Free Online Patience for British Players

Welcome to the United Kingdom's premier free online Patience game! Whether you're enjoying a cuppa on a rainy afternoon, taking a break at the office, or relaxing on the sofa, our classic card game is here for you. No downloads, no registration - just traditional British gaming at its finest.

The British Tradition of Patience

In Britain, we've always called this classic card game "Patience" - a name that perfectly captures the thoughtful, methodical nature of the game. While Americans popularised the term "Solitaire," the British name dates back to the Victorian era when the game first gained popularity in English parlours and drawing rooms.

  • Perfect companion for your afternoon tea break
  • Ideal for those classic British rainy days indoors
  • Works wonderfully on mobile during your commute
  • A proper way to exercise the mind
  • No fuss, no adverts interrupting your game

History of Patience in Britain

Patience games became fashionable in Britain during the 19th century, imported from France where they were known as "reussites." Queen Victoria herself was reportedly fond of card games, and Patience became a respectable pastime for ladies and gentlemen alike.

The game truly entered British popular culture when it was included with Microsoft Windows in the 1990s, though by then generations of Britons had already learned the game with physical playing cards. Today, millions of people across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland enjoy Patience in its digital form.

Game Modes: Turn 1 vs Turn 3

Our online Patience offers both Klondike variations. Simply use the toggle above the game board to switch between modes at any time.

Turn 1 Mode (Thoughtful Play)

Turn over one card at a time from the stock pile. This mode offers a more relaxed experience with a higher win rate - perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying during your lunch hour.

Turn 3 Mode (Traditional Challenge)

The classic way to play Klondike Patience. Draw three cards at a time but only the top card is playable. This mode requires genuine strategy and planning ahead - proper mental exercise for those who enjoy a challenge.

How to Play Patience

The Setup

A standard pack of 52 playing cards is dealt into seven columns called the tableau. The first column contains one card, the second two, and so forth up to seven cards in the final column. Only the top card of each column is face-up. The remaining cards form the stock.

Patience card game layout

Card Movement

Build tableau columns in descending order with alternating colours. For instance, place a black eight upon a red nine. Only Kings may be moved to empty columns. Foundation piles are built by suit from Ace through to King.

Benefits of Playing Patience

This classic British pastime offers numerous benefits:

  • Sharpens concentration and attention to detail
  • Exercises memory and logical thinking
  • Provides a calming, meditative experience
  • Offers a welcome break from the stresses of modern life
  • Keeps the mind active at any age

Tips for British Players

Whether you learnt Patience from your grandparents or you're discovering it for the first time, these tips will help you succeed:

  • Always uncover face-down cards when the opportunity arises
  • Don't be hasty moving cards to foundations - they may prove useful in the tableau
  • Creating an empty column for Kings is often the key to success
  • Use the Undo function to explore different strategies
  • Approximately 80% of deals are winnable with optimal play

Play Across the United Kingdom

Our Patience game works perfectly whether you're in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, or Belfast. It's optimised for all devices and screen sizes, and loads quickly even on slower broadband connections. Simply bookmark this page and you're ready to play whenever the mood strikes.

How to Play Solitaire (Video Tutorial)

How to play Klondike Solitaire video tutorial