10 Must-See British Period Dramas on Britbox Now!

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If you find yourself utterly enthralled by the lavish attire, magnificent manors, vast landscapes, and thrilling narratives that define British period television dramas, then luckily for you, Britbox boasts a wealth of treasures to immerse yourself in the elegance and drama of times long past. From the tantalizing interpersonal conflicts within an aristocratic household to the reenactments of significant historical occurrences, these series possess an uncanny ability to whisk you away from your daily life and into a completely different realm altogether.

Britbox, being the go-to streaming service for fans of British series, consistently delivers an abundance of shows in this cherished genre. As the leading platform for top-notch British films and television shows, it’s overflowing with period dramas that have won numerous awards. These captivating productions offer visually stunning settings, faithful interpretations of classic novels, and a gifted cast that breathes life into complex characters in a way that feels both familiar and eternal.

Here are the 10 best British period dramas for your next great binge-watching session on Britbox.

10
‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ (2008)

Based on Thomas Hardy’s novel about a doomed romance, Tess of the D’Urbervilles is a four-part series that unfolds in the expansive countryside of 19th-century England. The story revolves around Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she learns about her family’s aristocratic lineage. She encounters a couple of affluent relatives and finds herself caught in a love triangle involving Alec d’Urberville and Angel Curse.

Romance Has Never Been More Tragic

2008 BBC drama masterfully directed by David Blair offers an impressive display of top-notch production, subtle acting, and a compelling storyline that tackles issues of class, morality, and the human experience. Gemma Arterton adds depth to her character and the script artfully amplifies Hardy’s social commentary, culminating in a poignant and indelible conclusion.

9
‘Cranford’ (2007 – 2010)

Narrating tales set in a quaint, imaginary Cheshire town during the 1840s, Cranford is animated by the daily routines and social norms of its unmarried and widowed middle-class female residents. The narrative centers primarily on the beloved Miss Matty Jenkyns, portrayed by Judi Dench, and her practical sister Deborah, brought to life by Eileen Atkins. However, the tranquility is shattered with the appearance of a young doctor named Dr. Harrison.

Celebration of Small-Town Life

Based on novellas by Elizabeth Gaskell, “Cranford” is a two-season series overflowing with wit, charm, and a hint of sadness. Its clever writing, authentic period details, and stellar cast headed by Dame Judi Dench and Imelda Staunton make it equally heartwarming and amusing. From the fashion to the societal customs of the time, from the town’s everyday dramas to the endearing friendships that shape Cranford, every element is captivating.

8
‘Three Little Birds’ (2023)

Originating from the comedian Sir Lenny Henry during the 70s and 80s, this piece is an emotional rendition based on true tales of the Windrush generation. The heart of “Three Little Birds” revolves around three Jamaican women: Leah, Chantrelle, and Hosanna. Enticed by dreams of prospects and a chance for improvement, they immigrate to post-war Britain in the 1950s, grappling with preserving their identity within an unfamiliar territory.

Cultural Depth and Strong Friendships

This is a heartwarming and thought-provoking historical drama set in post-war Britain, focusing on the strong bond of sisterhood and sprinkled with wit. Sir Henry’s narrative style adds depth and sophistication to the production. The meticulously crafted costumes, captivating soundtrack, and outstanding performances by Rochelle Neil, Saffron Coomber, and Yasmin Belo-Mosca make it a standout in Britbox’s collection of period dramas.

7
‘Brideshead Revisited’ (1981)

The decay of the British aristocracy is remarkably fascinating, as evidenced by the numerous novels about it and the shows inspired by it. One such series is “Brideshead Revisited,” which spans 11 parts and follows Charles Ryder, an artist whose life becomes entangled with the Flyte family after a random encounter with Sebastian Flyte at Oxford. The narrative unfolds through flashbacks, detailing his profound relationship with Sebastian and Julia Flyte, their troubled mother, from the 1920s to the early 1940s.

Thrives on Slow-Burn Storytelling

The series is renowned for its opulent visuals and poetic narration, boasting exceptional direction by Charles Sturridge and an extraordinary ensemble cast, including Jeremy Irons as Charles and Anthony Andrews as Sebastian, along with esteemed theater veterans Sir Laurence Olivier and Sir John Gielgud. The series’ breathtaking portrayal of Castle Howard and its portrayal of war-torn England add to its captivating and poignant allure.

6
‘Pride and Prejudice’ (1995)

In a six-part retelling, Jane Austen’s cherished novel “Pride and Prejudice” brings to life a humorous portrayal of love during the Regency era in England. The narrative revolves around Elizabeth Bennet, one of the five sisters from the Bennet family, who stands out for her liveliness. As she manages family obligations, pursues romance, grapples with courtship nuances, and experiences growing affections for the seemingly arrogant and snobbish Mr. Darcy, this story follows a path we all recognize.

