Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate patient perspectives on attending pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). This qualitative case study identifies the benefits and challenges to attending PR and presents areas of improvements as recommended by patients. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative case study of a UK case study based on a PR programme based on undertaking focus groups (n=3) and interviews (n=15) with current and former patients. Findings The findings report patient perspectives of the challenges and benefits of attending a PR programme along with recommendations on how the service could be improved. Research limitations/implications The authors focussed solely on a UK PR programme, so the findings might not be applicable to other countries if PR is organised and provided in a unique way or setting. Practical implications This paper provides valuable insights to patient perspectives offrom patients attending PR programmes, which are useful to those running and designing these services. Originality/value The findings identify the benefits and challenges for patients attending PR programmes and suggest areas where improvements can be made.