40 Classic Period Drama TV Series
40 titles
- 1
OutlanderTV · 2014 · 8 seasons · Drama, Sci-Fi & FantasyIn 1945, Claire Randall, a married combat nurse, is inexplicably transported to 1743 Scotland. Thrust into a dangerous and unfamiliar world, she finds herself forced to marry Jamie, a young Scottish warrior known for his honor and romance. Their union sparks a passionate love affair, leaving Claire torn between the man she married in her own time and the life she now lives.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.2 - 2
BridgertonTV · 2020 · 5 seasons · DramaIn Regency England, the wealthy and influential Bridgerton family navigates a world of desire, deceit, and broken trust.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.1 - 3
Downton AbbeyTV · 2010 · 6 seasons · DramaThis period drama follows the lives of the wealthy Crawley family and their household staff in early 1900s Britain. The series explores how major historical events – including World War I and the sinking of the Titanic – profoundly change the family's destiny and the entire British class system. It’s a story of love, loss, and political change, examining the complexities of class, ambition, and loyalty during a time of immense transformation.IMDb 8.7TMDB 8.1 - 4
Anne with an ETV · 2017 · 3 seasons · Drama, FamilyThis heartwarming story centers on a young orphan girl finding her way in rural America during the late 1800s. After a difficult childhood spent in various orphanages and foster homes, she's mistakenly taken in by an elderly woman and her brother. This unexpected family discovers that the lively 13-year-old Anne brings excitement to their quiet lives and has a remarkable ability to inspire change in their small town with her vivid imagination and sharp mind. Anne’s journey shows how love, acceptance, and community can transform lives, highlighting the strength of the human spirit in the face of hardship.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.7 - 5
RomeTV · 2005 · 2 seasons · Action & Adventure, DramaThis series offers a realistic look at life in ancient Rome during the late Roman Republic. It explores not just the famous senators and generals, but also the lives of everyday Romans. Viewers will witness both the splendor and the political intrigue, alongside the daily challenges faced by people living in this era. The story is rich with detail, from opulent feasts to lively markets, providing a vivid glimpse into Roman society. Power struggles, personal desires, and shifting social norms are woven together in this captivating narrative, creating a truly immersive experience.IMDb 8.7TMDB 8.2 - 6
Band of BrothersTV · 2001 · 1 seasons · Drama, War & Politics"Band of Brothers" is a powerful, true story miniseries following an elite American unit through World War II. The story is told through the eyes of those who lived it, making it incredibly real. We begin with their intense training in Georgia, and then follow these young men as they're thrown into the war.
From the D-Day parachute jump into Normandy to the brutal Battle of the Bulge, the soldiers of Easy Company faced impossible odds and terrible dangers. Their bond grew stronger as they fought for survival and for the freedoms their country represents. Based on Stephen E. Ambrose’s acclaimed book, this series vividly brings these stories of courage and sacrifice to life, offering a deeply emotional look at war and brotherhood.IMDb 9.4TMDB 8.6 - 7
Wolf HallTV · 2015 · 2 seasons · DramaEngland, 1500. King Henry VIII's desperate bid to divorce Queen Catherine and marry Anne Boleyn throws the court and Europe into turmoil. Thomas Cromwell, a shrewd and perceptive advisor, must navigate this dangerous game. Torn between his principles and ambition, he dedicates himself to fulfilling the King's wishes, maneuvering through shifting alliances and fierce rivalries. But Henry's unpredictable temper threatens everything – their ambitions, and their very survival. This historical drama meticulously details the power plays, personal desires, and sacrifices demanded by unwavering loyalty during a time of immense upheaval.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 8
Black SailsTV · 2014 · 4 seasons · Drama, Action & AdventureTwenty years before "Treasure Island," this action-packed prequel explores the dangerous world of Captain Flint and his pirates. It follows Flint, a brilliant but ruthless captain, as he meets John Silver, a sharp new arrival. Together, they fight to survive amidst the lawless chaos of New Providence Island, a haven for criminals during the Enlightenment. The story reveals the complex relationships within a pirate crew and the strange mix of sophisticated ideas and brutal realities that shaped this infamous island and its people – a thrilling tale of adventure, loyalty, and peril.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6 - 9
Babylon BerlinTV · 2017 · 5 seasons · Drama, Crime, MysteryBerlin, 1929: A city of dazzling wealth and secret corruption. Detective Gereon Rath, haunted by his past, is transferred from Cologne to investigate the city's complicated problems during the Roaring Twenties – a time of huge political and social change. He must navigate a world of crime, lies, and peril, facing Berlin’s dark side while battling his own inner struggles, risking everything to fight for justice in a rapidly changing world.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.7 - 10
PoldarkTV · 2015 · 5 seasons · DramaBritain is in crisis. It’s 1783, and the country struggles with recession as wages fall and prices rise, fueling growing unrest. Only the wealthy seem to thrive. Ross Poldark returns from the American War to find his home in Cornwall shattered: his father is dead, the family mine is closed, and his intended bride is engaged to his cousin.
