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76 Period Dramas on BritBox: One or More Added Each Day in December

BritBox added dozens of period dramas to their streaming service throughout December. Here is the complete list!

period dramas on britbox

Calling all British period drama fans, if you haven’t checked out BritBox yet, a newer streaming service focused on British television, December is the perfect month to do it. Since the beginning of this month, BritBox has been adding one or more period dramas every day to their streaming service for a period drama month during the holiday season.

From beloved favorites like North & South to Persuasion, and even Downton Abbey (added on Boxing Day), there are plenty of excellent period dramas on BritBox to watch. It’s the perfect Christmas and New Year’s present during these difficult times.

Now, this December list doesn’t include the period dramas already on BritBox. So, expect to find many more period dramas on the British streaming service on top of the list of titles new to BritBox in December 2020 (including the restored 4k edition of Pride and Prejudice starring Colin Firth). 

RELATED: The Top 35 Period Dramas To Satisfy Your Poldark Addiction

Below, we’ve included the complete list of all 76 period dramas new to BritBox in December in order of release. Enjoy!

NOTE: We have not reviewed every title and do not know if some of these titles include explicit content or not.

Sign up for BritBox HERE (there is a 7-day free trial).


PERIOD DRAMA MONTH: 76 PERIOD DRAMAS ON BRITBOX


1. Dandelion Dead (1994) – Added December 1st, 2020.

Dandelion Dead Poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: The BAFTA-winning true story of a Welsh lawyer who finds himself in the middle of what would become one of Britain’s most infamous murder trials.

Why You Should Watch: Dandelion Dead stars Michael Kitchen of Foyle’s War. If you love period dramas with mystery or true crime dramatizations, this one’s for you. David Thewlis, Sarah Miles, Diana Quick, and Lesley Sharp also star.

2. Life in Squares (2015)Added December 1st, 2020.

Life in squares poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: The electrifying story of sisters Vanessa Bell and Virginia Woolf, who escape to a new life of unexpected freedom. After arriving in the bohemian Bloomsbury area of London, they join the influential Bloomsbury group, a controversial coterie of progressive artists and intellectuals who defy the conventions of Victorian England.

Why You Should Watch: If you’re fascinated by the Bloomsbury group, this sounds like an intriguing biopic. Plus, James Norton and Rupert Penry-Jones star.

3. Love in a Cold Climate (2001)Added December 1st, 2020.

Love in a Cold Climate DVD poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Three young women search for love as they grow out of their care-free youth and into adulthood in this adaptation of Nancy Mitford’s novel.

Why You Should Watch: Rosamund Pike stars in this lavish adaptation. Fans of Downton Abbey should like this one.

4. Room at the Top (2012) – Added December 1st, 2020.

Room at the Top bbc poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Young Joe Lampton must choose between his love for a married woman and the stability offered by a life with the beautiful daughter of an industrial magnate.

Why You Should Watch: Period drama favorites Jenna Coleman (Victoria) and Matthew McNulty (Lark Rise to Candleford, The Paradise) star in what sounds like a must-watch period drama.

5. The Cazalets (2001)Added December 1st, 2020.

The Cazalets poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Amid dramatic change and upheaval in WWII-era England, discover the privilege, prestige, and hidden secrets of the Cazalet dynasty.

Why You Should Watch: Hugh Bonneville stars in this miniseries adaptation of Elizabeth Jane Howard’s novels.

6. The Way We Live Now (2001) – Added December 1st, 2020.

The Way We live Now DVD cover

Official BritBox Synopsis: Dave Suchet and Cillian Murphy star in Anthony Trollope’s epic Victorian tale exhibiting the trials and tribulations of love, honor, and greed. Set in the railway boom of the 1870s, the old order faces turmoil as it is swept aside by the brash new forces of business and finance.

Why You Should Watch: This is an underrated period drama, for sure! Besides the brilliant ensemble cast, it’s also a fascinating story.

7. North & South (2004)Added December 1st, 2020.

North and South 2004 promotional image
Daniela Denby Ashe (Margaret Hale) – Courtesy of BritBox

Official BritBox Synopsis: Elizabeth Gaskell’s tale of love across social divides is brought to life in Sandy Welch’s four-part adaptation. When Margaret Hale exchanges her middle-class rural life for a northern mill town, she witnesses the hardships of the poor working class firsthand and develops contempt for mill owner John Thornton.

