Fans of heartwarming television have been heaping praise on a beloved BBC series, declaring it some of the best programming to grace screens in recent memory. Monarch of the Glen, the Scottish-set comedy-drama that captivated audiences throughout the 2000s, continues to earn adoration for its exceptional acting, charming narrative, and breathtaking scenery.
A Cosy Comedy-Drama That Captured Hearts
Monarch of the Glen first debuted at the dawn of the new millennium, quickly establishing itself as a staple of quality BBC entertainment. The series follows the journey of young restaurateur Archie MacDonald, portrayed by Alastair Mackenzie, who finds himself unexpectedly inheriting his family's Highland titles and property. This inheritance compels him to abandon his hectic London restaurant career and return to Scotland as the Laird of Glenbogle.
Archie's story revolves around his ambitious attempt to revitalise the crumbling estate he now oversees, grappling with substantial debts and managing Glenbogle's temperamental workforce. Throughout the series, viewers are treated to his evolving relationship with partner Justine, played by Anna Wilson-Jones, who relocates to Scotland to support him. The central question driving the narrative is whether Archie can transform the estate into a profitable venture despite the numerous challenges that stand in his way.
Glowing Reviews and Fan Adoration
The series has garnered particularly enthusiastic reviews on platforms like IMDb, where fans have been effusive in their praise. One viewer awarded the programme a perfect 10/10 in a review titled "Excellent series, quirky, charming," writing: "The writing is very consistently good, the characters appealing (their quirks and foibles make them even more so), and the scenery of the Scottish highlands is just lovely."
Another highly-rated review declared: "Amazing, makes you fall in love with Scotland and its people." The reviewer elaborated on the show's core values, stating: "I love the values expressed through the show: honesty, faithfulness, character, faith, friendship, hard work, dependability, and above all forgiveness and reconciliation. I love how the themes are developed and I love the beautiful Scottish scenery."
A third top-rated review hailed Monarch of the Glen as a "great series" and concluded: "Overall I'd give it 10/10 though for the drama/acting and of course Scottish scenery." Perhaps most notably, one devoted fan proclaimed: "The series, 'Monarch of the Glen' is the best that telly has had to offer in a very long while." They continued: "The scenery is just as much the star of the show yet it is not used as an excuse for slack plot standards. Indeed it is part and parcel of the plot."
Literary Origins and Production Details
The programme was loosely based on Sir Compton Mackenzie's Highland Novels, though it took a more modern approach than the books, which were set during the 1930s and 1940s. Nevertheless, the series takes its name from the opening novel in Mackenzie's series, The Monarch of the Glen, which itself references the renowned painting of the same title by Sir Edwin Henry Landseer.
Monarch of the Glen spanned seven successful series and was filmed across numerous stunning Scottish locations, including the Cairngorms, Badenoch, and Strathspey. Ardverikie House served as the primary setting for the castle featured in the programme, with additional filming occurring around the south-east shore of Loch Laggan where the property is situated.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Alongside leads Alastair Mackenzie and Anna Wilson-Jones, Monarch of the Glen boasted an impressive ensemble cast featuring some of Britain's most beloved actors. The series included performances from The Good Life star Richard Briers, Emmy Award-winner Susan Hampshire, Human Traffic's Lorraine Pilkington, Taggart's Alexander Morton, Holby City's Dawn Steele, fellow Holby City veteran Hamish Clark, and Downton Abbey creator-turned-performer Julian Fellowes.
Notably, the series represents Fellowes' most substantial acting role to date, with the writer and performer portraying Lord Kilwillie across 24 episodes. Fellowes had previously appeared in productions such as Aristocrats, Sharpe, Our Friends in the North, and Kavanagh QC before taking on this memorable role.
For those eager to revisit this cherished series or discover it for the first time, Monarch of the Glen is currently available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, offering new generations the opportunity to experience the warmth and charm that made it such a beloved fixture of British television.
