shows to watch if you like downton abbey
1. Recommended Period Dramas for Fans of Downton Abbey
Why Fans of Downton Abbey Will Love These Period Dramas
If you’re a fan of the captivating world of Downton Abbey, filled with lavish costumes, intricate storylines, and rich historical settings, then these recommended period dramas are sure to capture your attention. These shows transport viewers back in time to different eras, allowing them to immerse themselves in the lives of fascinating characters facing their own trials and triumphs.
Read More: Learn the most effective techniques for cleaning sweaters in 2023 with this comprehensive guide.
1. The Crown
The Crown is a critically acclaimed series that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Just like Downton Abbey, it offers a glimpse into the lives of both the aristocracy and those who serve them. The show beautifully captures the grandeur and challenges that come with being part of the royal family, while also delving into personal relationships and political intrigue.
2. Outlander
If you enjoy the romance and historical backdrop of Downton Abbey, then Outlander is a must-watch series for you. Based on Diana Gabaldon’s beloved novels, this show follows Claire Randall as she travels back in time from 1945 to 18th-century Scotland. With its lush Scottish landscapes and compelling love story, Outlander combines elements of history, fantasy, and romance to create an addictive viewing experience.
3. Poldark
Poldark transports viewers to late 18th-century Cornwall, England, where they follow Ross Poldark as he returns from war to find his life in ruins. This gripping series explores themes of class divide, love triangles, and social change against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. With its compelling characters and sweeping storyline, Poldark offers a similar blend of drama and romance that fans of Downton Abbey will appreciate.
Other Period Dramas Worth Exploring
- Vikings
- Peaky Blinders
- The Tudors
- Mad Men
- Boardwalk Empire
These are just a few examples of the many period dramas available that capture the essence of Downton Abbey. Whether you’re drawn to the opulence of royal courts, the struggles of everyday people, or the complexities of historical events, these shows offer a captivating escape into different time periods and worlds.
2. Capturing the Elegance and Charm: Shows Similar to Downton Abbey
2.1 The Crown
The Crown is a highly acclaimed British television series that captures the elegance and charm reminiscent of Downton Abbey. Set in the mid-20th century, the show follows the life of Queen Elizabeth II from her early reign to the present day. With its lavish production design, intricate costumes, and attention to historical detail, The Crown immerses viewers in a world of royalty and aristocracy.
Similar to Downton Abbey, The Crown explores themes of duty, tradition, and family dynamics. It delves into the personal lives of the royal family members and their interactions with political figures, providing an intimate look at their struggles and triumphs. The captivating performances by the cast, including Claire Foy as Queen Elizabeth II and Matt Smith as Prince Philip, further enhance the show’s appeal.
2.2 Poldark
Poldark is a period drama series set in 18th-century Cornwall that captures both elegance and charm while also exploring social issues of the time. The show follows Ross Poldark as he returns home from war to find his estate in ruins and his former love engaged to another man. As Ross rebuilds his life and tries to navigate through societal expectations, viewers are treated to stunning landscapes, beautiful costumes, and compelling storylines.
Like Downton Abbey, Poldark showcases a mix of upstairs/downstairs dynamics with its portrayal of both wealthy landowners and working-class characters. The series delves into themes such as class divide, romance, and political unrest during this tumultuous period in history. Aidan Turner’s charismatic performance as Ross Poldark adds depth to the character-driven narrative.
3. TV Series with Drama, Romance, and Historical Context like Downton Abbey
3.1 Outlander
Outlander is a captivating television series that combines drama, romance, and historical context in a similar vein to Downton Abbey. The show follows Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who mysteriously travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland. As she navigates this unfamiliar world, Claire becomes entangled in the Jacobite risings and finds herself torn between two men from different eras.
With its lush Scottish landscapes, intricate costumes, and compelling storytelling, Outlander transports viewers to a bygone era filled with political intrigue and passionate relationships. The series explores themes of love, loyalty, and the clash of cultures while also providing an immersive historical backdrop.
3.2 Call the Midwife
Call the Midwife is a heartwarming British drama series that combines elements of drama, romance, and historical context similar to Downton Abbey. Set in the 1950s and 1960s East End of London, the show follows a group of midwives as they navigate their personal lives while delivering babies in a poverty-stricken neighborhood.