Against a backdrop of hardship, Ross discovers strength, hope, and unexpected love amidst Cornwall’s wild beauty. His journey is a struggle for survival, exploring human resilience and connection during a turbulent time. He navigates despair to find renewal as he rebuilds his life, facing adversity head-on.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8 - 11
Masters of SexTV · 2013 · 4 seasons · DramaThis dramatic series follows William Masters and Virginia Johnson, groundbreaking researchers who transformed how we understand sex. Starting at a Midwestern teaching hospital, these exceptional people quickly become famous for revolutionizing society's view of intimacy and desire.
Masters, a scientist, struggles with emotional distance, while Johnson, a single mother striving for professional success, challenges traditional expectations by juggling her career with motherhood. They navigate their unique partnership, exploring the complexities of love and teamwork as they spark the sexual revolution and achieve widespread recognition – appearing in magazines like Time and on shows like Johnny Carson's.
The series offers an intimate look at their lives, relationships, and surprising journey to pop culture fame, examining themes of personal development, societal shifts, and the importance of human connection in a changing world.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.1 - 12
The Gilded AgeTV · 2022 · 4 seasons · DramaNew York City, 1882. At the height of the Gilded Age, young Marian Brook, an orphan and the daughter of a Southern general, arrives to live with her traditional aunts and is thrust into the dazzling world of the city's wealthy elite. She develops a close friendship with Peggy Scott, a sharp African-American woman who secretly works as her maid. Together, they navigate the elaborate customs and strict expectations of high society. As Marian grapples with societal pressures and her own desires, she confronts the challenges of love, ambition, and finding herself in a world of hidden truths and constant change.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7 - 13
Miss Fisher's Murder MysteriesTV · 2012 · 3 seasons · Crime, Drama, MysteryMelbourne, 1920s. Meet Phryne Fisher, a brilliant and daring private investigator who operates in the city's hidden world of jazz and intrigue. Armed with wit, a pearl-handled pistol, and an unwavering determination, she fearlessly fights for what's right, captivating everyone she meets. Based on Kerry Greenwood’s popular novels, this series follows Phryne as she breaks boundaries and embraces life's thrilling adventures.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6 - 14
ManhattanTV · 2014 · 2 seasons · Drama, War & PoliticsSet in Los Alamos, New Mexico, during the race to build the first atomic bomb, this film follows a group of complex scientists and their families. They struggle with the constant secrecy and deception that define their lives as they work toward a monumental goal under immense pressure. The relentless pursuit of this project strains relationships and tests loyalties, revealing the human cost of their ambition and the sacrifices they make. It’s a gripping story exploring themes of loyalty, ambition, and sacrifice at the heart of a pivotal moment in history.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0 - 15
Mr SelfridgeTV · 2013 · 4 seasons · Drama"Mr. Selfridge" tells the story of Harry Gordon Selfridge, the energetic founder of London's famous Selfridges department store in 1909. As women begin to embrace a more modern life, Selfridge – nicknamed "Mile a Minute Harry" – has a bold plan: to make shopping exciting and romantic.
