The 10 Best TV Shows to Watch on Britbox
Britbox has become a treasure trove for fans of British television, offering a wide array of UK classics and contemporary hits. From gripping crime dramas to heartwarming comedies, there’s something for every Anglophile’s taste. If you’re struggling to navigate its extensive catalogue, fret not — here are the 10 best TV shows available on Britbox that you shouldn’t miss.
1. “Broadchurch” – This intense crime drama takes you to a small British coastal town, which is rocked by the mysterious death of a young boy. “Broadchurch” is renowned for its emotionally powerful storytelling and outstanding performances, particularly from leads Olivia Colman and David Tennant.
2. “Doctor Who” – An absolute staple of British science fiction, “Doctor Who” follows the adventures of the Doctor, a time-traveling, regenerating alien who travels through space and time to combat evil forces. It’s a cultural phenomenon that has delighted audiences for decades.
3. “Vera” – Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves, this crime drama features the sharp and shrewd Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope as she solves brutal crimes in Northeast England. Brenda Blethyn’s brilliant portrayal of the titular character has received widespread acclaim.
4. “Fawlty Towers” – Perhaps one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms, “Fawlty Towers” stars John Cleese as Basil Fawlty, the rude and eccentric owner of a chaotic hotel. Despite lasting only two seasons, its legacy endures as one of comedy’s high-water marks.
5. “Shetland” – Another gem based on the work of Ann Cleeves, this crime drama series set in the Scottish Shetland Islands stars Douglas Henshall as Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez who investigates complex crimes within his tight-knit island community.
6. “Inspector Morse” – A classic British mystery series that has sparked spin-offs and sequels due to its popularity, follow the cerebral and solitary Inspector Morse (played by John Thaw) as he solves difficult cases in Oxford with his trusted sidekick Sergeant Lewis.
7. “Cracker” – This psychologically complex series stars Robbie Coltrane as Dr. Edward “Fitz” Fitzgerald, a flawed but brilliant psychologist working with the Greater Manchester Police to solve dark and troubling cases.
8. “Midsomer Murders” – Set against the idyllic English countryside which contrasts with its lurid murder cases, this series follows Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby through Midsomer County solving bizarre and intricate puzzles with murder at their heart.
9. “‘Allo ‘Allo!” – This farcical sitcom set during WWII in German-occupied France is replete with slapstick humor, running gags, and an unforgettable cast portraying the Resistance trying comically to outwit their occupiers.
10. “Line of Duty” – A more recent addition to Britain’s pantheon of outstanding crime dramas, “Line of Duty” focuses on anti-corruption unit AC-12 as they uncover deep-seated corruption within their own police force.
Each show on this list promises hours of gripping entertainment featuring the very best that British television has to offer. So grab a cuppa and a comfy spot on your couch; it’s time to start binging on Britbox!