Top 10 Period Drama TV Shows of All Time, Ranked

Although period drama media has long been favored in literature and movies, television has successfully captured the genre’s allure as well. The charm of period drama TV shows is easy to comprehend. These shows often highlight timeless themes through rich storytelling, featuring complex, three-dimensional characters that audiences worldwide can relate to. Additionally, their visual richness and immersive quality contribute significantly to their appeal.

While there are numerous exceptional examples of the genre on television, some series stand out more than others, earning accolades as the finest period dramas. Whether set in the 18th-century Scottish Highlands or 19th-century Birmingham, these shows captivate audiences with their storylines. Here’s a look at some of the best period drama TV shows, judged by their greatness.

This British historical drama, created by Debbie Horsfield and based on the novels by Winston Graham, centers around British Army officer Ross Poldark, played by Aidan Turner. Upon returning to Cornwall, Poldark finds his world altered dramatically: his father has died, and his childhood sweetheart, played by Heida Reed, is engaged to his cousin, played by Kyle Soller.

With beautiful cinematography and strong performances, Poldark is essential viewing for period drama aficionados. Its thought-provoking narratives intricately depict the contrast between the wealthy and the poor. Its high production values solidify its standing as one of the best and most influential series in the genre.

Also based on a novel, this time a series by Diana Gabaldon, Outlander is a fan-favorite period piece that blends romance, fantasy, and period drama to great effect. The plot follows Caitríona Balfe’s Claire, a World War II nurse transported back to 1743, where she meets charming Highland warrior Jamie, played by Sam Heughan. Together, they navigate the period’s challenges.

Outlander is praised for its genre-blending elements, characteristic narrative structure, faithfulness to its source material, and the chemistry between its leads. These factors make it a standout in the period drama category, deserving of the attention of new viewers.

Adapted from Elizabeth Gaskell’s 1855 novel, North and South is one of the best shows to grace BBC. It tells the story of a young woman, played by Daniela Denby-Ashe, who moves with her family to the industrial town of Milton and develops a relationship with a successful mill owner, played by Richard Armitage.

North and South tackles universal themes of class conflict and prejudice, examining the consequences of the Industrial Revolution and sacrifices made for loved ones. With excellent character development and a slow-burn central romance, it’s a must-watch classic for period drama fans.

Starring Timothy Olyphant, Deadwood is a Western set in 1870s Deadwood, South Dakota. The show portrays former lawman Seth Bullock witnessing the town’s evolution from a lawless camp to a structured community despite rampant violence, crime, and corruption.

David Milch’s historical epic boasts historical authenticity, top-notch character writing, and a gritty depiction of the American frontier. Tackling themes like law versus crime, morality versus corruption, and community versus isolation, Deadwood stands out not only as a period piece but also as one of the best Western TV shows.

This Terrence Winter adaptation takes viewers back to the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. It stars Steve Buscemi’s Enoch Thompson, a key figure navigating both political and gangster roles to control the city’s bootlegging operations while managing his personal life.

Boardwalk Empire and Peaky Blinders fans will find parallels, including anti-hero leads, themes of power and corruption, and richly detailed historical settings. The absorbing plotlines and three-dimensional characters make it essential viewing for fans of the genre.

Steven Knight’s Netflix hit, starring Cillian Murphy, focuses on the Peaky Blinders gang notorious for sewing razor blades into their caps. The plot depicts their rise to criminal prominence in Birmingham.

Peaky Blinders offers brilliant character dynamics, gripping storylines, and impeccably crafted settings. Despite its series conclusion, fans can anticipate a forthcoming movie continuation.

Matthew Weiner’s Mad Men is perfect for advertising aficionados. Set in the 1960s, it follows Jon Hamm’s Don Draper as he navigates his professional and personal lives at a Madison Avenue advertising agency.