The British sure know how to make good entertainment (thank you, BBC). When it comes to TV shows, I love that each episode is often like a mini-movie, each lasting more than an hour. And the Christmas specials are to die for. I even watch the Dr. Who Christmas specials (but I do leave the room when those darn Daleks show up, because I have limits).
Here’s my list of favorite British TV series, in alphabetical order. I won’t take up your time waxing poetic about Downton Abbey or The Crown; we’ve all binged-watched these, right?
1. Call the Midwife (2012-present)
Based on Jennifer Worth’s memoirs about her life as a midwife in 1950s East London, the show has now extended beyond the books; it’s currently in its 8th season. The characters are as diverse as they are delightful. There is wise and calm Sister Julienne, impatient and selfless Sister Evangelina, upbeat and clumsy Nurse Chummy, savvy and troubled Trixie, and fragile and pure Nurse Cynthia, to name a few. The story lines, like real human stories, are always heartwarming and heartwrenching. While I don’t always agree with the resolution of certain moral dilemmas, the show does not shy away from portraying the struggles and joys of the ordinary people whom the nuns and midwives served.
2. Dr. Thorne (2016)
Based on the book of the same name by Anthony Trollope, this four-part series was scripted by Julian Fellowes of Downton Abbey fame. It has all the elements of a good period drama: illegitimacy, young lovers kept apart by a class divide, virtuous but poor people, rich but vicious people, and an unexpected inheritance which solves everyone’s problems in the end. Oops, I’ve said too much. Last time I checked, it was one of the few good shows I found on Amazon prime (before we cancelled our subscription because of the lack of good shows).
3. Foyle’s War (2002-2015)
Foyle’s War is a detective drama set in the UK during and after WWII. It stars Michael Kitchen, who in my humble opinion is one of the most talented actors to come out of England. Quiet and reserved but brilliantly witty, Kitchen’s facial expressions speak a thousand words and pretty much make the show. There are eight short seasons in all; the first six were the best.
4. The Great British Bakeoff (2010-present)
Beautiful countryside scenery, delectable baked concoctions and that delightful accent. How could I not love this show? During 10 weeks, 12 amateur contestants from all walks of life compete for the glorious title of Star Baker. Unlike many US-based reality shows, the tone is always good-natured and in good fun. There is no cattiness or drama, other than the drama of burning the cake with 10 minutes left in the contest (my blood pressure is rising at the mere thought). I especially loved the first 7 seasons with the lady-est of ladies Mary Berry and tell-it-straight Paul Hollywood as the judges. Recipes available here!
5. Lark Rise to Candleford (2008-2011)
Based on Flora Thompson’s semi-autobiographical accounts of her early life, the four-season series is an entertaining accompaniment to the book trilogy. I definitely recommend reading the books as the series do deviate significantly from them. Still, the acting is fine and the story lines provide great insight into the lives of humble farmers and the emerging townspeople in the late 1800s England.
6. North and South (2004)
In the 1980s there was a popular miniseries about the American Civil War titled North and South; this isn’t it. This one is a four-part series based on Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel of the same name. In this case I watched the series first, loved it, and then read the book. It doesn’t hurt that Richard Armitage, who plays Mr. Thornton, is every bit the dark, handsome hero of a girl’s daydreams. Kudos also go to Daniela Denby-Ashe for her role as the headstrong and selfless Margaret Hale. And then there’s Sinéad Cusack as Mrs. Thornton, the proud momma who loves her son just a little too much.
7. Poldark (2015-present)
Speaking of dark and handsome heroes. Based on the book series by Winston Graham, the TV series pretty well follows the chronology and events of the books, at least in the first seasons (at the time of writing, the 5th season is currently in production). I thoroughly enjoyed the first two seasons; I found the later seasons a little too over-the-top with drama. The characters are engaging; who wouldn’t fall in love with the rash but righteous Ross Polark, his passionate and long-suffering wife Demelza, gentle Dr. Enys and his wealthy wife Caroline, and the ever conniving George Warleggan? My favorite part though, by far, is the setting of Cornwall. Those sweeping views of the ocean and the jagged cliffs are enough to keep me coming back for more.
8. Sherlock (2010-2017)
Ooh, I LOVED this modern rendition of the Sherlock mysteries. Benedict Cumberbatch does fair justice to the character of high IQ/low EQ Sherlock, and Martin Freeman is well cast as the-ying-to-his-yang sidekick Dr. Watson. The mysteries are brilliantly executed, with plenty of witty humour to balance the gruesome crimes. The supporting cast was top notch as well, from show co-creator Mark Gatiss as Sherlock’s estranged brother Mycroft Holmes (what names!), Jim Scott as Sherlock’s psychopathic nemesis Moriarty, and Una Stubbs as the kindly but not-so-innocent landlady Mrs. Hudson. Thirteen episodes have been produced to date, and I so wish they would make more.
9. Victoria (2016-present)
Before Elizabeth II, there was Victoria. How I admire these strong, devoted queens. Currently in its third season, this Masterpiece production follows the life of Queen Victoria, beginning with her ascension to the throne. I think Jenna Coleman is fantastic in the title role, and Tom Hughes as her beloved husband Prince Albert is portrayed as her equal in all ways excepting that of the Crown. I think those two are dating in real life, which makes sense as they have palpable chemistry on camera.
10. War and Peace (2016)
Ok so this one is based on one of the best Russian novels ever written, but since the series was produced by BBC, I’m including it here. I confess that I haven’t read Leo Tolstoy’s novel yet, so I’m not sure how I will rate the TV adaptation once I read the source. I certainly enjoyed watching this eight-part series; the cinematography is a feast to the eyes and the narrative is equal parts joy, suffering, virtue and vice. On second thought, maybe there was a bit more suffering than joy. It’s Russian drama after all.
I hope I have shared something new and exciting for your viewing pleasure. Now it’s your turn; please share your favorite British shows in the comments below!
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