UPDATE: SEE 60 Best Sensational Period Dramas On Netflix To Watch (2022)
In the past year, several fantastic period dramas disappeared from Netflix (they, unfortunately, lost the streaming rights). Daniel Deronda, Wives and Daughters, Bleak House, and The Way We Live Now are just a few of the sumptuous and vibrantly romantic period pieces taken off the U.S. Netflix. And while they lost several of BBC’s finest dramas, there are several other fantastic mini-series and TV Shows just waiting to be devoured.
25 Period Dramas to Watch on Netflix
(In No Particular Order)
#1: Reign (2013)
With Anne Shirley (Megan Follows) herself as the scheming Catherine de Medici, you can’t get more addictive then this underrated series. Sure the costumes aren’t authentic (a purposeful choice), but neither is the actual story based on Mary, Queen of Scots.
Romance, intrigue, and Catherine’s conniving plots keep me hooked for sure. This is rated TV 14 and includes some racy scenes. Nothing too graphic.
RELATED | Review of Reign
#2: Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (2012)
What’s not to love about this Australian 1920s murder mystery? With a fantastic leading lady in Miss Fisher, a great leading man in Detective Inspector Robinson, witty dialogue to make you laugh, and out of the world costume design, you will be nothing but entertained from start to finish of each episode. One of my personal favorites. Very infrequently, Miss Fisher does have some adult content thrown in. There’s also a lot of strong sensuality.
RELATED | Review of Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries
#3: Grand Hotel (2011)
If you love Downton Abbey and don’t mind subtitles, then Grand Hotel is a must-see TV Series set in Spain. The star-crossed love story between Alicia and Julio is exquisite. The best part is that all three seasons are now available on Netflix. You don’t even have to wait for an ending. There are a few scenes of sexuality sprinkled throughout the show, but they are extremely infrequent.
RELATED | Review of Grand Hotel
#4: Velvet (2013)
Another Spanish import, Velvet is a classic class divide love story set in the 1950s and 60s that will make you swoon. The production values are also fantastic.
#5: Call the Midwife (2012)
Not many TV shows follow mostly female characters and deal with female problems. The show is about a group of midwives and nuns working to help the people of Poplar and maybe even themselves in the process. The stories can be heartbreaking, uplifting, and sometimes even a little romantic. The standout in this is, of course, the hilarious Miranda Hart.
# 6: North & South (2004)
If you haven’t seen North & South yet, it should be at the top of your list! The Mini-Series follows Margaret Hale as she moves from the comforts of the South of England to an industrial town in the North. There she meets Mr. Thornton and becomes prejudiced against him in a very Elizabeth Bennet kind of way. North & South is like Dickens meets Austen, with a nice side of Richard Armitage to make this a mini-series worth revisiting time and time again.
#7: When Calls the Heart (2014)
This wholesome period drama may get a bit cheesy at times, but I love the clean romance and heartwarming stories the show shares with the audience. Yes, sometimes the dialogue is a bit stilted (especially in season 1), and sometimes it can get a little soapy (see season 2), however, the show is totally worth it for Jack. I adore him as the leading man and I think you will too.
RELATED | Review of When Calls the Heart
#8: The Paradise (2012)
Another favorite of mine, The Paradise tells the story of shop girl Denise as she falls for the shop’s owner, Mr. Moray. Aside from the romance, the strength of this series goes back to the characterization. Every person will feel layered and real by the end of the show. Few writers have this depth to their skill.
RELATED | Review of The Paradise
#9: Death Comes to Pemberley (2014)
What happens after Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are married with children? This mini-series (based on a book) aims to discover just that. An enjoyable few hours of your time.
RELATED | Review of Death Comes to Pemberley
#10: The Forsyte Saga (2002)
Family secrets, love, and interweaving plots follow the Forsyte family in this well-developed period mini-series. Look out for a young Ioan Gruffudd and Damien Lewis. EDIT: This was recently taken off Netflix.
#11: Scarlet & Black (1993)
While I haven’t yet watched this one, it’s on my list just because of the actors. Scarlet & Black stars a very young Ewan McGregor and Rachel Weisz and tells the story of a womanizing social climber. This is not rated so I can’t give a content warning, though I do believe there is nudity and some sexuality in this one.