Why You Should Watch: If you haven’t seen North & South yet, then now is a perfect time. It is one of the best period dramas ever made and includes an epic romance you won’t want to miss. Richard Armitage gives Colin Firth a run for his money for the best romantic leading man.

8. Heading Home (1991)Added December 1st, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: Drawn to the Bohemian literary crowd of post-war Soho, Janetta Wheatland becomes involved with two men from very different worlds.

Why You Should Watch: This little known period drama stars a young Gary Oldman! The Oscar-nominated filmmaker, David Hare, also wrote and directed it.

9. The Night Watch (2011)Added December 1st, 2020.

The Night Watch 2011 poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Linked by their wartime experiences, four young Londoners in the 1940s discover new freedom and must make peace with their past in order to build their future.

Why You Should Watch: The cast, including Claire Foy, Anna Maxwell Martin, Jodie Whittaker, JJ Feild, and even Phoebe Waller-Bridge, makes watching this lesser-known historical film worth it.

10. The Other Boleyn Girl (2003)Added December 1st, 2020.

The Other Bolelyn Girl 2003

Official BritBox Synopsis: This tale of passion and royal intrigue depicts the story of Mary Boleyn, King Henry VIII’s mistress before he married her elder sister Anne.

Why You Should Watch: This is an excellent adaptation of Phillipa Gregory’s historical fiction novel.

11. Theatre Night: Lady Windermere’s Fan (1985) Added December 1st, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: From the wit and wisdom of Oscar Wilde comes the story of Margaret Windermere, a wife doubtful of her husband’s fidelity when he begins spending time with another woman.

Why You Should Watch: If you appreciate the wit of Oscar Wilde, you’ll likely enjoy this award-winning production of his famous play.

12. Under the Greenwood Tree (2005) Added December 1st, 2020.

Under the Greenwood Tree poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: In this lighthearted Thomas Hardy romance, the beautiful new village school teacher is pursued by three suitors: a working-class man, a landowner, and the vicar.

Why You Should Watch: Keeley Hawes shines in this entertaining and playful Thomas Hardy adaptation. It’s romantic and sweet.

13. My Family and Other Animals (2005)Added December 2nd, 2020.

My Family and other animals 2005

Official BritBox Synopsis: Based on Gerald Durrell’s renowned autobiography, the eccentric Durrell family experience the joys of living a life of freedom and adventure.

Why You Should Watch: Fans of The Durrells in Corfu won’t want to miss this other version of the same story. Plus, Matthew Goode stars in it!

14. Middlemarch (1994) Added December 2nd, 2020.

Middlemarch DVD poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: George Eliot’s tale of provincial life on the brink of momentous change, where the Industrial Revolution will split a town into two opposing factions.

Why You Should Watch: Rufus Sewell and Juliet Aubrey star in this brilliant adaptation of George Eliot’s classic story. It’s full of romance, heartache, and all-around fantastic storytelling.

15. A Royal Scandal (1996) Added December 2nd, 2020.

a royal scandal 1996

Official BritBox Synopsis: Richard E. Grant stars in this true story of bitterness and betrayal, where a royal marriage, entered into for all the wrong reasons, falls apart.

Why You Should Watch: Regency fans won’t want to miss the tale of the Prince Regent himself.

16. Anna of the Five Towns (1985) Added December 3rd, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: The daughter of a rich widower struggles to cope with newfound wealth, blossoming love, and independence from her domineering father.

Why You Should Watch: While I haven’t seen this miniseries, I do know it’s based on a 1902 novel by Arnold Bennett. It sounds like an intriguing story.

17. Mansfield Park (1983)  Added December 4th, 2020.

Mansfield Park 1983

Official BritBox Synopsis: In Jane Austen’s witty Regency romance, impoverished Fanny is sent to live with her more affluent uncle and struggles for acceptance by her shallow relatives.

Why You Should Watch: Some viewers prefer this adaptation over the more popular ones from 1999 and 2007.

18. Northanger Abbey (1987) Added December 4th, 2020.

northanger abbey
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: A young woman with a taste for melodrama and romance is invited to stay with the affluent Tilney family, where she learns a sinister family secret.

Why You Should Watch: While a bit melodramatic, Peter Firth makes for a convincing Mr. Tilney.

19. Emma (1972)  Added December 5th, 2020.

Emma 1972

Official BritBox Synopsis: Adapted from Jane Austen’s celebrated novel, Emma Woodhouse meddles in the love lives of all of her friends, though she is often mistaken in her judgment. She is counseled and criticized by her brother-in-law, Mr. Knightley, whose attentions are motivated by more than just brotherly love.

Why You Should Watch: Fans of Jane Austen should appreciate this comedic adaptation of her famous novel.

20. Persuasion (2007)  Added December 5th, 2020.

Persuasion (2007)
Photo: ITV

Official BritBox Synopsis: Anne Elliot is pressured by her parents to turn away her true love due to his lack of status or wealth. Years later, he returns from sea, a successful naval officer, which salts the wound on Anne’s heart.

Why You Should Watch: Rupert Penry-Jones is swoon-worthy as Captain Wentworth. Plus, Sally Hawkins gives a believable, emotional performance.

21. Pride and Prejudice (1980)  Added December 6th, 2020.

Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice 1980
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: While Mrs. Bennet frantically tries to find husbands for her five daughters, willful and strong-minded Elizabeth Bennet matches wits with haughty Mr. Darcy.

Why You Should Watch: This is an accurate adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and worth watching if you love the story.

22. Sense and Sensibility (1981) Added December 7th, 2020.

Sense and Sensibility 1981
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: Two sisters with differing attitudes to life and love navigate their romantic lives in a society obsessed with wealth and status.

Why You Should Watch: While a bit heavy-handed with the themes, this is a good and faithful adaptation of Austen’s novel.

23. Sense and Sensibility (2008)  Added December 7th, 2020.

Sense and Sensibility 2008
Hattie Morahan (Elinor Dashwood) and Charity Wakefield (Marianne Dashwood) – Courtesy of BritBox

Official BritBox Synopsis: Two sisters learn what it takes to find love and happiness in a restrictive high society, where wealth and status trump all.

Why You Should Watch: It is “almost” as good as the 1995 adaptation starring Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet. This one follows the novel faithfully while adding in some modern touches. It is romantic with a brilliant cast, including Hattie Morahan and Dan Stevens.

24. The Lady Vanishes (2013) – Added December 8th, 2020.

The Lady Vanishes - BBC
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: Iris Carr befriends an older woman while traveling solo by train. When Iris wakes from a nap, the woman is gone and other passengers claim she never existed.

Why You Should Watch: See a young Tom Hughes (Victoria) in this entertaining period drama.

25. Madame Bovary (1975) – Added December 9th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: Gustave Flaubert’s tale of a bored housewife whose yearning for excitement leads to ruin, heartbreak, and tragedy.

Why You Should Watch: Francesca Annis shines in this lesser-known adaptation.

26. Madame Bovary (2000)  Added December 9th, 2020.

Madame Bovary 2000 poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Gustave Flaubert’s story of the quest for fulfillment in love. When Emma Bovary feels constrained by married life, she seeks excitement elsewhere.

Why You Should Watch: Period drama favorites including Frances O’Connor, Greg Wise, Eileen Atkins, Hugh Dancy, and Hugh Bonneville star in this adaptation.

27. Daniel Deronda (2002)  Added December 10th, 2020.

Daniel Deronda
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: In George Eliot’s love story, the spirited Gwendolen Harleth falls for a sensitive, intelligent young man, haunted by the secrets that surround his birth.

Why You Should Watch: Hugh Dancy and Romola Garai sizzle on screen together in a brilliant adaptation of Eliot’s classic novel. This is one of the best period dramas on the list.

28. Fanny by Gaslight (1981)  Added December 10th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: Michael Sadleir’s lurid story of romance, scandal, and jealousy, set against a background of depravity in Victorian London’s demi-monde of the 1870s.

Why You Should Watch: I don’t know much about this one, but it sounds promising!

29. Catherine Cookson’s The Glass Virgin  Added December 11th, 2020.

The Glass Virgin 1995 poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Living a life of luxury, Annabella Lagange is blissfully unaware that her father Edmund is a wastrel and a womanizer, with debts threatening to ruin the wealthy family into which he married. Also unbeknownst to her is a life-shattering secret that looms over her and her family.

Why You Should Watch: You’ll recognize a young Emily Mortimer and Brendan Coyle in this Catherine Cookson adaptation.

