Buzz
If you've binge-watched the newest season of The Crown, which debuted on Netflix in mid-November, you've likely analyzed the stellar performances of newcomers like Emma Corrin as Princess Diana and Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher. You've probably researched the real-life events of season 4, such as the disappearance of Thatcher's son Mark, and rewatched every scene featuring the beloved corgi. So, what's next on your watchlist?
For those craving more historical, regal, or distinctly British content, consider streaming one of these exceptional shows. Available on popular platforms, they deliver the same whispered revelations and intense gazes that make The Crown a gripping and emotionally charged masterpiece.
1. Victoria
Similar to The Crown, Victoria begins with a youthful queen assuming the throne following a family tragedy. Here, the focus is on 18-year-old Alexandrina Victoria, who reigned over Great Britain and Ireland for an impressive 63 years. Though the series has only depicted a fraction of her rule across three seasons, it’s brimming with royal intrigue, political drama, and stunning period costumes. While there’s no confirmed release date for the next season, writer Daisy Goodwin has hinted that the fourth installment will be an absolute spectacle.
Where to watch it: Amazon Prime
2. The Tudors
Henry VIII is notorious for his tumultuous relationships, having married six women—several of whom met tragic fates. This makes his life ideal for a dramatic series, and Showtime’s The Tudors delivered just that, concluding in 2010. The show chronicles each of Henry’s marriages and his political escapades, featuring now-renowned British actors in early roles. Henry Cavill stars throughout all four seasons as Charles Brandon, the king’s brother-in-law, while Natalie Dormer (known as Margaery Tyrell) shines as the ill-fated Anne Boleyn in the first two seasons.
Where to watch it: Netflix
3. Outlander
Combine the historical drama of The Crown with time travel and a generous dose of romance, and you get Outlander. Adapted from Diana Gabaldon’s popular book series, this Starz production follows Claire Randall, a WWII-era nurse who finds herself transported to 18th-century Scotland. Her journey doesn’t stop there—Claire navigates the French royal court, survives a shipwreck near the American colonies, and falls for a Scottish Highlander named Jamie, all while trying to return to her husband Frank (portrayed by Tobias Menzies, who also plays The Crown's Prince Philip) in the modern era.
Where to watch it: Netflix
4. Call The Midwife
Inspired by the memoirs of a midwife in 1950s East End London, this BBC series chronicles the lives of young women training in medicine as they care for families in their community. By spotlighting a working-class area, Call the Midwife offers a glimpse of London far removed from Queen Elizabeth’s palace, delving into the challenges faced by mothers during the post-war baby boom, before the advent of the contraceptive pill.
Where to watch it: Netflix
5. Upstairs Downstairs
The original Upstairs, Downstairs debuted in the 1970s, concluding with the Bellamy family reeling from the 1929 stock market crash. The reboot (notice the missing comma in the title) resumes in 1936, featuring a former housekeeper from the original series now working for a new household. Mirroring its predecessor, it contrasts the lives of the aristocratic “upstairs” residents with their “downstairs” servants, weaving in historical events that impact both. A delightful bonus for The Crown enthusiasts: Claire Foy, who portrayed Queen Elizabeth in the first two seasons, stars as the rebellious Lady Persephone Towyn.
Where to watch it: BritBox
6. Versailles
Curious about the lavish parties in the Hall of Mirrors? Versailles offers a glimpse into the opulent French palace, dramatizing the life of Louis XIV (the “Sun King”) and his court during the 17th century. While not as critically acclaimed as The Crown, this series delivers the same level of melodrama and breathtaking set designs that define grand historical dramas.
Where to watch it: Netflix
7. Poldark
As the British-American war erupts, Ross Poldark departs Cornwall to serve King George III. After eight years of conflict, the British defeat forces him to return home, only to find his father deceased, his estate in shambles, and his beloved engaged to his cousin. This is where Poldark, based on Winston Graham’s novels, begins. Though Ross is fictional, the series weaves in real historical events, from the Revolutionary War’s aftermath to the French Revolution. All five seasons, concluding in 2019, are available on Amazon Prime.
Where to watch it: Amazon Prime
8. The Borgias
Rodrigo, Cesare, and Lucrezia Borgia were among the most powerful nobles in 15th and 16th century Italy. In 1492, Rodrigo ascended to the papacy, gaining control of the Roman Catholic Church as Pope Alexander VI. This elevated the Borgia family to near-absolute power, enabling them to manipulate Italy as they pleased. Showtime’s The Borgias captures their political schemes, betrayals, and alleged incest across three gripping seasons, with Jeremy Irons starring as Rodrigo.
Where to watch it: Netflix
9. Downton Abbey
If you weren’t part of the Downton Abbey phenomenon in 2010, now’s your chance to dive in. The complete series, focusing on the aristocratic Crawley family and their household staff, is streaming on Amazon Prime, while the 2019 film is available on HBO Max or for rent on Prime Video. Set primarily in the 1910s and 1920s, the show’s charm is timeless, especially thanks to Maggie Smith’s sharp-tongued brilliance.
Where to watch it: Amazon Prime
10. Coronation Street
To truly grasp the royals’ tastes, you need to explore their favorite programs—and Coronation Street is famously rumored to be Queen Elizabeth’s top soap opera. (Prince Charles is also an admirer; he even made a guest appearance during the show’s live 2000 special.) Since its debut on ITV in 1960, Coronation Street has chronicled the lives of working-class families in the fictional town of Weatherfield.
Where to watch it: Hulu, Tubi
This story has been updated for 2020.
