London has long been the atmospheric backdrop for some of the most enthralling detective series in television and literature. Known for its foggy streets, historic landmarks, and dark alleys, it’s the ideal setting for mystery, intrigue, and crime solving. Here are 11 of the best detective series set in this iconic city that have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide.

1. Sherlock – A modern adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes detective stories with Benedict Cumberbatch playing the enigmatic genius Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson.

2. Luther – Starring Idris Elba as DCI John Luther, this gritty crime drama delves into the complex mind of a passionate detective while he tackles serious crimes in London.

3. Poirot – David Suchet stars as Hercule Poirot, Agatha Christie’s famous Belgian detective, known for his keen eye for detail and his impressive mustache as he solves various mysteries that often involve the British upper crust.

4. Prime Suspect – Helen Mirren plays Jane Tennison, one of the first female Detective Chief Inspectors in London investigating high-profile murder cases while battling workplace sexism.

5. Whitechapel – This series revolves around detectives dealing with copycat killers replicating historical crimes of London’s past, including those committed by Jack the Ripper.

6. Ripper Street – Set shortly after the Jack the Ripper murders, this series focuses on Detective Inspector Edmund Reid who is determined to keep order in the chaotic streets of Whitechapel.

7. Endeavour – A prequel to “Inspector Morse,” it follows young Endeavour Morse embarking on his early career in detective work with the Oxford City Police CID.

8. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes – A faithful adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s work featuring Jeremy Brett in what is often considered the definitive portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.

9. Marcella – Starring Anna Friel as former British police detective Marcella Backland who returns to work following a career break to investigate an old case that has become active again.

10. Grantchester – While not set directly in London but in a nearby village, this series features James Norton as Reverend Sidney Chambers who forms an unlikely partnership with Detective Inspector Geordie Keating on various cases.

11. A Touch of Frost – Starring David Jason as Detective Inspector Jack Frost, an unconventional policeman with a knack for solving crimes despite lacking in social graces or following protocol.

This collection offers gripping stories from master detectives solving complex cases amid London’s unique ambiance—each one delivering its unique take on what it means to seek justice in the Big Smoke. From following legendary figures such as Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot to meeting characters like DCI John Luther and DI Edmund Reid tackling gritty realistic crime scenes, these shows offer suspense and satisfaction for any fan of detective work against a quintessentially British backdrop.