Just finished binge-watching Bridgerton Season 3? Here's something to fill the void.
Long before the grandness of Downton Abbey, and well before Bridgerton captivated us with its vivid colours and daring romances. Even before The Buccaneers hooked us with its charming gentlemen, stirring our loyalties, there existed an era of television that skillfully crafted the nuances of period drama. These classic gems laid the foundation for the period pieces we adore today, with beloved actors in roles that might now seem uncharacteristically subdued.
Admittedly, under my snobbery, I'm just searching for something to satisfy my screen cravings as I await, the arrival of new seasons. So let's fill that void together and revisit the understated elegance of British period television that predates the modern era's taste for overt sensuality. Here is a list of timeless classics; British period TV shows that shouldn't be forgotten.
If you're anywhere else other than the UK get your VPN ready.
Table of Contents:
Cranford
This offers some real Call-The-Midwife trauma. Cranford is based on the works of Elizabeth Gaskell, combining her episodic novel of the same name, articles, and short stories including Mr. Harrison's Confessions and The Last Generation in England. Cranford explores the lives of widowed, unmarried, and elderly women who live comfortably in middle-class society. They survive and thrive on the "proper" and traditional ways of life, emphasizing the elegance of propriety and gentility.
But their traditions and small world are disrupted and tested by the arrival of new characters, the revolutionary prospects of the railway, and even the resurgence of lost love and family. It's hilarious as you watch these women, played by outstanding actors, navigate these changes. It's heartbreaking as they nostalgically revisit what could have been and crushing as beloved characters are lost. But it's hopeful as new love flourishes against the odds. With all of this, their friendship and kindness remain.
To name a few, witness Dame Judi Dench, Imelda Staunton, Claudie Blakely, Dame Eileen Atkins, Sir Michael Gambon, Jim Carter, and even Tom Hiddleston encapsulate empathy and community spirit, as they navigate life's challenges with kindness and a strong sense of togetherness in their quaint village.
Satisfaction Score: 10/10
A mini-series of 2 seasons, but it is sure to satisfy your period drama cravings with understated ambitions of finding love no matter what age or social standing. The cast is all perfection and familiarity as loveable and charming characters.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Apple TV
Amazon Prime
YouTube
Google Play Movies & TV
Subscriptions
Sky TV
BritBox
Free Trial
It's only a mini-series so try BritBox's 7-Day Free Trial
1995 Pride & Prejudice
Colin Firth, wet white shirt, Jane Austen romance. What a combination. It's such an adored scene, that it inspired Jonathan Bailey's wet shirt scene in Bridgerton. I don't believe there is any need for me to highlight the plot of Pride and Prejudice, because if you're here I assume you love it already.
Satisfaction Score: 10/10
This mini-series, spanning six episodes, provides a more in-depth and detailed exploration of the characters and narrative. Mrs. Bennet is markedly more pronounced in her annoying qualities in the series, a version of her that is harder to indulge, while Colin Firth's Mr Darcy says so much more in his adoring eye contact and body language which add a layer of enchantment. To provide an additional level of satisfaction this version of Pride and Prejudice ends with a dual wedding and even a kiss!
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on major streaming sites including:
Amazon Prime
Apple Tv
Subscriptions
Sky TV
Death Comes to Pemberley
I feared this may be some terrible trope on the classic Jane Austen novel of Pride and Prejudice. I was so wrong. It was exactly what I needed. Each year, I dedicate time to revisit the world of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, a tradition that involves re-reading the novel and watching both the 1995 mini-series and the 2005 film adaptations. This year, after completing my ritual, my longing persisted. Even viewing the alternative ending of the 2005 'Pride and Prejudice' film wasn't enough.
Death Comes to Pemberley gives us insight into life after Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy finally marry with a touch of darkness and a reminder of Mr. Whickham's wickedness. Death Comes to Pemberley is based on the mystery fiction written by P.D. James that continues Jane Austen's 1813 novel with a murder mystery.