He envisions Selfridges as a vibrant stage showcasing new ideas, captivating fashions, and unusual treasures. Selfridge's daring spirit and infectious enthusiasm revolutionize retail, transforming shopping into an entertaining spectacle that forever changes the industry.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 16
SanditonTV · 2019 · 3 seasons · DramaCharlotte Heywood, a spirited young woman eager for a fresh start, leaves her peaceful home for the exciting new town of Sanditon. She arrives to find a small fishing village determined to become a thriving seaside resort. As Charlotte explores this changing community, she meets a diverse cast of characters, all caught up in Sanditon's ambitious transformation. The story explores personal growth, community building, and the irresistible pull of change, all set against the beautiful coastal backdrop of Sanditon.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 17
War and PeaceTV · 2016 · 1 seasons · DramaSet during the reign of Tsar Alexander I, this period drama explores the connected lives of five Russian noble families, revealing their relationships, ambitions, and personal battles. A central love triangle forms between Natasha Rostova, Pierre Bezukhov, and Andrei Bolkonsky. The series vividly depicts the emotional challenges and social pressures surrounding love, loyalty, and finding oneself in a time when rank and tradition are paramount. We follow each character as they navigate a changing society, trying to reconcile personal desires with their obligations, passion with proper behavior, and ultimately carve out their own destinies within the world of wealth and intrigue.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6 - 18
DeutschlandTV · 2015 · 3 seasons · DramaSet against the backdrop of Germany's turbulent 1980s, this intense story follows Martin Rauch, a quick-witted 24-year-old from East Germany. He's unexpectedly sent to the West as a Stasi agent, tasked with infiltrating the West German army. Stationed within NATO operations, Martin's mission is to steal crucial information about their military plans.
In this dangerous new world, nothing is as it seems. Every interaction is loaded with hidden meaning, and everyone around him is potentially deceptive. As Martin tries to maintain his cover, he must uncover the secrets of those around him while guarding his own. Relationships become complicated by suspicion, and loyalty is constantly tested.
This gripping drama explores one young man's journey through a period of immense political change, examining themes of identity, trust, and survival in a world where no one can be trusted.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4 - 19
Vienna BloodTV · 2019 · 4 seasons · Crime, Drama, MysteryVienna, early 1900s. A series of brutal murders rocks the city's elegant world, with the crime scenes – grand cafes, opera houses – leaving police stumped. Detective Rheinhardt, a veteran investigator, struggles to find a lead until he meets Max Liebermann, a sharp student of Sigmund Freud.
Liebermann offers a unique psychological perspective, challenging traditional police work as they investigate. The killer proves to be incredibly clever and deeply disturbed.
The series vividly recreates Vienna's golden age while delivering suspense, psychological depth, and chilling crime. Rheinhardt and Liebermann, an unlikely pair with contrasting skills, forge a partnership that will keep viewers captivated until the shocking conclusion.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 20
BelgraviaTV · 2020 · 1 seasons · DramaSet in the lavish world of 1840s London, this drama explores a tangled network of secrets and scandals within the city's wealthiest circles. It begins with an invitation to the Duchess of Richmond's famous ball the night before the Battle of Waterloo. Attending are the Trenchards, whose presence triggers a series of events with lasting consequences as long-hidden truths begin to surface. The story contrasts the grandeur of London's elite with the complex relationships and concealed motives playing out behind closed doors, offering a compelling look at societal expectations and personal ambitions during a time of great transformation.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 21
The Last TycoonTV · 2017 · 1 seasons · Drama"The Last Tycoon" explores the exciting world of early Hollywood, following Monroe Stahr, a determined film executive navigating the pressures of his powerful boss, Pat Brady. The story unfolds during the Great Depression and the growing threat of Nazi Germany, weaving together themes of passion, violence, and immense ambition against the backdrop of a rapidly changing industry. Based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's unfinished novel, the series offers an intimate look at Hollywood at its most powerful and vulnerable.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 22
