As the darker nights arrive there’s nothing better than curling up with a cup of tea and getting lost in a TV show. From gripping mysteries to witty comedies the UK has produced some of the best binge worthy series. Here’s a list of shows that will keep you entertained as the weather turns colder!
Sherlock - Crime/Drama
Perfect for: Fans of clever mysteries and intellectual thrillers.
Why Binge: Few shows capture the mind like Sherlock. This modern adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective tales sees Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr Watson, solving intricate cases in 21st-century London. The show is full of twists, psychological tension and brilliant performances. With only a few seasons, it’s ideal for a binge watch marathon.
Broadchurch - Crime/Drama
Perfect for: Lovers of emotionally charged crime dramas.
Why Binge: This show combines a haunting atmosphere with a heart wrenching mystery. Set in a quiet seaside town, the series follows detectives Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) as they investigate the murder of a young boy. The picturesque coastal setting contrasts the dark themes of loss, guilt and community secrets. The emotional depth will keep you glued to your screen.
The Crown - Historical Drama
Perfect for: History buffs and royal watchers.
Why Binge: The Crown gives a fascinating and dramatic look inside the life of Queen Elizabeth II, exploring her reign from the early years of her marriage to the modern day. With stunning performances, lavish costumes and a rich sense of history, this show is a visual feast that captures the intricacies of the British monarchy.
Peaky Blinders - Crime/Drama
Perfect for: Fans of gritty, stylish period dramas.
Why Binge: Set in post WWI Birmingham, Peaky Blinders follows the Shelby family, a gang that rises through the criminal underworld. Cillian Murphy’s performance as the charismatic and ruthless Tommy Shelby is electric and the show’s sharp dialogue, stylish visuals, and thrilling plotlines make it a binge worthy favourite. Its moody, atmospheric tone makes it perfect for long, dark evenings.
Fleabag - Comedy/Drama
Perfect for: Those who love sharp wit and emotional depth.
Why Binge: Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag is a masterclass in modern dark comedy. The show follows a young woman (known only as Fleabag) navigating life, relationships, and grief in London, breaking the fourth wall to hilarious and heart breaking effect. It’s short and snappy, making it perfect for a one-weekend binge, but its emotional impact will linger long after the final credits roll.
Downton Abbey - Historical Drama
Perfect for: Period drama lovers.
Why Binge: If you're a fan of grand estates, opulent costumes, and sharp social commentary, Downton Abbey is a must watch. Following the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants, the show is filled with drama, romance and historical events that shape their world. It’s a comforting series, with a rich cast of characters that make every episode engaging.
Doctor Who - Sci-Fi/Adventure
Perfect for: Fans of time traveling adventures and quirky heroes.
Why Binge: Doctor Who is a beloved British institution. With the Doctor, an enigmatic Time Lord at the helm, the show explores space and time in the most imaginative ways. The beauty of Doctor Who is its endless variety. Each episode brings new worlds, monsters and stories to explore. With its optimistic tone and adventurous spirit, it’s a fun way to escape the gloom of the colder evenings.
Line of Duty - Crime/Thriller
Perfect for: Anyone who loves intricate police procedurals.
Why Binge: This highly addictive police drama focuses on an anti-corruption unit investigating the murky world of police misconduct. Each season presents a new case, with twists, turns and shocking revelations that will keep you hooked. The complex characters and intense interrogations make Line of Duty a gripping watch.
Have you enjoyed any of these? Which other British shows do you recommend?
I think the only one I've seen from this list is Downton; which I just loved! I also like Heartstopper and The Good Girl's Guide to Murder mini series.
ReplyDeleteI have watched almost all of these - great recommendations!
ReplyDeleteThe Crown and Downton Abbey are my two favorites. I also watch a lot of the older British Telly - Foyle's War, Midsomer Murders, and Shetland.
ReplyDeleteI just recently started watching Broadchurch again. My brother-in-law actually lives in Broadchurch (or Bridport as it's really known. I didn't even know until we went to visit and I was like, wow, that's just like the police station at Broadchurch (it's not a police station) and those cliffs and beach look familiar. And there is a place where I remember David Tennent standing having a conversation looking out over the sea and it felt surreal standing in exactly the same place. I did look for his house on the hill but I couldn't see it, lol. (It was probably filmed somewhere else.) I've watched all of these but Downton Abby and the Crown. And I've not watched much of Peaky Blinders even though they talk my language, lol xx
ReplyDeleteI love Fleabag such a funny comedy X
ReplyDeleteI've only actually watched Line of Duty on this list. I usually like period dramas but we never got into Downton Abbey, and the Crown is on my watchlist (still!)
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