A Timeless Regency Romance

1813 saw the publication of Austen’s timeless romantic masterpiece, which remains one of literature’s most cherished love stories. The 1995 film version exemplifies British period dramas at their peak and was skillfully directed by Simon Langton. The production received acclaim for its accurate representation of the original work. Jennifer Ehle’s portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet and Colin Firth’s captivating Darcy left indelible impressions on viewers for years to come. Iconic scenes, such as the one at Pemberley where Firth’s Darcy emerges from the lake, have become legendary and will forever be etched in history.

5
‘The Glass Virgin’ (1995)

The Glass Maiden

This novel tells the story of Annabelle Lagrange, a young woman who’s lived a life of luxury and seclusion, oblivious to the fact that her family history is shrouded in deceit. Once she learns the truth about her birth, she decides to leave home. An enigmatic man named Manuel Mendoza crosses her path, sparking Annabelle’s interest in exploring the world and embarking on a journey of self-discovery.

Gripping Story of Personal Awakening

Based on Catherine Cookson’s novel with the same title, this multi-layered period drama delves into themes of class and gender through the character of Annabelle in a setting of resistance and social pressure. Emily Mortimer gives an outstanding performance as the lead character, adding depth to every episode. The picturesque countryside, bathed in sunlight at all times, adds a touch of beauty to the otherwise tense narrative. Despite being less popular than other shows, The Glass Virgin is definitely worth watching on Britbox.

4
‘Upstart Crow’ (2016 – 2021)

As a movie critic, I can’t help but rave about “Upstart Crow,” a delightful sitcom that offers a fresh, side-splitting perspective on the life of none other than the legendary playwright, William Shakespeare. This series cleverly depicts his journey as a young, ambitious playmaker navigating the ruthless and competitive London theater world. The show’s humor lies in its portrayal of Shakespeare grappling with the challenges of bringing his extraordinary visions to life on stage, particularly in the lead-up to Romeo and Juliet. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a peek behind the scenes of Shakespeare’s creative process!

Shakespeare Meets Modern Humor

Over the course of three seasons, Ben Elton’s period sitcom provides a humorous and contemporary perspective on Shakespeare’s life. The talented David Mitchell brilliantly portrays the character, making him come alive. Unlike a traditional historical drama, this gem on Britbox delves into Shakespeare’s personal flaws, such as writer’s block, family feuds, professional rivalries, and complicated relationships with arrogant actors. Instead of being a dry history lesson, it references popular shows like Blackadder and The Office, seamlessly incorporating clever winks to his world.

3
‘Little Dorrit’ (2008)

Andrew Davies, renowned for his screenwriting on shows like “Pride and Prejudice” and “A Room With a View,” breathes new life into the classic tale set in Victorian London. The story unfolds around Amy Dorrit, the diligent daughter of a man incarcerated in the Marshalsea debtors’ prison. Amy labors diligently to sustain her family, but when an enigmatic gentleman named Arthur Clennam enters the city, it triggers a series of events that significantly alters the lives of the Dorrit family.

Dickens’ Masterpiece Brought to Flawless Life

This show, Little Dorrit, based on Charles Dickens’ novel, unravels a captivating tale filled with secrets, deceptions, and long-hidden facts at every corner, making each episode more enticing than the last. It’s a grand, character-centric drama that offers insightful critique on social disparities and institutional misconduct in 19th century England. The talented ensemble cast, boasting Claire Foy as Amy and Matthew Macfadyen as Arthur, garnered the series several Emmy Awards.

2
‘Anna of the Five Towns’ (2012)

In the industrial England of the 1890s, specifically the Potteries region, Anna of the Five Towers offers a richly detailed depiction of life during this era, including the hardships of factory work and the deep-seated class distinctions that were prevalent. Anna Twllwright, a compassionate woman from a well-off family in the Five Towns area, longs for freedom from her overbearing father’s control. This desire is fulfilled when she encounters two men who present vastly different paths for her.

Female Empowerment in a Patriarchal Society

An engaging reinterpretation of Arnold Bennett’s renowned novel, this two-part drama skillfully maintains the author’s incisive social critique and vivid portrayal of Victorian England. It authentically recreates the epoch through historically accurate costumes and industrial backdrops. Central to its narrative is a woman’s fight for self-determination amidst a society that attempts to dictate her life, powerfully portrayed by Lynn Farleigh with understated fortitude.

1
‘Downton Abbey’ (2010 – 2015)

Undeniably, Downton Abbey stands out as one of the peak productions in British period dramas, providing a captivating and heartrending peek into the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their devoted servants. Spanning from the devastating Titanic disaster in 1912 to the tumultuous 1920s following the war, the series delves into the most significant and turbulent events of the 20th century as characters navigate the changing currents of tradition.

A Sweeping Saga of Changing Times

The long-running TV show “Downton Abbey” unfolds over six captivating seasons, brimming with intricate subplots, grandiose settings, and poignant scenes such as Matthew’s formal proposal to Mary amidst the falling snow. Its allure stems from its compelling storyline, stunning visuals, and a cast that feels like kin – Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, and Maggie Smith in her role as the Dowager Countess. What sets it apart is not just its longevity but also the fact that it has inspired a franchise, with two movies already released and another one underway.

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2025-04-11 04:04