Fans have been raving about a period drama set in the North East of England, now available to stream for free. The series, filmed at the stunning Lambton Castle in County Durham, is ideal viewing for Downton Abbey enthusiasts.
About The Paradise
The Paradise is a British costume drama adapted from Émile Zola's 1883 novel, Au Bonheur des Dames. While Zola's book focused on the founder of Le Bon Marché in Paris, the series relocates the story to the North East of England. It centers on an intoxicating love story set in England's first department store during the 1870s.
The series premiered on BBC One in 2012, followed by a second series in 2013. It follows the lives and loves of those who worked, shopped, and traded in and around the first English department store. The owner, John Moray, is a widower who rose from being a draper's boy to running The Paradise. Into this world comes Denise Lovett from Peebles, Scotland, who takes a job at The Paradise and quickly becomes a rising star.
Cast and Reception
Joanna Vanderham leads the cast as Denise Lovett, alongside Emun Elliott as John Moray. The ensemble also includes Peter Wight, Matthew McNulty, David Hayman, Sarah Lancashire, Sonya Cassidy, Stephen Wight, and Elaine Cassidy.
Audiences have shared praise for the drama. One IMDb user wrote: This was a thoroughly delightful series to watch. Stunning costumes and scenery. Outstanding performances. Flawless masterpiece. Another added: The best ever!! Just as good as Downton Abbey. A third said: Absolutely captivated by the brilliance of Denise and the charm of Mr Murray.
Another viewer commented: The Paradise is just that! An amazing show which captivates you very quickly and has you thinking constantly. One fan shared: My wife and I have enjoyed other period shows such as Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and The Gilded Age, and I think it's better than all of them.
A sixth viewer echoed: One of the most underrated shows. It compels you to binge watch! It's a stand out series. So flawless. Another fan agreed: Better than Mr Selfridge. Someone else said: Impeccably cast, extremely handsome, predictably soapy and a trifle slow moving, it's another first-rate costume drama.
All 16 episodes of The Paradise are now streaming for free on U.