Satisfaction Score: 9/10
Whether it's Kiera Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen or Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle, it can be hard to let go of the faces you've put to these characters, but Anna Maxwell Martin and Matthew Rhys do it so convincingly. With the addition of Matthew Goode, Jenna Coleman, Eleanor Tomlinson, and James Norton it can hardly be disappointing. However, nothing can quite compare to the original story when it comes to satisfying the senses.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Amazon Prime
YouTube
Google Play Movies & TV
Subscriptions
Sky TV
Free Trial
It's only a mini-series so try Masterpiece PBS
North and South
Between Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, we have a feast of romantic content to consume in books and adaptions. North and South is another Elizabeth Gaskell adaption of her 1855 novel of the same name. This story sees Margaret Hale and her family move from their idyllic country life in the south of England to an industrial town in the North. The family struggles to adapt to the cloud of industry, battling class and gender. Margaret struggles to reconcile her compassion for the mill workers while denying her growing attraction to John Thornton, the mill owner.
Satisfaction Score: 8/10
North and South captures the essence of a classic period drama as a tale of love and societal contrasts. Like Pride and Prejudice, the protagonists grapple with misconceptions and evolving feelings. North and South offers a blend of a passionate love story and social commentary.
Although it offers a realistic portrayal of 19th-century England, its heavy atmosphere and morally rigid protagonist might not resonate with everyone, particularly those seeking a more traditional, light-hearted romantic escape.
Where to Watch:
You can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Apple TV
Amazon Prime (Through BritBox)
Subscriptions
BritBox
Free Trial
Lark Rise to Candleford
Lark Rise to Candleford, like all these series, is adapted from an English novelist, specifically, Flora Thompson's trilogy of semi-autobiographical novels. This story is told through the eyes of Laura Timmins. Laura is a young girl from a small low-income English hamlet called Lark Rise, who is given the opportunity through her mother's cousin, to work in the wealthier and more established town of Candleford. Follow the daily lives of fieldworkers, craftsmen, gentry, and fiercely independent women who meet in friendship, love, rivalry, and neighborliness while finding connection and relatability in their similarities.
"You can't live your life with a fear of your own passions" Emma Timmins portrayed by Claudie Blakley
Satisfaction Score: 8/10
I loved seeing two actors who both portrayed characters in Pride & Prejudice come together. Beyond Julia Sawalha (Lydia Bennet in the 1995 television rendition) and Claudie Blakley (Charlotte Lucas in the 2005 film adaption), you have the chance to enjoy Downton Abbey's Brendan Coyle and Call the Midwife's Linda Bassett. You've got 4 full seasons with 10+ episodes per season (except for the last season) to indulge in.
With the amount of content to consume and an excellent cast to enjoy it's close to perfect. Unfortunately, some of these characters are hard to support, especially in the first season. Robert Timmin's, played by Brendan Coyle, righteousness is exhausting and the Miss Pratts couldn't be more unlikeable and snobby as the gossip mongers of the town, but they all grow on you as the seasons continue. The opening sequence, although it does not influence the story and production, is a little Elementary - nothing compared to the more enchanting opening sequence of Downton Abbey.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Amazon Prime (Through BritBox)
Apple TV
Google Play Movies & TV
YouTube
Subscriptions
Sky TV
Free Trial
Little Dorrit
As with any Charles Dickens story, Little Dorrit is filled with a plethora of weird and wonderful characters. Little Dorrit is based on a Charles Dickens novel of the same name. Amy Dorrit, played by the wonderful Claire Foy, is a kind, genuine, and innocent 21-year-old who finds great pride in caring for her family however she can and with little gratitude. Her employer's son, Arthur, played by the legendary Matthew Macfadyen, returns to England to discover how their families may be connected - revealing secrets, lost fortunes, and love.
