The following are a list of databases to help you find patents.
The patent database from the European Patent Office which gives full-text access to world-wide patents.
The powerful google search engine but restricted to the patent literature. Offers full-text access to worldwide patents.
The database from the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) which allows you to check the status and access information on UK patent applications.
If you know a patent exists, the easiest way to search for it is via the patent number. When searching by patent number do not add the punctation - just use the number.
The two main databases shown on the left offer a search of worldwide patents, and so you will see patents from all over the world. Depending on what you are looking for you may find it useful to limit your search to any or all of the following facets: