9 Must-Watch Period Dramas That Are Worth Binge Watching This Autumn

The Best Period Dramas to Watch or Stream Now

There’s something eternally comforting and delightfully indulgent about immersing yourself in a well-crafted TV period drama. Whether it’s the sweeping romance, the razor-sharp dialogue, or the slow burn of a scandal unravelling across candlelit drawing rooms, period dramas offer a unique escape.

And with streaming platforms investing heavily in high-budget historical series, there’s never been a better time to indulge. Here’s a curated guide to the best period drama series to watch or stream right now from beloved classics to glossy newcomers.

1. The Gilded Age (NOW TV)

Set in 1880s New York during a time of immense economic change, The Gilded Age is created by Julian Fellowes (of Downton Abbey fame). With opulent fashion, old money vs. new money power plays, and a glittering cast, it’s the American answer to aristocratic British dramas—and just as addictive.

Watch it if you love: Lavish costumes, grand mansions, and social scheming.

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2. Bridgerton (Netflix)

A Regency-era romp with a modern twist, Bridgerton is a global phenomenon for good reason. Expect steamy romances, scandalous letters, and sumptuous fashion, all narrated by the mysterious Lady Whistledown.

Watch it if you love: Gossip Girl in empire waist dresses.

3. The Crown (Netflix)

A modern classic of the genre, The Crown chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II with breathtaking performances and impeccable detail. Whether you’re a royalist or not, the storytelling is compelling and cinematic.

Watch it if you love: Real-life drama, iconic fashion, and British history.

4. Downton Abbey (Amazon Prime )

The blueprint for modern period dramas. With its sprawling estate, memorable characters, and historical twists (hello, Titanic and WWI), Downton Abbey remains endlessly rewatchable.

Watch it if you love: Upstairs/downstairs drama and Maggie Smith’s one-liners.

6. The Buccaneers (Apple TV+)

This fresh new drama follows a group of young American heiresses trying to find titled husbands in 1870s London. The Buccaneers is a mix of Bridgerton and a rebellious, Gen Z edge.

Watch it if you love: Social rebels, strong female friendships, and a killer soundtrack.

6. Victoria (ITVX )

Before The Crown, Victoria brought us the youthful passion and political weight of Queen Victoria’s early reign, with Jenna Coleman perfectly cast as the headstrong monarch.

Watch it if you love: Royal court politics, romance, and historical depth.

7. North & South (Amazon Prime)

A lesser-known but deeply beloved classic, North & South is an adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel offers brooding industrial settings, intense romance, and one of the most sigh-worthy endings in period drama history.

Watch it if you love: Mr Darcy energy, but make it northern.

8. Call the Midwife (BBC iPlayer )

Set in post-war East London, Call the Midwife is an emotional and uplifting series follows midwives working in the 1950s-60s. It’s heartfelt, socially aware, and wonderfully nostalgic.

Watch it if you love: Real stories, community spirit, and tear-jerking moments.

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9. Sanditon (ITVX )

Based on Jane Austen’s unfinished novel, Sanditon combines classic Austen charm with a bold, sun-drenched seaside setting. It’s more daring than her traditional tales, but still has that slow-burn magic.

Watch it if you love: Jane Austen, with a twist.

The Must-Watch Period Dramas

Whether you’re into Regency romance, Victorian scandal, or 1980s high society, there Period Dramas are ready to transport you. So pour yourself a glass of wine (or a cup of tea), grab your coziest blanket, and step back in time.

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