30. Catherine Cookson’s The Secret  Added December 11th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Secret poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Set among the atmospheric streets of 19th century Tyneside, Freddie Musgrave’s life is thrown into turmoil when a letter implicates him in a murder in this tale of suspense and intrigue. Further complications arise due to Freddie’s feelings for his boss’s foster daughter, Belle, who is trapped in a loveless marriage with a madman.

Why You Should Watch: The appealing Stephen Moyer stars in this period drama from Catherine Cookson!

31. Catherine Cookson’s The Wingless Bird  Added December 11th, 2020.

catherine cookson's the wingless bird poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: As Britain is on the brink of WWI, three very different families are linked by the strong-minded Agnes Conway in this story of perseverance and love across class divides.

Why You Should Watch: If you’re in the mood for romance, and you enjoy Catherine Cookson novels, this one is for you!

32. Catherine Cookson’s Tilly Trotter  Added December 11th, 2020.

catherine cookson's tilly trotter poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Set in the picturesque countryside of 1930’s England, a beautiful young woman must rise above poverty and the prejudice she faces in her community.

Why You Should Watch: If you don’t mind some tragedy and enjoy bodice-rippers, then you’ll likely appreciate this adaptation.

33. Catherine Cookson’s A Dinner of Herbs  Added December 12th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's A Dinner of Herbs poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Roddy and Hal are just boys when both their fathers are murdered. As the decades pass by, they discover painful secrets from the past.

Why You Should Watch: If you enjoy stories with a bit of murder and romance, then this miniseries is for you.

34. Catherine Cookson’s Colour Blind – Added December 12th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's Colour Blind poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Bridget Paterson shocks her intolerant family when she brings home an African sailor, and she must learn to cope with the bigotry surrounding her.

Why You Should Watch: Set during World War I, this is an intriguing story about an interracial romance and how the couple deals with the prejudice around them.

35. Catherine Cookson’s The Moth  Added December 12th, 2020.

catherine cookson's the moth poster with justine waddell

Official BritBox Synopsis: In early 1900’s England, a carpenter leaves the shipyards for a job in his uncle’s business, and life in the country is not as idyllic as he had imagined.

Why You Should Watch: Justine Waddell (Wives and Daughters) and Jack Davenport (Pirates of the Caribbean) star in this Catherine Cookson adaptation.

36. Catherine Cookson’s The Cinder Path  Added December 13th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Cinder Path poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Romantically involved with two sisters, a farmer’s son seeking redemption goes off to fight in WWI and must face the enemy as well as his demons.

Why You Should Watch: A young Catherine Zeta-Jones stars in this historical war romance.

37. Catherine Cookson’s The Dwelling Place  Added December 13th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's the dwelling place poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: A young girl must care for her 5 younger siblings following her parents’ death and is challenged when the aristocratic Fischel family takes an unwelcome interest.

Why You Should Watch: If you love period dramas set during the Victorian period, give this one a try!

38. Catherine Cookson’s The Rag Nymph  Added December 13th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's the rag nymph poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: “Raggie Aggie” Winkowski takes in the young Millie Forrester, abandoned in the cold streets by her mother.

Why You Should Watch: This period drama shows the harsh realities of the 19th century. If you watch, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Crispin Bonham-Carter (Pride and Prejudice) and a young Honeysuckle Weeks (Foyle’s War).

39. Catherine Cookson’s The Gambling Man  Added December 14th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Gambling Man Poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Feeling trapped by the slums of South Shields, Rory Connor tries his hand at gambling to get what he wants out of life – but the luck of a gambler goes both ways.

Why You Should Watch: Robson Green of Grantchester stars in this period drama set during the 19th century.

40. Catherine Cookson’s The Round Tower  Added December 14th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Round Tower DVD poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: The poor son of a house maid is determined to find success and win the love of Vanessa, the daughter of a wealthy family who is alienated by her social-climbing parents.

Why You Should Watch: Emilia Fox and Ben Miles star in this period romance set in 1950s Newcastle.

41. Catherine Cookson’s The Fifteen Streets (1989)  Added December 14th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Fifteen Streets with Sean Bean

Official BritBox Synopsis: In this romance starring Sean Bean and Owen Teale, a rugged laborer and the daughter of a wealthy shipbuilder struggle to find love across class divides.

Why You Should Watch: Sean Bean, of course.

42. Catherine Cookson’s The Girl  Added December 15th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Girl

Official BritBox Synopsis: A dying woman delivers her daughter to the home of her former lover, Mr Thornton, and his wife is not pleased with the new arrangement.