#12: Land Girls (2009)
Set in WWII, the series follows four women working the land during the War. While not one of my favorites of all time, there’s certainly a lot of romance to go around and hold your interest.
#13: The Buccaneers (1995)
A little soapy in the writing, The Buccaneers is worth catching when you want something simply silly and fun to devour. It’s about four American women who decide to go to England to find a good husband. The Buccaneers stars a young Carla Gugino, Mira Sorvino, and Greg Wise (Sense and Sensibility).
#14: Robin Hood (2006)
If you love Merlin, medieval costume dramas, and Richard Armitage (he plays the villainous but slightly redeemable Guy), then you will enjoy this adorable and swashbuckling fun British TV Show. Sure, season 3 takes some missteps (I won’t spoil it for newbies), but overall a great romantic series to binge watch (I love both the love story between Robin and Marian and Guy and Marian). Just don’t take it too seriously.
#15: Dancing on the Edge (2013)
A more recent addition to Netflix, I have not yet seen this 1930s-period drama mini-series about the world of Jazz. While rated TV-MA, I don’t know yet what the exact content entails, but what this series does have going is a fabulous cast with actors from some favorites: Merlin, Doctor Who, The Good Wife, The Paradise, etc.
#16: Poirot (1989)
While more episodes stream over on Acorn TV, there are still plenty to catch on Netflix. I love a good British Murder Mystery, and Agatha Christie is the best. Each episode is a new mystery and new cast of characters (outside the iconic detective) that will keep you guessing who did it right up to the very end…
#17: Island at War (2004)
A WWII Period Piece that may be worth checking out about an island invaded by Nazis. This is one period drama I have on my own to watch list. Anyone who’s seen it should definitely chime in! Island at War stars Downton Abbey’s, Joanne Froggatt. (Edit: According to the comments, there is some nudity in Island At War).
#18: The Bletchley Circle (2012)
Seven years after WWII, a group of women uses their old codebreaking skills to solve murders they think are connected. A fascinating period drama with interesting female characters to identify with.
#19: The Grand (1997)
Before Downton Abbey, there was The Grand about the upper and lower classes of a hotel. While imperfect, it’s an enjoyable watch and has some good characterization in it thanks to the writer Russell T. Davies (the same man who would later bring back Doctor Who).
#20: Foyle’s War (2002)
Foyle’s War follows Superintendent Christopher Foyle as he solves crimes in the midst of the chaos WWII brings. With a female driver Samantha (Foyle doesn’t drive) and partner Paul Milner (he’s gets injured so can no longer fight), the criminals have no chance…It’s Samantha that really steals the show with her heart.
#21: Fleming: The Man Who Would Be Bond (2014)
A look at the man who created James Bond. This one is just plain, old-fashioned fun. Fleming is rated TV-MA.
RELATED | Review of Fleming: The Man Who Would Be Bond
#22: Murdoch Mysteries (2008)
An amusing Canadian mystery series set during the early 1900s. While some of the dialogue can be stilted at times, I really love the main character! It’s definitely fun seeing the various mysteries unfold.
RELATED | Review of Murdoch Mysteries
#23: Bomb Girls (2012)
A Canadian look at WWII. While I haven’t seen it, we have a review here to give you an idea of what the show is all about.
RELATED | Review of Bomb Girls
#24: Jewel in the Crown (1984)
Another period drama still on my list to see, The Jewel in the Crown won a Golden Globe for Best Mini-Series and several Emmy Awards as well. This one does contain graphic content including a rape that is central to the story. It’s set in India at the end of British rule.
#25: Mad Men (2007)
Photo: AMC
When I first started Mad Men, I hated all the characters and couldn’t get into it. It’s seriously about a bunch of terrible people working at an advertising company. Somehow, however, I just couldn’t take my eyes away from Don Draper and all of his lies. Finally, I just had to keep watching. The highlight (for me anyway) of the series is the strange friendship between Don and Peggy. On a side note, there is definitely adult content in this, but most of the time Mad Men is rated TV-14.
