Forget the present; the most captivating stories are often found in the past. If you're craving a sumptuous escape into bygone eras of grandeur, romance, and intrigue, Netflix UK is your personal time machine. We've scoured the library to bring you the definitive list of the finest historical period dramas available to stream right now.
1. The Crown
No list would be complete without this royal titan. Journey through the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, witnessing the glittering ceremonies and the deeply private struggles behind the palace walls. A masterclass in storytelling and performance.
2. Bridgerton
Shonda Rhimes delivers a deliciously modern twist on Regency London's high society. Filled with scandal, lavish costumes, and a iconic soundtrack, this is history reimagined with vibrant colour and palpable passion.
3. Peaky Blinders
Immerse yourself in the gritty, gangster-ridden streets of post-WWI Birmingham. Follow the rise of the formidable Tommy Shelby and his family in this critically acclaimed series brimming with style and tension.
4. The Last Kingdom
This epic saga charts the birth of England through the eyes of Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a warrior torn between two worlds. A must-watch for fans of brutal battles and complex political machinations.
5. Call the Midwife
Travel to London's impoverished East End in the 1950s and 60s. This heartwarming and often heart-wrenching drama follows a group of nurse midwives, offering a powerful glimpse into social history and community.
6. Vikings: Valhalla
A spin-off of the hit series Vikings, this show catapults you into the early 11th century. Witness the end of the Viking Age as legendary Norse heroes clash with enemies and each other.
7. Outlander
A genre-bending epic that combines historical drama with a thrilling time-travel romance. Follow World War II nurse Claire Randall as she's mysteriously transported to 18th-century Scotland.
8. The Empress
Dive into the captivating and rebellious life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. This German-language drama is a visual feast, exploring the intense pressures and passions of royal life.
9. Medici
Uncover the dark secrets and immense power of the Medici family, the bankers who ruled Renaissance Florence. This drama is packed with political betrayal, artistic genius, and familial conflict.
10. Cable Girls
Set in roaring 1920s Madrid, this Spanish series follows four women working at a modern telecommunications company. It's a thrilling tale of friendship, romance, and the fight for independence.
So, whether your taste leans towards royal biopics or gritty historical fiction, there's a world of adventure waiting on Netflix. Which era will you explore first?