Alias GraceTV · 2017 · 1 seasons · Crime, DramaIn 1843, Irish housemaid Grace Marks is imprisoned for the murder of her employer, Thomas Kinnear. She insists she has no memory of the event, leaving the truth unknown. Decades later, Dr. Simon Jordan investigates Grace's past, searching for answers that could prove her innocence or expose a hidden reality. This compelling story explores memory, guilt, and human nature, revisiting the infamous case that has haunted everyone involved for years.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2 - 23
Gentleman JackTV · 2019 · 2 seasons · DramaHalifax, West Yorkshire, 1832. Anne Lister is determined to revive her family home, Shibden Hall. But her plans go beyond simply restoring the house; she's forging a new future for herself and her family by pursuing a relationship with someone of the same gender – a radical choice for the era. This period drama explores societal expectations and the strength of individual will against hardship, offering a detailed glimpse into life in the early 19th century English countryside.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8 - 24
EmmaTV · 2009 · 1 seasons · Drama, ComedyEmma, a well-meaning but interfering woman, loves to meddle in other people’s love lives. She takes it upon herself to guide Harriet Smith, a young woman searching for romance. But Emma’s attempts to orchestrate happiness backfire, leading to unexpected complications that impact everyone around them. The series is a witty and heartfelt exploration of friendship, love, and finding yourself, showing how even the best intentions can have unforeseen consequences and the importance of trusting your own judgment.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6 - 25
Lost in AustenTV · 2008 · 1 seasons · DramaA modern woman discovers a mysterious portal in her bathroom that sends her into the world of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." She finds herself as the contemporary Amanda within the Bennet family, and her arrival begins to alter the familiar story.
Amanda struggles to adjust to the customs of Regency England, and her attempts to apply her modern perspective create surprising and disruptive effects on the Bennet family. This blend of historical fiction and time travel explores themes of self-discovery, societal shifts, and love's enduring power.
As the story progresses, Amanda and those she meets experience profound changes, intertwining their lives in unexpected ways. The series balances humor, drama, and reflection to offer a captivating look at personal choice and the complexities of relationships throughout history.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 26
Mrs WilsonTV · 2018 · 1 seasons · DramaWidow Alison finds her quiet life shattered when mysteries from her late husband Alexander's past begin to surface. Alexander, she discovers, was a former Secret Intelligence operative with secrets he never revealed – secrets now unraveling and endangering them both. As Alison investigates, she uncovers a world of danger far beyond anything she could have imagined. The story is a suspenseful exploration of trust, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to shield those they love from painful truths.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 27
Mildred PierceTV · 2011 · 1 seasons · Drama"Mildred Pierce is a moving story about a mother's fierce dedication and sacrifices during the Great Depression. The film follows Mildred as she rebuilds her life after leaving her husband. She unexpectedly starts her own restaurant and becomes involved with a complicated man. The story centers on Mildred’s fight to gain the love and respect of her demanding, spoiled daughter. It’s a look at the difficult balance between a mother's love and the hardships women faced during a time of economic crisis. The film subtly explores themes of strength, social class, and the complexities of relationships, leaving a lasting impression."IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0 - 28
ShōgunTV · 1980 · 1 seasons · Action & Adventure, Drama, War & PoliticsSet in 16th century Japan, this historical adventure follows an Englishman caught in the country's dangerous power struggles. He’s a crucial figure, yet also manipulated, as he tries to survive amidst shifting alliances and hidden agendas. Using his intelligence, adaptability, and knowledge of Eastern culture, he navigates a world of political intrigue. The story explores cultural clashes, political games, and the impact of foreign involvement during a time of upheaval, forcing him to learn new ways to survive. It’s a gripping tale of survival in a turbulent and fascinating world.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6 - 29
