrow, we offer a professional microsuction ear wax removal service, carried out in a safe, clinical setting by trained specialists. Microsuction is widely regarded as one of the safest and most effective methods of wax removal, using gentle suction rather than water irrigation.

People are often surprised at the difference it makes — clearer hearing, improved comfort, and relief from that blocked or “underwater” feeling.

As part of our wider hearing care services, we can also assess your hearing health and provide expert advice if you have ongoing concerns.

If your ears don’t feel quite right, don’t ignore it.

📞 Contact us to book your appointment and get back to hearing clearly again > https://www.cooperandleatherbarrow.com/hearing-care

05/03/2026

🐶 If even this little one knows the importance of the right glasses…

…when did you last check yours?

Driving isn’t just about reading number plates. It’s about depth perception, reaction time, contrast sensitivity, and spotting hazards quickly - especially in poor weather or low light.

Many people don’t realise their vision has changed until they’re already compensating. Leaning forward. Squinting. Avoiding night driving. Turning the radio down to “focus”.

A proper vision check-up gives you clarity and reassurance. It ensures your prescription is accurate and your lenses are working for the way you actually drive.

At Cooper & Leatherbarrow, we take the time to assess your vision thoroughly and advise on the best lens options for comfort, safety and confidence behind the wheel.

If you rely on your car every day, make sure you can rely on your eyesight too.

📞 Book your appointment today and let’s make sure you’re truly fit for the road.

03/03/2026

✨ Life is too short to experience the world without clarity. ✨

From the colours of spring flowers 🌸 to the smiles of the people you love 😊, clear vision helps you enjoy every moment to the fullest.

If things aren’t looking as sharp as they used to (or you’re finding yourself squinting, straining, or getting frequent headaches) it might be time for an eye examination.

At Cooper & Leatherbarrow, we provide:
👁️ Thorough, unhurried eye tests
👓 Personalised advice on glasses and lenses
💻 Support for screen-related eye strain
👂 Hearing care services for complete wellbeing

Seeing clearly isn’t just about convenience — it’s about comfort, confidence, and protecting your long-term eye health.

📞 Ready to bring things back into focus? Contact Cooper & Leatherbarrow today and let us help you see the world clearly again. 💙

01/03/2026

🌸 Hello March 🌸

A new month is a great reminder to look after your health - and that includes your eyes.

Clear, comfortable vision plays a big part in everyday life. From children learning at school, to busy professionals working on screens, to enjoying time outdoors as the days get brighter, healthy eyes matter at every stage of life.

At Cooper & Leatherbarrow, we’re here to support you with:

👁️ Comprehensive eye examinations
👓 Expert advice on glasses and lenses
💻 Support for screen-related eye strain
🧒 Children’s eye care
👂 Hearing care services, including hearing checks and ear wax removal

Regular eye tests don’t just check your prescription. They can also help detect early signs of eye conditions and wider health issues, often before symptoms become noticeable. Prevention and early detection are key to maintaining long-term eye health.

As we move into a new season, if it’s been a while since your last eye test, it may be time to book in and give your eyes the care they deserve.

🌿 Our friendly team is always here to help. Reach out to us today > https://www.cooperandleatherbarrow.com/

27/02/2026

Dry eyes can be a major problem during the winter months ❄

But don't worry 🚨

We've got some tips to keep your peepers hydrated and happy 👇

✅ Blink, blink, blink! Make sure to blink regularly to keep your eyes moist
✅ Drink up! Staying hydrated can help prevent dry eyes.
✅ Avoid dry environments. If you're in a room with a fan or air conditioning, try using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
✅ Protect your eyes from the elements. When you're outside, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind and sun.
✅ Give your eyes a break. If you spend a lot of time staring at screens, take regular breaks to give your eyes a chance to rest and blink.

Follow these tips and you'll be well on your way to comfortable, healthy eyes.

Happy blinking 👀

25/02/2026

3 signs you (probably) should book in for an eye test 👀

1 - You cant remember the last time you had an eye test.
‘Ohh it was a few months ago, oh wait they were closed because of Lockdown’ then you realise lockdown was 2 years ago…

Just like a health check up, or trip to the dentist, if you can’t remember the last time you had an eye scan, it’s probably time for one.

2 - You are at higher risk of eye disease
We’re all born different - and some of us are (unfortunately) more susceptible to developing eye tests. Some of these causes could be:
👉 History of eye disease in the family
👉 You wear contact lenses
👉 Have a job/lifestyle where you are staring at monitor(s) all day
👉 Have had eye surgery in the past

3 - ‘Is that just me or…’
If you ever look at something and start a sentence like that… this is a sign your eyesight is deteriorating.

Whether something looks blurry, the colours don’t look right, make sure to get checked out.

No matter what your conditions, get booked in at your local branch and our friendly team will make sure you get the diagnosis you need, and the treatment you deserve > https://www.cooperandleatherbarrow.com/

23/02/2026

Do you find yourself staring at screens all day, every day?

We get it - screens are an essential part of many of our working lives these days.

But all that screen time can lead to some not-so-fun side effects, like eye strain and fatigue.

Here are some tips to help reduce the impact of screens on your eyes:

👉 Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away
👉 Blink frequently to keep your eyes moist and reduce dryness
👉 Adjust your screen's brightness and contrast to a comfortable level
👉 Use a screen filter to reduce blue light exposure, which has been linked to eye strain
👉 Consider taking regular breaks from screens to give your eyes a much-needed rest

If you’re still having trouble with your eyes, drop us a message or give us a call.

One of our friendly experts will be able to help you out 😃

Address

10 Duke Street
Darlington
DL37AF

Opening Hours

Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5:30pm
Friday	9am - 5:30pm
Saturday	9am - 2pm

Website

https://cooperandleatherbarrow.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Cooper & Leatherbarrow Opticians posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Cooper & Leatherbarrow Opticians:

Shortcuts

Want your practice to be the top-listed Clinic in Darlington?