For more recommendations, check out: Romantic Period Films to Watch On Netflix Part 1
What are you planning to watch on Netflix? Any favorites? Sound off in the comments…
Featured image photo at top: When Calls the Heart/Photo: Crown Media/Hallmark
Black Sails – you missed that out!
I just picked 25 titles from Netflix in the U.S. Black Sails isn’t available.
Just to warn you, Island At War does not have an ending. The writer died and it was cancelled. It was very frustrating. You can catch a glimpse of Sam Heughan from Outlander too. My favorite is Phillip Glenister, though.
Thanks for sharing. I didn’t know that it didn’t have an ending. I hate that. Is there any sort of closure at all?
Not really. It is dissapointing. There is also nudity. Not for kids
Okay, thanks for the info.
No closure. It was such a shame. I got really invested in some of the plot lines.
I definitely feel hesitant about watching this one now.
Murdoch Mysteries is one of my faves! I have wacthed North and South a ridiculous number of times! So Good!
I was just watching it again the other day. North and South never gets old.
Two mini series that can be streamed on pbs.org right now that are amazing are “Poldark” and “The crimson field”. These mini series are excellent!
Poldark is awesome! I completely agree. I haven’t checked out The Crimson Field yet though. But it’s on my list!
I’d love to watch Poldark but only the latest 3 episode are on there. Or am I mistaken? Am I missing it somewhere?
I just bought the DVD. Totally worth it.
what is the top picture from?
When Calls the Heart. 🙂
Crimson Field is great, as is Larkrise to Candleford.
I would love it if both were on Netflix. I haven’t seen Crimson Field yet, but Lark Rise is a definite favorite of mine.
World without End was also an amazing mini series. It focused during the time period of the 100 years war.
When I was narrowing it down to 25, I decided not to include this one, but thanks for bringing it up. Personally, I couldn’t get into it, but a lot may like it.
Surprised Peaky Blinders didn’t make the cut. While it may be a more rough and tumble than some of the titles that made the list it would seem to meet the criteria and from what I have feasted on so far, it’s delicious.
Also, for those who love their western setting, Hell on Wheels gives you a very “Sam Elliot” spirit in a leading man, strong female characters, along with grit and intrigue.
I have to admit that our site tends to prefer the less graphic period dramas, so while I included a few with adult content and gave a warning, I hoped they weren’t extremely graphic. Looking at the advisory of Peaky Blinders and seeing the excessive gore warning, I finally decided against it. The same for “Hell on Wheels,” but I admit to seeing neither if anyone wants to throw their two cents in.
Oh no I can totally understand that. I suppose I looked at it for the content in the context of the show and in that found that for ME personally it “fit.” Though I could totally understand why if others prefered to avoid that sort of content all together why the site or viewers would avoid the programs mentioned.
Hell on Wheels is in my top three all time favorites…great characters…yes some violence
Which show is the main article picture from? 🙂
Bomb Girls was horrible. Badly acted, I just could not get past the first episode even.
Yeah, not every one of these will be for everyone. I still want to give it a chance eventually, though it’s not on the top of my list.
i liked that one.
I watched Jewel in the Crown recently and hate to describe it so harshly but it was awful. The rape is only the tip of the iceberg and not even the most offensive part. There’s also torture with male nudity tossed into the mix and other very sexual scenarios. Not only that, there’s almost zero happiness involved in anyone’s life and it doesn’t really end that nicely. Just a heads up!
Thanks for letting me know. It’s hard to tell when you haven’t seen it. All I knew is that it won a ton of awards. Doesn’t sound like something I want to watch personally.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE VELVET! My Favorite show!
I’ve only watched a few episodes so far but I love it too!
Absolutely agree Velvet is the best from the cast to the music and all!
LOVE LOVE LOVE North & South!
Me too! I can never get enough.
Totally agree! The chemistry between Margaret and Mr. Thornton is just amazing! And the ending…….there are just no words to describe how wonderful it is.
Where’s Larkrise to Candleford? Definitely one of my favorites
No Lark Rise on Netflix. I wish! It’s one of my favorites too.
Out of all on the list, Dancing on the Edge was really one of my favorites, mystery, murder, and intrigue. I also enjoyed The Hour which was not included in this list but is worth the watch.Thanks for all of the recommendations.