Why You Should Watch: If you don’t mind all the suffering, you might enjoy this popular Catherine Cookson adaptation about a young woman overcoming numerous hardships.

43. Catherine Cookson’s The Man Who Cried  Added December 15th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Man Who Cried

Official BritBox Synopsis: Set during the turbulent times of the 1930’s Depression and WWII, Abel Mason searches for happiness for himself and his young son.

Why You Should Watch: Ciarán Hinds and Amanda Root from Persuasion star in this Depression-era romance.

44. Catherine Cookson’s The Tide of Life  Added December 15th, 2020.

Catherine Cookson's The Tide of Life poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: The lively and unconventional young Emily Kennedy learns valuable lessons about life and love in her relationships with three very different men.

Why You Should Watch: If you love Victorian romances and melodrama, check this one out.

45. Jane Eyre (1983)  Added December 16th, 2020.

1983 jane eyre promotional image
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: Charlotte Bronte’s enduring romance about a governess who falls for her troubled, yet kind-spirited master, only to discover a heartbreaking reality.

Why You Should Watch: Timothy Dalton understands how to play a Byronic Hero better than anyone; also, this happens to be one of the best adaptations of Jane Eyre. For more reasons to watch this period drama gem, go to my article: 10 Fantastic Reasons to Watch the 1983 Jane Eyre adaptation.

46. The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (1996)  Added December 16th, 2020.

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: After moving to a remote village, a widow remains mysteriously silent about her past – until she becomes the focus of malicious village gossip.

Why You Should Watch: This is an underrated period drama starring Toby Stephens and Tara Fitzgerald.

47. Wuthering Heights (1978) – Added December 16th, 2020.

Wuthering Heights 1978 poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Emily Brontë’s unforgettable story of jealousy, revenge, and the destructive passion of lovers Heathcliff and Cathy.

Why You Should Watch: I haven’t seen this lesser-known adaptation yet, but it sounds promising! All adaptations of Wuthering Heights are worth watching once since it’s such an incredible classic story.

48. Tess of the D’Urbervilles (2008)  Added December 17th, 2020.

Tess of the D'urbervilles 2008 promotional image
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: Gemma Arterton and Eddie Redmayne star in this modern version of Thomas Hardy’s provocative novel. The innocent, impoverished Tess Durbeyfield is driven to claim kinship with the wealthy Alec D’Urberville, who is different from how she had imagined. In time, she meets a very different man, Angel Clare, who seems to offer her love and salvation – but Tess must decide if she will reveal her past.

Why You Should Watch: The cast is excellent, and the adaptation near perfect. You won’t want to miss this period drama despite the tragedy of the story.

49. The House of Eliott (1991)  Added December 17th, 2020.

The House of Eliot

Official BritBox Synopsis: From the creators of Upstairs, Downstairs, this award-winning drama chronicles the rise of a haute couture fashion house in 1920’s London, founded by two talented and determined sisters.

Why You Should Watch: If you’re looking for an addictive, fashionable, soapy period drama, check out this series from the early ’90s.

50. A Tale of Two Cities (1980)  Added December 18th, 2020.

A Tale of Two Cities poster 1980 BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: Set during the French Revolution, this timeless Dickens tale of romance, sacrifice, and tyranny finds a noble hero torn between improving society and self-advancement.

Why You Should Watch: Paul Shelley stars in this Golden Globe-nominated adaptation of Dickens’ novel.

51. Martin Chuzzlewit (1994)  Added December 18th, 2020.

Martin Chuzzlewit poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Charles Dickens’ tale of old Martin Chuzzlewit and his family, who compete for the prize of his riches as he nears death.

Why You Should Watch: This is an excellent Emmy-nominated production with an all-star cast.

52. Dombey and Son (1983)  Added December 19th, 2020.

Dombey and Son 1983

Official BritBox Synopsis: Charles Dickens’ tale of Paul Dombey, a cold and arrogant shipping magnate whose pride costs him his family, fortune, and happiness.

Why You Should Watch: Julian Glover stars in this adaptation of one of Dickens’ lesser-known novels.

53. Great Expectations (1981)  Added December 19th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: In this adaptation of one of Charles Dickens’ greatest works, an orphan with humble beginnings grows to become a gentleman, thanks to an anonymous benefactor.

Why You Should Watch: If you’re a fan of the novel, you’ll want to watch this adaptation because it covers the entirety of the story.