Like Downton Abbey, Call the Midwife delves into social issues of its time period while also highlighting strong female characters. The series tackles topics such as women’s healthcare rights, poverty, and societal norms through its engaging storylines. With its nostalgic setting and memorable ensemble cast, Call the Midwife offers a heartfelt portrayal of community and resilience.
4. Exploring Upstairs and Downstairs Lives: Shows Like Downton Abbey
4.1 Belgravia
Belgravia is a period drama series created by the same team behind Downton Abbey, making it a perfect choice for fans of the show. Set in 19th-century London, the series explores the lives of both the upper-class residents of Belgravia and their servants. As secrets and scandals unfold, viewers are taken on a journey that intertwines the fates of these interconnected characters.
With its sumptuous production design and captivating performances, Belgravia captures the essence of Downton Abbey’s exploration of class divide and societal expectations. The series showcases the opulence and glamour of the aristocracy while also shedding light on the struggles faced by those in service. Belgravia offers a compelling blend of intrigue, romance, and historical context.
4.2 Upstairs Downstairs
Upstairs Downstairs is a classic British television series that serves as an inspiration for shows like Downton Abbey. Set in early 20th-century London, the show delves into the lives of both the wealthy Bellamy family who reside upstairs and their loyal servants who work downstairs.
Similar to Downton Abbey, Upstairs Downstairs provides an intimate look at class dynamics and social hierarchy during this time period. The series explores themes such as love, betrayal, and societal changes through its well-developed characters and engaging storylines. With its rich historical backdrop and memorable ensemble cast, Upstairs Downstairs remains a must-watch for fans of shows set in grand houses.
5. British Television Shows with a Setting Similar to Downton Abbey
5.1 Gosford Park
Gosford Park is a film directed by Robert Altman that shares similarities with Downton Abbey in terms of setting and storytelling style. Set in 1932 England, the movie takes place during a weekend shooting party at a country estate. As the guests and their servants interact, secrets and tensions rise to the surface, leading to a murder mystery.
Like Downton Abbey, Gosford Park offers a glimpse into the lives of both the aristocracy and their servants. The film explores themes of class divide, societal expectations, and personal relationships in a captivating manner. With its stellar ensemble cast and intricate plot, Gosford Park provides an immersive experience for fans of period dramas.
5.2 Parade’s End
Parade’s End is a British miniseries based on the novels by Ford Madox Ford that shares similarities with Downton Abbey in terms of its setting and exploration of social dynamics. Set during World War I and its aftermath, the series follows Christopher Tietjens, an idealistic aristocrat struggling to navigate his crumbling marriage and changing society.
Similar to Downton Abbey, Parade’s End delves into themes such as love, loyalty, and duty amidst a backdrop of historical events. The series offers a nuanced portrayal of class divisions and societal changes during this turbulent period in history. With its compelling performances by Benedict Cumberbatch and Rebecca Hall, Parade’s End provides a thought-provoking viewing experience.
6. Unraveling Class Dynamics and Social Hierarchy: Shows Like Downton Abbey
6.1 The Forsyte Saga
The Forsyte Saga is a British drama series that unravels class dynamics and social hierarchy in a similar vein to Downton Abbey. Based on John Galsworthy’s novels, the show spans several generations of the wealthy Forsyte family as they navigate love affairs, financial success, and changing societal norms from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.
Like Downton Abbey, The Forsyte Saga explores the tensions between tradition and progress, as well as the conflicts arising from societal expectations. The series delves into themes such as love, marriage, and the pursuit of wealth while providing a rich historical backdrop. With its intricate storytelling and compelling performances, The Forsyte Saga offers a captivating portrayal of class dynamics.
6.2 Mr. Selfridge
Mr. Selfridge is a period drama series inspired by the life of American retail magnate Harry Gordon Selfridge and his famous London department store. The show delves into the world of high society and retail during the early 20th century, exploring class dynamics and social hierarchy in a similar manner to Downton Abbey.
Similar to Downton Abbey, Mr. Selfridge showcases both the lives of the wealthy elite and those working in service. The series examines themes such as ambition, consumerism, and changing societal norms through its portrayal of characters from different backgrounds. With its lavish costumes and engaging storylines, Mr. Selfridge provides an intriguing glimpse into the world of luxury retail.
7. Strong Female Leads in TV Shows, akin to Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey
7.1 Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries
Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries is an Australian television series that features a strong female lead similar to Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey. Set in 1920s Melbourne, the show follows Phryne Fisher, a glamorous detective with a sharp wit and impeccable fashion sense.
