Our Top 10 Favourite Period Dramas You Can Watch Now

With the announcement of two new Jane Austen adaptations, the soon-arrival of Emily Fairn’s House of Guinness, and Emerald Fennell’s already controversial Wuthering Heights, it seems that the period drama obsession is anything but slowing down. Whether it’s a glossy new adaptation with a modern twist or a classic you just can’t help but rewatch, we’re inundated with a variety of choice. This genre as a collective continuously enchants audiences with an escape from everything we know today. From the excessive decadence of the 18th century high societies to the simmering tensions of wartime, there’s a drama to match every mood.

Our Favourite Period Films & TV Shows

Outrageous

In June, BBC iPlayer offered audiences the first ever dramatisation of the socialite Mitford sisters. Set in the 1930s and raised in an eccentric, loud and aristocratic house, the six sisters begin to stir scandal outside of their family as they challenge the conventions of their time both politically and socially. The six-episode series has a Wes Anderson touch in its playful cinematography, bright yellow text and Nancy’s witty narration guiding us throughout. Bold, fun and moving, you can’t help but hope for a second series. Watch on U or purchase on Apple TV

Bridgerton

The birth of Bridgerton in 2020 was perhaps the peak of the period drama craze. If you’re not already hooked, the show follows the eight Bridgerton siblings as they navigate the thorny world of London’s high society. A torment of passion, drama and surprises, this show perfectly met audience’s romance cravings. Having this intoxicating series set in an alternative Regency era in which racial equality has already been granted allows for refreshing diversity in this often white-washed genre. Watch on Netflix

The Crown

Capturing a more recent past, Netflix’s The Crown focuses on Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. Portrayed by Claire Foy, Olivia Colman and Imelda Staunton across the years, audiences are granted an unforeseen insight into the Queen’s life behind Buckingham Palace’s gates. With six seasons covering six decades worth of royal history, the show spans both the political turmoil of the nation alongside the endless dramas of the royals themselves. Lavish yet controversial, it’s a defining period drama of our time. Watch on Netflix

Downton Abbey

Transported into the world of the Crawley family and their staff, Downton Abbey epitomises the upstairs-downstairs period drama. With a cast that can’t be beaten, it’s an irresistible, witty and poignant show. While Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale has finally marked the end of the saga, it’s certain that its cultural impact will last on for years to come. Watch on Netflix, Disney Plus and ITVX Premium

(L to R) Josie Totah, Alisha Boe, Aubri Ibrag and Kristine Frøseth in The Buccaneers season 2

The Buccaneers

Based on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel, The Buccaneers follows a group of young American heiresses who have arrived England on the hunt for aristocratic husbands. It’s rebellious and playful with a punchy challenge to the Victorian social codes: think bold costumes, a modern soundtrack, and a frothy yet enticing plot. Watch on AppleTV

Marie Antoinette

Sofia Coppola’s vision of France’s most infamous queen is a confection of excess: powdered wigs, pastel gowns, glorious cakes and extravagant Baroque architecture. It delves into the decadence of Versailles while exposing the emptiness beneath all the splendour, making it as tragic as it is dazzling. Rent/buy from AppleTV, Amazon Prime, YouTube or Sky Store

Pride and Prejudice

No list of period dramas would be complete without Austen’s most beloved story. Whether it’s the iconic BBC series from 1995 or Joe Wright’s 2005 film, Pride and Prejudice remains the blueprint for romance against the odds. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy’s love story has stood the test of time and is as compelling now as when Austen first published it in 1813. But will the new Netflix remake make the cut? Watch the TV series on BBC iPlayer and buy/rent the film on AppleTV, Amazon Prime and Sky Store

Emma

Autumn de Wilde’s 2020 adaptation of Jane Austen‘s Emma stars Anya Taylor-Joy as its eponymous heroine. Perfectly sharp and stylish, Wilde leans into the comedy of the story, bringing the meddling and gleefully witty side of Emma to the fore. Watch on Amazon Prime

Little Women

This nostalgic coming-of-age story is a comforting rendition of Louisa May Alcott’s novel. It celebrates creativity, independence and the messy beauty of sisterhood. Greta Gerwig’s directing breathes new life to the story, though one can’t overlook Gillian Armstrong’s equally as cosy and heartwarming 1994 version. Watch the 2019 version on Netflix and buy/rent the 1994 version on Amazon Prime

Gosford Park

Here, period drama meets murder mystery, offering a dark albeit satirical twist to the genre. Set in a countryside estate, it’s both a critique of the class divisions that persisted despite the blending of hierarchies during World War One, as well as a delicious whodunnit. Watch on BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime and Disney Plus