I finally checked out Dancing on the Edge. It was really really good. And The Hour is amazing, just not on Netflix.
thanks for the recommendations! I am now a Heartie! When Calls the Heart is sooooo good! Even my oldest loves it.
Glad to hear it!
I love North & South; Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries (saw all 3 seasons), Father Brown (although not here) is often hilarious and still serious at same time. I’m starting to watch Velvet; saw till 2×6 of When calls the Heart (don’t know if they’re going on with the show).
If you enjoy a good period drama (even if it is in a foreign language) I suggest Elisa di Rivombrosa and La Dama Velata (both Italian fiction)…they’re lovely and I enjoyed every bit of them. Try looking them up (streaming), they’re from RAI fiction. Also Violetta; Anna Karenina; La Bella e la Bestia (all in Italian). From what I read there’s going to be an Italian version of The Grand Hotel, if I’m not mistaken.
Call a Midwife….wonderfully beautiful series.
As of today, Sept 1st, when I checked on Netflix, The Forsyte Saga isn’t available anymore.
Yeah, it expired. I’m going to update that.
Whats the show with the man in the red coat and the women in the blush dress? Its the image all the way at the top. Thanks!
I believe you are talking about When Calls the Heart.
Great list but its missing “El Tiempo Entre Costuras” (“The Time Between Seams”)
I gave up when you called The Bucaneers silly and fun. You’re entitled to your opinion, of course. However, I couldn’t finish this article after reading that comment.
I love that reign is #1 on this list! And, the paradise is another one of my favs 😉
My sister keeps telling me to watch Grand Hotel but I’m too scared because of how crazy addicted she became over it!! Lol. Perhaps sometime in the future. 😀
Grand Hotel was wonderful to watch. You’ll enjoy every single episode. Highly recommend.
The beauty of Mad Men is that, yes, whilst the characters are often unlikeable and frequently do terrible things, they’re probably the most multi-faceted and complex characters in any TV series ever. At its core it’s about a group of people who sell an idea of ‘happiness’ that they’re all desperately trying to attain for themselves. It’s a slow-burning show, but it can afford to be as the the writing and character development is so sharply drawn, nuanced and compelling. By the end you really do feel like they’re real people; people you know better than most of your actual friends and even family (as you’re privy to some of their most private moments). Plus, the costume and set design is stellar.
Should’ve been a lot higher on the list, in my opinion.
If you don’t mind reading subtitles I recommend The Grant Hotel & Seyit and Sura. But be prepared to become obsessed haha.
if only all this were available on Australian Netflix. I think we have less than half 🙁
Get the crap out of my way so I can READ what I CAME TO read.
Your description of “THE BUCANEERS” is a little off-putting. “A little bit soapy”? “Silly and fun to devour”? That’s your opinion? Huh.
Perhaps over dramatic and sometimes cheesy dialogue would suit better? We both love Edith Wharton but the adaptation did have a problematic script and directing which made it feel over dramatic at points. But we both enjoyed it overall. Perhaps you thought it was brilliant! We all interpret things differently. 🙂 But hey, on our site, silly and fun to devour is a compliment! We actually enjoy many “soaps” on this site. Sorry you found her comment (which had no ill-intent behind it) off-putting! And yes, that’s her opinion. But we always welcome friendly discussion!
When Calls the Heart is my favorite, just started North and South. Poldark is AMAZING, wish they’d put it on Netflix. Googled more does like Poldark and your blog came up. Thanks for recommendations I made a list.
Larkrise to Candleford is excellent!!! is it on Netflix?
I found A Place to Call Home and Last Tango in Halifax were two very good choices. Enjoy!!!
OUTLANDER the best.
I like poiriot (especially the older ones) a lot better then most crime shows. I haven’t seen most of the others though know my parents like folys war…
Please see if you can find “Tea with Mussolini”. I seldom watch a movie a second time, but I could re-watch this one until I have all the lines memorized! Set in Italy before and into WW11, the cast is a dream list of women… among others… Judy Dench, Lily Tomlin, Cher, Joan Plowright, Maggie Smith… It is not to be missed!…fabulous story and acting!