Pride and PrejudiceTV · 1995 · 1 seasons · DramaIn early 19th century England, "Pride and Prejudice" follows the lives of the five Bennet sisters as they try to find husbands. The arrival of the wealthy Mr. Bingley and his proud friend Mr. Darcy sets off a chain of events. Bingley is immediately taken with Jane, the eldest Bennet sister, but Darcy clashes with Elizabeth, the witty second eldest. The story explores love, social standing, and self-discovery as the sisters navigate their world. A timeless classic, "Pride and Prejudice" continues to captivate audiences with its sharp look at society and human nature.IMDb 8.8TMDB 8.2 - 30
CranfordTV · 2007 · 2 seasons · DramaIn 1840s Cranford, a picturesque English town, life is about to change. This heartwarming and funny drama, inspired by Elizabeth Gaskell's novels, follows the lives of its diverse residents as they navigate new challenges. The series captures the town’s close-knit community, their resilience, and sharp humor as they face an uncertain future. Prepare for moments of laughter and sadness, and a reminder of the enduring strength of people in the face of hardship.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.2 - 31
North & SouthTV · 2004 · 1 seasons · DramaMargaret Hale, uprooted from a quiet country life, finds herself in the bustling industrial town of Milton. There, she clashes with John Thornton, a driven mill owner whose strength mirrors her own stubbornness. When a bitter strike divides the community, Margaret unexpectedly aligns with the workers, intensifying their conflict. Amidst escalating tensions, Margaret is surprised to discover feelings for Thornton...IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1 - 32
Jane EyreTV · 2006 · 1 seasons · DramaCharlotte Brontë’s beloved novel tells of an orphaned young woman who becomes a governess at a somber estate in Yorkshire, and finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Edward Rochester.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.7 - 33
Upstairs DownstairsTV · 2010 · 2 seasons · DramaSet in 1936, the series transports audiences to the opulent world of Belgravia, London. A new family occupies 165 Eaton Place, and viewers witness how the social and personal pressures of the turbulent pre-war era impact their lives and those of their servants.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 34
The BuccaneersTV · 1995 · 1 seasons · DramaExcluded from New York’s elite circles because of their families' wealth, four American women seek acceptance in London. Governess Laura Testvalley proposes a traditional season, sending the young women to England and into the path of the unsuspecting aristocracy. Soon, each girl finds a potential match, but youngest Nan appears to have captured the most desirable prize: Julius, the handsome and wealthy Duke of Trevennick. However, the girls quickly realize that English nobility isn’t what they imagined.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.8 - 35
Wives and DaughtersTV · 1999 · 1 seasons · DramaMolly Gibson’s quiet life is subtly upended when her widowed father remarries. A strict new stepmother and charming stepsister, Cynthia, enter the household, and a budding friendship with the local landowner sparks an unforeseen romance.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.3 - 36
Bomb GirlsTV · 2012 · 2 seasons · Drama, War & PoliticsThis ensemble drama follows a group of women working in a munitions factory during World War II, portraying their challenges and newfound independence.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2 - 37
A Place to Call HomeTV · 2013 · 6 seasons · Drama, SoapA mysterious woman finds herself caught between the shadow of World War II and the promise of a fresh start in Australia. This sweeping romantic drama follows the Blighs, a wealthy and complex farming family, as they navigate life in 1950s rural Australia, specifically Inverness, NSW.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.3 - 38
The Last PostTV · 2017 · 1 seasons · Drama, War & PoliticsA drama series set in the 1960s following a unit of Royal Military Police officers and their families as they navigate political tensions, relationships, and the realities of war in British-controlled Aden.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.6 - 39
Home FiresTV · 2015 · 2 seasons · Comedy, DramaThe story follows a group of remarkable women in a rural Cheshire community, living under the growing shadow of World War II. As conflict divides families—husbands, fathers, sons, brothers—they face immense pressures in a world falling apart. United as the Great Paxford Women’s Institute, they strive to hold their nation together and uncover hidden strengths that will transform their lives forever.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.3 - 40
AristocratsTV · 1999 · 1 seasons · DramaInspired by a true story, Aristocrats unveils the lives of an affluent 18th-century English family, exposing a world of romance, prejudice, infidelity, and revolution.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.2