Satisfaction Score: 8/10
The cast and acting make this series completely worthwhile. You'll adore Claire as Little Dorrit, rooting for her success and happiness, you'll admire Matthew Macfadyen as the selfless and generous Arthur Clenham, and you'll be completely surprised to find that your favourite character is Mr. Pancks played by Eddie Marsan. In between you'll discover familiar and beloved actors of classic period drams. So why not a 10/10? The ending came by too quickly and quite confusingly - leaving the build-up to a 'big secret' unsatisfying. And for any Charles Dicken fans, the story is not entirely accurate to the original tale.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on major streaming sites including:
Amazon Prime
Apple TV
Google Play Movies & TV
Subscriptions
Sky TV
Daniel Deronda
Daniel Deronda is an adaptation of the 1876 novel of the same name by George Elliot. We follow the stories of two different characters. Daniel, raised by his guardian under mysterious circumstances, rescues a young Jewish singer named Mirah, whom he helps promote and encourage despite the prevailing antisemitic prejudice. While helping Mirah find her family, he uncovers his origin story too. Parallel to Daniel, we follow Gwendolen Harleth, a spoilt young woman whose financial circumstances have forced her to marry rich or become a governess. She opts for the former and finds herself in an abusive, manipulative, and loveless marriage. These two characters find confidence and friendship in each other.
Satisfaction Score: 7/10
I think I may have a controversial opinion, and I have not read the book, but the characters were hard to support. While I loved Hugh Dancy as Daniel Deronda I found his love story less believable. Coupled with the spoilt Gwendolen played by Romola Garai, and the evil Henleigh Grandcourt played by Hugh Bonneville, I felt defeated by the ending, and never truly passionate about any character. The actors are brilliant and this is highly reviewed for satisfying the clothing and environment of the period.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Amazon Prime
Subscriptions
Sky TV
Bleak House
Charles Dickens strikes again. As with any Charles Dickens tale, Bleak House is brimming with a diverse array of eccentric and captivating characters. Based on the Dickens novel of the same name, Bleak House unravels the complex web of the English legal system and the lives entangled within it. The story centers on the kind-hearted and determined Esther Summerson, portrayed brilliantly by Anna Maxwell Martin. Esther, a young woman with a mysterious past, becomes the ward of the benevolent John Jarndyce, played by the incomparable Denis Lawson.
As the infamous and interminable court case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce drags on, secrets emerge, fortunes are contested, and a dark conspiracy threatens to unravel the lives of all involved. Through a blend of intrigue, tragedy, and dark humor, Bleak House offers a masterful exploration of human nature and society’s flaws.
Satisfaction Score: 8/10
The 2005 adaptation of Bleak House is a feast for period drama enthusiasts, bringing Dickens' intricate tale to life with top-notch production values and a meticulously crafted atmosphere. The use of natural lighting is particularly striking, enhancing the dreariness of the era and immersing viewers in the grim realities of 19th-century London. The cast delivers standout performances, from Gillian Anderson's heartbreaking portrayal of the conflicted Mrs. Dedlock to Charles Dance’s chilling Mr. Tulkinghorn. The sheer number of characters can be overwhelming, but the stellar acting and detailed set design make this adaptation a superb viewing experience, even for those who might find Dickens' novels daunting.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Amazon Prime
Middlemarch
As we venture on through our list you may discover that the last few may test your boundaries as to how "old" you can go. This is the oldest production on the list. This 1994 adaption is based on the George Elliot Novel of the same name. Although written in 1871 it is entirely relatable today as the characters are on the hunt for a purposeful and meaningful life.
"I have longed for such great purpose in my life which would give it shape and meaning" Dorothea Brooke portrayed by Juliet Aubrey
Satisfaction Score: 7/10
Discovering that Colin Firth had an actor brother was satisfactory enough. Beyond Jonathan Firth, Rufus Sewell, and some familiar faces like Robert Hardy (Harry Potter and Sense and Sensibility), and Elizabeth Spriggs (Harry Potter and Sense and Sensibility), it is a watch that requires focus, patience, and a little dedication to see you through it. If you haven't read the book it may appear dull as you may struggle to connect with a multitude of complex characters and follow along with the storyline in a series that has not aged as well as others.
