British television boasts a rich history of groundbreaking storytelling, captivating characters, and enduring cultural impact. From gritty dramas to witty comedies, the UK has consistently produced some of the world's finest television. Creating a definitive "Top 100" list is inherently subjective, as taste is personal and the criteria for "best" are multifaceted. However, this list attempts to balance critical acclaim, cultural influence, and lasting legacy to present a compelling selection of British television's finest offerings. This isn't a strict ranking, but rather a curated collection categorized for easier browsing.
Note: This list focuses primarily on series with significant critical success and cultural impact. Some highly popular shows might be omitted due to space constraints or less widespread critical acclaim. The order within categories is not a precise ranking.
Classic British Television (Pre-2000s)
This section highlights shows that shaped British television and continue to be celebrated today. Many are available on streaming services, offering viewers a glimpse into television's golden age.
- The Avengers (1961-1969): A spy-fi action-adventure series featuring stylish agents and inventive plots.
- Doctor Who (1963-1989, 2005-Present): A science fiction institution, spanning decades and numerous Doctors.
- Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969-1974): A surreal and absurdist comedy that continues to influence comedy today.
- Are You Being Served? (1972-1985): A sitcom centered around the staff of a department store, known for its witty dialogue and memorable characters.
- Fawlty Towers (1975-1979): A masterpiece of sitcom writing, featuring John Cleese's iconic portrayal of Basil Fawlty.
- Upstairs, Downstairs (1971-1975): A period drama exploring the lives of both the upstairs and downstairs staff of a wealthy London household.
- I, Claudius (1976): A historical drama portraying the reigns of various Roman emperors.
- Brideshead Revisited (1981): A lavish adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's novel, showcasing beautiful cinematography and compelling characters.
- Blackadder (1983-1989): A historical sitcom with Rowan Atkinson's brilliant portrayal of the titular Blackadder.
- Absolutely Fabulous (1992-2012): A comedy following the lives of two fashion-obsessed women.
Modern British Television (2000s-Present)
This section features shows that represent the evolution of British television in the modern era, showcasing diverse genres and storytelling styles.
- Sherlock (2010-2017): A modern update of the classic Sherlock Holmes stories.
- Peaky Blinders (2013-2022): A critically acclaimed crime drama set in post-WWI Birmingham.
- Line of Duty (2012-2021): A gripping police procedural focusing on the investigation of police corruption.
- Downton Abbey (2010-2015): A period drama depicting the lives of an aristocratic family and their servants in the early 20th century.
- The Crown (2016-Present): A lavish historical drama portraying the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Broadchurch (2013-2017): A crime drama focusing on a murder investigation in a small coastal town.
- Luther (2010-2019): A psychological crime thriller starring Idris Elba as a brilliant but troubled detective.
- Happy Valley (2014-Present): A crime drama focusing on a police sergeant navigating a complex case in West Yorkshire.
- Bodyguard (2018): A tense political thriller with twists and turns.
- It's a Sin (2021): A moving drama depicting the lives of a group of gay friends in London during the AIDS crisis.
Comedy Classics & Modern Hits
- The Office (UK) (2001-2003): The original version of the iconic sitcom.
- Gavin & Stacey (2007-2019): A heartwarming sitcom about two families from different backgrounds.
- The IT Crowd (2006-2013): A sitcom centered around three IT workers in a large company.
- Fleabag (2016-2019): A dark comedy about a woman struggling with grief and relationships.
- After Life (2019-Present): A comedy-drama about a man coping with the death of his wife.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some of the best British crime dramas? Line of Duty, Peaky Blinders, Broadchurch, and Luther are all highly regarded for their complex plots, compelling characters, and gripping narratives. Happy Valley also receives consistent praise.
Are there any good British historical dramas? Yes, Downton Abbey, The Crown, and Brideshead Revisited are excellent examples. I, Claudius is a more classic option.
What are some popular British comedies? Fawlty Towers, Absolutely Fabulous, The Office (UK), Gavin & Stacey, The IT Crowd, Fleabag, and After Life are consistently cited as favourites.
Where can I watch these shows? The availability of these shows varies depending on your region and streaming services. Many are available on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BritBox, and BBC iPlayer.
This list provides a starting point for exploring the vast landscape of British television. Many other exceptional shows deserve recognition, and this selection reflects a mix of critical acclaim, cultural influence, and personal preference. Enjoy your viewing!
