So, you clicked on this because you’re looking for some period dramas to watch, right? I get it—it can be overwhelming with so many options out there.
Trust me, I’ve been there. Period dramas are so good, but which ones are actually worth your time? Honestly, it depends on what you’re into. Do you love the grit and battles of medieval times? The romance and drama of the Victorian era? Or are you all about royal scandals? There’s something for everyone.
For me, it all started with Downton Abbey. I had no idea how hooked I’d get, but after that, I couldn’t stop. One show led to another, and soon I was diving into all kinds of British period dramas. Now I’m obsessed—there’s just something so cozy and binge-worthy about escaping into these beautiful, dramatic worlds.
If you’re ready to dive in, I’ve got you. Here are 15 must-watch British period dramas on Netflix that are totally worth your time. Trust me, you’re going to love them!
Downton Abbey
The series is set on the fictional Yorkshire estate of Downton Abbey between 1912 and 1926. It follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants, showing how major events of the time shape their lives and change British society.
The series stars Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, and Elizabeth McGovern.
Peaky Blinders
Set in post-WWI Birmingham, this gripping drama follows the Shelby family and their rise in the criminal underworld, with Cillian Murphy delivering a powerful performance as Thomas Shelby.
Victoria
Okay, you may want to get cozy before you delve into Victoria. It tells the story of Princess Alexandrina’s world changes completely when she becomes Queen Victoria at just 18 years old. Played brilliantly by Jenna Coleman, Victoria navigates the challenges of ruling a nation while balancing her roles as a wife and mother.
The Last Kingdom
Adapted from Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories, this historical epic is set during the Viking Age. It follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg as he navigates loyalty, identity, and survival in a world torn between Saxons and Danes.
The English Game
Two 19th-century footballers from opposite sides of the class divide struggle with personal and professional challenges to change the game forever—and England itself.
Death Comes to Pemberley
Elizabeth and Darcy, now six years married, are preparing for their annual ball when festivities are brought to an abrupt halt. An adaptation of PD James’s homage to Pride and Prejudice.
Lady Macbeth on Netflix
Inspired by Nikolai Leskov’s novella Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk District, this period drama centers on Katherine, a young bride in 19th-century England, trapped in a stifling marriage. Florence Pugh delivers a mesmerizing performance in this tale of rebellion and passion.
The Wonder
Haunted by her past, a nurse travels from England to a remote Irish village in 1862 to investigate a young girl’s supposed miraculous fasting. Oscar nominee Florence Pugh stars in this drama, directed by Sebastián Lelio, based on Emma Donoghue’s novel.
Netflix The Dig
Starring Carey Mulligan and Ralph Fiennes, The Dig recounts the 1939 Sutton Hoo excavation, one of Britain’s most significant archaeological discoveries.
Gunpowder
This historical miniseries delves into the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605, led by Guy Fawkes and Robert Catesby. Starring Kit Harington, it also features Peter Mullan, Mark Gatiss, Liv Tyler, and Shaun Dooley.
BBC’s Dracula
In 1897 Transylvania, the blood-drinking Count draws his plans against Victorian London.
Sense and Sensibility
Sense and Sensibility (1995), directed by Ang Lee, follows the Dashwood sisters—practical Elinor (Emma Thompson) and emotional Marianne (Kate Winslet)—as they navigate love, heartbreak, and financial hardship in 18th-century England.
Netflix The Crown
We’re all familiar with the much-debated Netflix series The Crown. While it’s not without controversy, the show presents a fictionalized account of the lives of the royal family. Though not strictly a period drama, The Crown offers a sweeping depiction of modern British history through the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
Poldark
Ross Poldark (played by Aidan Turner) returns from the American Revolutionary War to find his father dead, his estate in ruins, and his lover, Elizabeth (Heida Reed), engaged to another man. As he grapples with these challenges, Ross begins the slow and steady journey to rebuild his life in this gripping drama.
1917
The film 1917 is a critically acclaimed war drama directed by Sam Mendes, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Krysty Wilson-Cairns. The story is inspired by tales from Mendes’ grandfather, Alfred Mendes, who served in World War I and was released in late 2019.
the plot follows two soldiers assigned the task of delivering a critical message to another battalion, risking their lives for the job to prevent them from stepping right into a deadly ambush.
Here are 10 more British period dramas you’ll want to check out:
Pride and Prejudice (1995) – A classic! Watch Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s fiery romance unfold in this beautifully shot adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel.
The Durrells (2016 – 2019) – Set in 1930s Greece, this charming series follows the Durrell family as they escape dreary England and embark on a new, adventurous life full of laughter and love.
The Paradise (2012 – 2013) – A lush, romantic drama set in a grand department store in Victorian England, exploring ambition, love, and social class through the eyes of an ambitious young woman.
Jamestown (2017 – 2019) – Set in the early days of the English colony in America, this series follows three women who are among the first to arrive, navigating life and love in a wild, unsettled world.
Call the Midwife (2012 – Present) – Set in 1950s London, this heartwarming series follows a group of midwives navigating life, love, and challenges in the East End.
Lark Rise to Candleford (2008 – 2011) – Set in a small village in 19th-century England, this series follows the lives of the locals, blending humor, love, and the challenges of rural life.
Hinterland (2013 – 2016) – A moody, atmospheric crime drama set in Wales, combining beautiful landscapes with dark, gripping mysteries.
Indian Summers (2015 – 2016) – Set in 1932, this drama explores the last years of British colonial rule in India, full of political tension, secrets, and forbidden love.
Foyle’s War (2002 – 2015) – Set during and after WWII, this detective series follows DCS Foyle as he solves crimes in wartime England, offering a mix of mystery and historical drama.
The Last Kingdom (2015 – 2022) – Set in the 9th and 10th centuries, this epic drama follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon-born warrior raised by Vikings, as he navigates the tumultuous period of the Viking invasions of England. With political intrigue, fierce battles, and personal vendettas, it’s a thrilling ride for fans of historical drama like Poldark.