54. Great Expectations (2011)  Added December 19th, 2020.

Great Expectations 2011 - Gillian Anderson
Gillian Anderson (Miss Havisham) – Courtesy of BritBox

Official BritBox Synopsis: Charles Dickens’ tale of obsession, revenge, and redemption, where young orphan Pip’s life changes dramatically when he inherits a fortune from an unknown benefactor.

Why You Should Watch: This is a gorgeous production with an all-star cast. It also won four primetime Emmys.

55. Bleak House (1985)  Added December 20th, 2020.

Bleak House 1985

Official BritBox Synopsis: As the arduous Jarndyce vs Jarndyce case staggers onward, more and more people become embroiled in a furious legal battle that can only lead to a bitter ending.

Why You Should Watch: Diana Rigg stars in this first-rate adaptation.

56. Bleak Old Shop of Stuff  Added December 20th, 2020.

The Bleak Old Shop of Stuff Poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Take a horse-drawn trip into the mad Dickensian world of Jedrington Secret-Past, an upstanding family man and shop owner with a secret past.

Why You Should Watch: If you’re a fan of comedy and parodies, this one’s for you.

57. Little Dorrit (2008)  Added December 21st, 2020.

Little Dorrit 2008 - Matthew Macfadyen
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: This moving series adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel chronicles the wavering fortunes and hardships of a young girl caring for her father in the debtor’s prison where she was born.

Why You Should Watch: This 2008 production is one of the best romantic period dramas ever made. Claire Foy and Matthew Macfadyen star in this brilliant adaptation you won’t want to miss.

58. Hard Times (1994)  Added December 21st, 2020.

Hard Times 1994 poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: In an industrial town where markets overshadow the human spirit, a retired merchant forbids his children to engage in imaginative pursuits.

Why You Should Watch: While a condensed version of the story, it includes accomplished actors such as Richard E. Grant in the cast.

59. Drovers’ Gold (1997)  Added December 22nd, 2020.

BBC's Drovers' Gold

Official BritBox Synopsis: When a drover refuses to pay a reasonable price for a widow’s cattle, her son recruits a ragtag crew to take the herd to market in this tale of adventure and romance.

Why You Should Watch: If you like adventure and western period dramas, you’ll want to give this miniseries a try.

60. Our Mutual Friend (1998) Added December 22nd, 2020.

Our Mutual Friend image
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: Set against the contrasting backgrounds of new money and squalid poverty, two love stories unfold amid bitter tensions over money, class, and passion in this Dickens tale.

Why You Should Watch: Full of romance and good writing from Sandy Welch, Our Mutual Friend is period drama gold and must-see entertainment.

61. The Mystery of Edwin Drood (2012)  Added December 23rd, 2020.

Mystery of Edwin Drood
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: The last story Charles Dickens would ever write before his death. Acclaimed screenwriter Gwyneth Hughes brings to life this unfinished tale of obsessive love and betrayal, where choirmaster and opium addict John Jasper dreams of killing his nephew and stealing his fiancée.

Why You Should Watch: Matthew Rhys stars in this atmospheric period drama.

62. The Pickwick Papers (1985)  Added December 23rd, 2020.

The Pickwick Papers 1985

Official BritBox Synopsis: In Charles Dickens’ comic masterpiece, Mr. Pickwick and his three colleagues set out on a hilarious and revelatory journey through Victorian England.

Why You Should Watch: This adaptation is classic Dickensian and one of his more lighthearted stories.

63. David Copperfield (1986) – Added December 24th, 2020.

David Copperfield 1986 poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: A gentle orphan discovers life and love in an indifferent adult world.

Why You Should Watch: Because of the ten-episode length, it has time to cover Dickens’ entire novel.

64. Oliver Twist (1985)  Added December 24th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: One of Dickens’ best-known tales about an orphan boy who asked for more.

Why You Should Watch: This adaptation follows the book closely.

65. Downton Abbey  Added December 26th, 2020.

Maggie Smith in Downton Abbey - BritBox promo image
Maggie Smith (Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham) –Courtesy of BritBox

Official BritBox Synopsis: The phenomenon that changed the face of British television forever. This Edwardian drama follows the lives and affairs of the elite Crawley family and their servants.

Why You Should Watch: Whether you’re watching the famous series for the first time or re-watching, Downton Abbey is one of the best period drama TV series ever made and worth watching time and time again.

