Craving More Period Drama? 10 Shows Like Downton Abbey You'll Absolutely Love!
Alright, Downton Abbey fans, we feel you! Once you've devoured all six seasons, it's natural to crave more of that elegant drama, intricate storylines, and those fabulous costumes. So, we've rounded up 10 shows like Downton Abbey that will keep you hooked and satisfied. Let's dive right in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and more shows like downton abbey.
1. Victoria - A Royal Feast of Drama
If you loved the royal intrigue and lavish period detail in Downton, then Victoria is a must-watch. This eight-part series follows the early years of Queen Victoria's reign, from her ascension to the throne at the age of 18 to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert. With stunning visuals and a captivating performance by Jenna Coleman as the young queen, Victoria serves up a royal helping of drama that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
2. Poldark - Passion, Intrigue, and Cornwall's Dramatic Coastline
Poldark is a BBC period drama that ticks all the boxes: passionate love affairs, high-stakes intrigue, and stunning coastal scenery. The story follows Captain Ross Poldark, who returns home after the American Revolutionary War to find his world in ruins and his former love engaged to his cousin. With its gripping plotlines and breathtaking Cornish landscapes, Poldark is an excellent choice for Downton fans.
3. The Crown - Royal Drama with a Modern Twist
Netflix's The Crown offers a fresh take on the royal drama genre, with each season focusing on a different decade of Queen Elizabeth II's reign. The show boasts impressive performances, lavish production values, and a unique narrative structure that interweaves historical events with fictionalized drama. If you're looking for a show that combines the elegance of Downton with a modern sensibility, The Crown is a perfect fit.
4. Call the Midwife - Heartwarming Drama Set in Post-War London
Call the Midwife transports us to the post-war East End of London, where a group of nurse midwives care for the local community. This heartwarming series offers a unique perspective on the period, focusing on the lives of working-class women and the dedicated healthcare professionals who support them. With its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and uplifting spirit, Call the Midwife is a wonderful alternative to Downton Abbey.
5. Bridgerton - Regency Romance with a Modern Edge
Based on Julia Quinn's bestselling novel series, Bridgerton is a delightful blend of Regency-era romance and modern sensibilities. This Netflix original follows the eight Bridgerton siblings as they navigate the complex social landscape of Regency London, seeking love, status, and personal fulfillment. With its diverse cast, witty dialogue, and stunning visuals, Bridgerton is an irresistible choice for Downton fans looking for a fresh take on period drama.
6. Cranford - Small-Town Charm and Witty Dialogue
Cranford is a charming adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel, set in a small Victorian town where the arrival of a handsome young man sets the local ladies' hearts aflutter. This delightful series combines witty dialogue, engaging characters, and a captivating exploration of small-town life. If you enjoyed the intricate social dynamics and character-driven drama of Downton Abbey, Cranford is sure to be a hit.
7. The Durrells - A Quirky Family Drama Set in 1930s Corfu
Based on Gerald Durrell's memoirs, The Durrells tells the story of an eccentric British family who moves to the Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s. This charming series combines beautiful locations, memorable characters, and a healthy dose of quirky humor. If you're looking for a period drama with a lighter touch, The Durrells is an excellent choice.
8. War & Peace - Epic Russian Drama with a Star-Studded Cast
War & Peace is an ambitious adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's classic novel, featuring an all-star cast and lavish production values. This epic series follows the lives of five aristocratic Russian families as they navigate the tumultuous years leading up to the Napoleonic Wars. With its sweeping narrative, memorable characters, and stunning visuals, War & Peace is an excellent choice for Downton fans seeking an epic period drama.
9. The Great - A Witty and Irreverent Take on the Rise of Catherine the Great
The Great is a satirical, anachronistic drama that follows the rise of Catherine the Great, from outsider to the most powerful woman in Russia. This hilarious and irreverent series offers a unique take on the period drama genre, with its sharp wit, memorable characters, and stunning visuals. If you're looking for a period drama with a modern edge, The Great is a perfect fit.
10. Belgravia - Julian Fellowes' Return to the World of Aristocratic Intrigue
Belgravia is the latest period drama from Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, based on his own novel. This six-part series follows the secrets and scandals of two families, the Trenchards and the Brockenhursts, as they navigate the complex social landscape of 1840s London. With its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and intricate plot twists, Belgravia is an excellent choice for Downton fans seeking more of Julian Fellowes' signature brand of aristocratic intrigue.
And there you have it, folks! Ten fantastic shows like Downton Abbey that will keep you glued to your screen and craving more period drama. So, grab your tea (and maybe a slice of cake), and dive into these amazing series! Happy binge-watching!