I LOVE Period Dramas. They are my favorite or should I say favourite. All of these ones are based in England or Scotland. I’m not sure if I watch for the show or if I watch it for the scenic backdrops. Either way I can’t get enough! The list of my favorites below are mostly completed shows except for a few that are still creating new seasons. I have noted them accordingly.
All of these recommendations are a mix of fiction and non-fiction. These are all historic period dramas that are based on some historic events but have fictional storylines that are relative to that era. Have you seen any of these? Am I missing any??
Explore these recommendations
The Crown (4 Seasons, so far) – This series is based on the life of Queen Elizabeth II. The story starts before her reign and continues throughout. It’s really been a joy to watch her story unfold and learn about the highs and lows throughout history from this perspective. The cast is superb and is just charming to watch the dynamic of characters. I’m not sure how many more seasons will be done but am recommending them all.
Downton Abbey (10 Seasons) – Amazing! It took me awhile to get into this one at first, probably 3 episodes or so. This is a great mix of humor, drama, wit, and a great deal of surprises. It is the story of an aristocratic family who lives in a stunning castle in the English countryside with their team of domestic servants. So many charming and interesting characters, there is going to be one you can identify with. The show gives insight to living in that era and key historic events they lived through. SO good.
The English Game (1 Season) – Loved this series about how the game of soccer or football, I should say, came to be. It is based on true events and has a very engaging storyline. It is a really inspiring and heartfelt story, good for the whole family to enjoy.
Outlander (5 Seasons, so far) – This series is a mix of many emotions….of love, war, family, history…and all through time-travel which adds a brilliant twist and level of curiosity to the storyline. It’s extremely engaging and the love story between the 2 main characters is endearing and quite steamy at times, incase you’re looking for a good romance.
Peaky Blinders (5 Seasons) – This show is a mix of drama and violence. It’s a show based on a historic gang based in Birmingham, England back in the 1800s so there’s going to be violence. The suspense and storylines kept my interest.
Poldark (5 Seasons) – This is a British TV Show that takes place between 1781-1801 and follows the character of Ross Poldark after he returns to Cornwall from the American Revolutionary War. The storyline includes a love story, plenty of family drama, mine owner business hardships, and on. Anything that takes place in Cornwall, I must watch for the landscapes alone.
Reign (3 Seasons) – This show follows the storyline of Queen Mary of Scots. It shows more like a soap opera and the first season starts off strong and is very engaging. Each season is about 20+ episodes long so the story continues and continues. It tends to be very dramatic which makes it a fun break from other shows. I still have this one going on in the background.
Sandition (1 Season) – You will love every minute of this show but be prepared to be left hanging for more. It is Jane Austen’s unfinished work that is completed by Andrew Davies. It is a witty, delightful story set in a seaside resort town with a mix of drama and mystique. Jane Austen’s writing compelling writing style is definitely carried into this storyline.
Victoria (3 Seasons, so far) – This series follows the life of Queen Victoria and takes place in the Victorian Era of the 1800’s. She takes reign at only 18 years old and continued to reign for 63 years. It’s a very compelling story of her life and relationships and will keep you yearning for more.
This should keep you busy for awhile. I’ll continue to recommend more as I find them. Interested in my Top Netflix Recommendations? Click here.
Enjoy!
xx, ej