66. Hearts of Gold (2003) Added December 27th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: Two people from very different backgrounds find it impossible to be together. But their love makes them determined – and destined – to try.

Why You Should Watch: I don’t know much about this miniseries, but it sounds like a promising romance story.

67. The Buccaneers (1995)  Added December 27th, 2020.

The Buccaneers;
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: In London for the season, four beautiful Americans charm the impoverished English aristocracy with their vivacity and wealth. But it all turns to ashes.

Why You Should Watch: Based on Edith Wharton’s novel, this series is must-watch entertainment full of drama and romance, as well as a fabulous cast.

68. Little Women (1970)  Added December 28th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: Louisa May Alcott’s timeless coming of age tale about four very different sisters who experience love and loss growing up during the American Civil War.

Why You Should Watch: I have not seen this adaptation, but if you love the story, it’s always worth checking out.

69. The Woman in White (1982) Added December 28th, 2020.

The Woman in White 1982

Official BritBox Synopsis: One of the world’s first whodunits, where a strange woman may hold the key to unlocking a mystery. What is the secret of the wild-eyed woman in white?

Why You Should Watch: This is another adaptation I haven’t seen yet, but having read the book, I’m always interested in seeing various versions. The story is full of romance, mystery, and an all-around memorable tale.

70. Women in Love (2011)  Added December 28th, 2020.

Women in Love poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Rosamund Pike stars in this adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s novel about the lives and loves of two sisters as they struggle with their own desires and passions.

Why You Should Watch: If you’re a fan of D.H. Lawrence novels, then you should check out this adaptation. It has a strong cast, however, do expect explicit content in this one.

71. Lorna Doone (2000)  Added December 29th, 2020.

Lorna Doone poster

Official BritBox Synopsis: Having watched the ruthless Doones clan slay his father as a child, John Ridd swears revenge. As he grows older, he falls for a woman on the side of his sworn enemy.

Why You Should Watch: This story of star-crossed love is captivating to watch!

72. Servants (2003)  Added December 29th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: In front of their masters, the servants of the Sturges Born family are silent and obedient. But out of sight, they lead lives full of secrets, ambition, love, and intrigue.

Why You Should Watch: Felicity Jones stars in this little-known period drama. I have not seen it, but it sounds compelling.

73. Vanity Fair (1987)  Added December 30th, 2020.

Official BritBox Synopsis: William Makepeace Thackeray’s story, set during the Napoleonic wars, where poor orphan Becky Sharp slyly maneuvers her way up the ladder of high society.

Why You Should Watch: This is a fantastic adaptation of the novel.

74. Vanity Fair (1998)  Added December 30th, 2020.

Vanity Fair 1998

Official BritBox Synopsis: Penniless orphan Becky Sharp is an unstoppable schemer and seductive social climber who will stop at nothing to get what she wants.

Why You Should Watch: Starring Natasha Little, this is another good adaptation of the novel.

75. The Duchess of Duke Street (1976)  Added December 31st, 2020.

duchess of duke street
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: This Emmy-nominated series follows a Cockney servant girl as she rises to manage one of Edwardian London’s most prestigious hotels.

Why You Should Watch: Gemma Jones stars in this outstanding series.

76. The Paradise (2012)  Added December 31st, 2020.

The Paradise promotional image
Photo: BBC

Official BritBox Synopsis: A young woman moves to the city and is seduced by the intoxicating charms and luxuries of Britain’s first department store.

Why You Should Watch: This is one of our personal favorite romantic period drama series. It’s fun, addictive, well-written, and unabashedly romantic.

What period dramas on BritBox are you excited to watch? Let me know in the comments!


Featured image credit: Daniela Denby-Ashe (Margaret Hale), Douglas Booth (Pip), Charity Wakefield (Marianne Dashwood), Dan Stevens (Matthew Crawley) and Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary Crawley)–Courtesy of BritBox


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By on December 31st, 2020

About Amber Topping

Amber works as a writer and digital publisher full-time and fell in love with stories and imagination at an early age. She has a Humanities and Film Degree from BYU, co-created The Silver Petticoat Review, contributed as a writer to various magazines, and has an MS in Publishing from Pace University, where she received the Publishing Award of Excellence and wrote her thesis on transmedia, Jane Austen, and the romance genre. Her ultimate dreams are publishing books, writing and producing movies, traveling around the world, and forming a creative village of talented storytellers trying to change the world through art.

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