Like Lady Mary Crawley, Phryne Fisher defies societal expectations for women of her time by pursuing her own interests and solving crimes alongside Detective Inspector Jack Robinson. The series combines mystery-solving with elements of romance, humor, and feminist themes. With its vibrant 1920s setting and Essie Davis’ charismatic performance as Phryne Fisher, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries offers a delightful watch for fans of strong female leads.
7.2 The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is an American comedy-drama series that showcases a strong female lead in a similar vein to Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey. Set in the late 1950s and early 1960s, the show follows Miriam “Midge” Maisel as she discovers her talent for stand-up comedy after her husband leaves her.
Like Lady Mary Crawley, Midge Maisel defies societal expectations and takes control of her own destiny. The series explores themes of gender roles, ambition, and self-discovery while providing a nostalgic backdrop of mid-century New York City. Rachel Brosnahan’s Emmy-winning performance as Midge Maisel adds depth and charm to the character-driven narrative.
8. Aristocratic Families Across Different Time Periods: TV Dramas like Downton Abbey
8.1 Versailles
Versailles is a French-Canadian historical drama series that explores the lives of aristocratic families across different time periods, making it akin to Downton Abbey in its portrayal of grandeur and family dynamics. Set during the reign of Louis XIV in 17th-century France, the show follows the construction of the Palace of Versailles and delves into court intrigue, political maneuvering, and personal relationships.
Similar to Downton Abbey, Versailles showcases both the opulence of royalty and the struggles faced by those serving them. The series examines themes such as power, loyalty, and love amidst a backdrop of historical events. With its lavish production design and compelling performances, Versailles offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of aristocratic families.
8.2 The Borgias
The Borgias is a historical drama series that focuses on the infamous Borgia family during the Renaissance period, making it comparable to Downton Abbey in terms of exploring aristocratic families across different time periods. Set in 15th-century Italy, the show follows Rodrigo Borgia as he becomes Pope Alexander VI and his family’s rise to power.
Like Downton Abbey, The Borgias delves into themes of ambition, betrayal, and family dynamics while providing a rich historical backdrop. The series showcases both the grandeur of the papal court and the complex relationships within the Borgia family. With its intricate storytelling and strong performances by Jeremy Irons and Holliday Grainger, The Borgias offers a compelling portrayal of an aristocratic dynasty.
9. Historical Events and Compelling Character-Driven Storylines: Shows like Downton Abbey
9.1 Boardwalk Empire
Boardwalk Empire is an American period crime drama series that shares similarities with Downton Abbey in terms of its exploration of historical events and character-driven storylines. Set during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City, the show follows Enoch “Nucky” Thompson as he rises to power in the world of organized crime.
Similar to Downton Abbey, Boardwalk Empire weaves together fictional characters with real-life figures from history to create a compelling narrative. The series delves into themes such as corruption, ambition, and societal changes while providing an immersive backdrop of 1920s America. With its stellar ensemble cast and intricate plotlines, Boardwalk Empire offers a gripping viewing experience.
9.2 Mad Men
Mad Men is an American period drama series that combines historical events with compelling character-driven storylines similar to Downton Abbey. Set in the 1960s advertising world of New York City, the show follows Don Draper and his colleagues as they navigate personal and professional challenges during a time of significant societal change.
Like Downton Abbey, Mad Men explores themes such as gender roles, social norms, and the pursuit of success while providing a nostalgic backdrop of mid-century America. The series offers a nuanced portrayal of complex characters and their interactions with historical events. With its stylish production design and critically acclaimed performances, Mad Men remains a must-watch for fans of character-driven dramas.
10. Romance, Intrigue, and Family Drama Combined: Shows for Fans of Downton Abbey
10.1 The Paradise
The Paradise is a British television series that combines romance, intrigue, and family drama in a similar vein to Downton Abbey. Set in the late 19th century, the show follows Denise Lovett as she starts working at The Paradise, the first department store in Northern England.
Similar to Downton Abbey, The Paradise explores themes such as ambition, love affairs, and class divide amidst a backdrop of societal changes. The series showcases both the bustling world of retail and the personal lives of its characters. With its captivating storytelling and beautiful period costumes, The Paradise offers an engaging
In conclusion, if you enjoyed the captivating drama and period setting of Downton Abbey, these recommended shows will surely delight you with their similar themes, compelling storylines, and rich character development.
