20+ Shows Like Downton Abbey You Should Watch If You're a Fan of British Drama

Attention all British drama enthusiasts! The UK has an unmatched knack for producing captivating television and film (shoutout to classics like The Office, Pride & Prejudice, and Harry Potter). One standout is Downton Abbey, which captured American audiences when it premiered on PBS in 2011, earning an impressive six Primetime Emmy Awards in its debut year. The series chronicled the engaging ups and downs of the Crawley family as they navigated the challenges of maintaining their estate amid societal changes.

Fortunately, there are plenty of other remarkable British dramas (ahem, Bridgerton, ahem) that delve into the lives of intricate families from the late 19th century and early 20th century. If you’ve just finished watching Shonda Rhimes’ delightful Regency-era series and are eager for more enticing stories, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of must-see shows that reflect the charm, history, and endless drama of British society. Grab your favorite streaming platform and prepare for a weekend escape into the rich narratives of the British countryside and its strict traditions.

And while you’re enjoying these shows, check out our collection of cheeky jokes about England and our guide to brilliant British slang. Why not dive even deeper?

1. Poldark

Follow Ross Poldark as he gallantly rides along the cliffs of Cornwall amidst romance, family feuds, and mining challenges. Unlike Downton Abbey, which centers on upper-class society, Poldark highlights the struggles of a mining family trying to survive in tough times.

2. Bridgerton

This Netflix sensation is a blend of Gossip Girl, Downton Abbey, and Pride and Prejudice. With its dark humor, romance, and stunning empire-waist gowns, it’s no wonder fans can’t get enough.

3. Upstairs, Downstairs

A classic that bears a close resemblance to Downton Abbey, this series humorously explores the lives of the aristocratic family upstairs and the staff downstairs, making it difficult to choose a side.

4. Howards End

Numerous adaptations exist of E.M. Forster’s novel, but the 2017 series on Hulu, featuring Matthew Macfadyen and Tracey Ullman, is a fantastic place to start. Much like Downton Abbey, it follows three families as they navigate the complexities of early 20th-century England.

5. Call The Midwife

For fans of period dramas, Call The Midwife offers a compelling narrative about a group of midwives supporting women during childbirth while managing their own dramas. With multiple seasons available, it’s perfect for binge-watching.

6. Da Vinci’s Demons

This unique series reimagines the life of Leonardo da Vinci, depicting him as a brilliant thinker ahead of his time, embroiled in mystery and adventure.

7. The Crown

A riveting dramatization of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, The Crown spans from the 1940s to the present, encapsulating romance, rivalry, and personal struggles within the royal family.

8. Dickinson

This clever series chronicles the life of iconic poet Emily Dickinson, played by Hailee Steinfeld, as she grapples with her identity in a relatable and humorous manner.

More Shows Like Downton Abbey

The Durrells
Belgravia
The Tudors
Sanditon
War & Peace
Wolf Hall
North & South
Gentleman Jack
Lark Rise To Candleford
Ordeal By Innocence
The Spanish Princess
Bleak House
Harlots
The Windsors
Victoria

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Summary:

This article highlights over 20 British dramas that fans of Downton Abbey will enjoy. From Poldark to The Crown, each show encapsulates the charm, intrigue, and historical richness of British storytelling, making them perfect for anyone seeking captivating narratives.