Where to Watch:
For Free
For a fee per episode, you can watch it on any major streaming site including:
Amazon Prime
Apple TV
Subscriptions
Sky TV
The Way We Live Now
Greed, love, naivety, and lust come together in the TV adaption of Anthony Trollope's 1875 novel of the same name. Set in the 19th century, the story revolves around the rise and fall of the unscrupulous financier Augustus Melmotte, who arrives in London and quickly gains influence with his extravagant lifestyle and promises of immense wealth. As he manipulates the stock market and deceives investors, his actions have far-reaching effects on a diverse array of characters, including ambitious social climbers, disgraced aristocrats, and those seeking love and fortune. With themes of greed, corruption, and social ambition, you have a rich portrayal of Victorian society.
Satisfaction Score: 8/10
It will be hard to witness our beloved Matthew Macfadyen as such a spoilt, greedy, pathetic character, but, luckily the brilliant Cillian Murphy makes up for it as the charming and intelligent Paul Montague. This adaption was created by the same screenwriter of the 1995 adaption of Pride & Prejudice. You'll find frustration in characters like Mrs. Hurtle and tire quickly of her obviously put-on accent but relish seeing Marie Melmotte played by Shirley Henderson (Harry Potter's Moaning Myrtle). The cast is exceptional with familiar faces to be found. From Jim Carter (Downton Abbey) to David Suchet (Poirot) to Fenella Woolgar (Call the Midwife).
Where to Watch:
For Free
Subscriptions
Sky TV
The Cazalets
The Cazalets is a gripping exploration of family, trauma, and societal change in the late 1930s and 1940s. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this 2001 TV adaptation delves into the lives of a wealthy upper-middle-class family, grappling with deeply personal and often shocking issues. As the Cazalets navigate the effects of war, they confront themes such as sexuality, rape, harassment, abortion, postpartum depression, and marital affairs. Set between London and their Sussex estate, the series reveals the complexities of class dynamics, intergenerational struggles, and the emotional toll of family secrets. Based on the first two novels of The Cazalet Chronicles by Elizabeth Jane Howard, The Cazalets offers a haunting portrayal of a family's survival through turbulent times.
Satisfaction Score: 6/10
The series leaves you craving closure, as it ends abruptly with many character arcs unresolved, causing frustration for viewers invested in the Cazalet family's fates. With only one season, you might feel betrayed by the lack of resolution for certain characters. The cast more than makes up for these shortcomings, with standout performances from Hugh Bonneville, Paul Rhys, Lesley Manville, and Anna Chancellor. For those wanting more, there is a full adaptation available on BBC Radio 4, spanning 45 episodes, where you can indulge in the complete Cazalet story.
Where to Watch:
Subscriptions
Get a 7-day free trial of BritBox on Amazon. You won't need more than 7 days to watch this series.
These timeless British period dramas offer rich storytelling and unforgettable performances, laying the groundwork for the modern classics we adore today. From the sweeping romance of Pride & Prejudice to the family saga of The Cazalets, each series brings history to life with elegance and emotional depth. Whether you're a fan of Victorian intrigue, Regency charm, or WWII family drama, these forgotten gems are the perfect way to fill the void while awaiting the latest period TV sensations.
Seen all of the above? You may be interested in the Catherine Cookson Collection, a series of feature-length TV adaptations based on the books of the popular Tyneside novelist. These mini-series delve into themes of love, hardship, and resilience, often set against the backdrop of working-class life in Northern England. With compelling stories and strong characters, they offer a distinct flavor of British period drama, adding variety and depth to the genre. Perfect for fans of emotionally charged and gritty historical tales.
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