The BBC crime drama Sherwood has been hailed by viewers as 'the best of British drama' and is being compared to megahits like Line of Duty and Broadchurch. The police procedural, streaming free on BBC iPlayer, has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and stellar cast.
Inspired by Real-Life Murders
Created by three-time Olivier Award winner James Graham, Sherwood draws inspiration from real-life murders that took place in 2004 in Annesley Woodhouse, a small mining village in Nottinghamshire. The first season aired on BBC One in June 2022, and the show was quickly commissioned for a second series, which debuted in August 2024. A third season, recently completed filming, is expected to air in the latter half of 2026.
Stellar Cast and Critical Acclaim
The series stars Lesley Manville and David Morrissey in lead roles, with a supporting cast including Lorraine Ashbourne, Adeel Akhtar, Claire Rushbrook, Philip Jackson, Robert Glenister, Kevin Doyle, Perry Fitzpatrick, and Bill Jones. The official synopsis states: 'Two shocking and unexpected murders shatter an already fractured community, leading to one of the largest manhunts in British history while threatening to inflame historic divisions sparked during the Miners' Strike three decades before.'
Over its two-season run, Sherwood has received five BAFTA nominations, including Best Drama Series, with Adeel Akhtar winning Best Supporting Actor for his role in the first season. The show boasts an impressive 96% average rating on Rotten Tomatoes across both seasons.
Viewer and Critic Comparisons to Line of Duty and Broadchurch
One critic said: 'Sherwood might just be the most compelling crime drama to come out of the UK since Broadchurch.' Another wrote: 'As a murder mystery, Sherwood offers everything that a quality crime drama should. It's laced with juicy hooks, twists and revelations, and has a vivid sense of place.' A third critic commented: 'A multi-layered drama, with several sub-plots, two grisly killings and one foot firmly in a troubled past, this is chilling, clever and unmissable.'
Viewers have also drawn comparisons on IMDB. One fan wrote: 'Compelling drama this, every now and then a drama comes along and grabs you, it intrigues, tantalises and immerses you, Broadchurch, Line of Duty, and a few others, Sherwood is very close to being on par with them.' Another viewer said: 'Ridiculously first rate. Reminds me of the top-notch gravitas of Broadchurch, same unimpeachably high production values and knockout writing and acting.'
One IMDB user review states: 'Absolute class. BBC drama at its brilliant best. A stellar cast of top-notch actors and a storyline that always keeps you guessing with some real jaw-dropping moments. This is definitely one of the best series of the year. Not to be missed.' Another added: 'How refreshing to see so many top British actors coming together in this superbly written TV drama. I spent the first 2 episodes spotting some of the British greats. This has to be up there with the best of British drama. Gripping.'
Where to Watch
Sherwood is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
