Downton Abbey Fans: 7 Shows You'll Love if You Want More of That Period Drama Magic!
Alright, guys, let's dive into the world of opulent mansions, intricate costumes, and scandalous affairs – Downton Abbey style! If you're craving more of that period drama magic, you're in luck. We've rounded up seven fantastic shows that are eerily similar to Downton Abbey, guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. So, grab your tea, get comfortable, and let's explore these brilliant series! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and downton abbey similar.
Gosford Park (2001)
Kicking off our list is a film that served as a major inspiration for Downton Abbey – Julian Fellowes' own Gosford Park. This British comedy-drama is set in the early 20th century and follows the lives of both the aristocratic family and their servants during a shooting party weekend. With its sharp wit, stunning costumes, and an ensemble cast that includes Maggie Smith and Helen Mirren, Gosford Park is a must-watch for Downton fans.
Why you'll love it: - The upstairs/downstairs dynamics - The witty dialogue and dark humor - The stunning period details and costumes
Upstairs, Downstairs (1971-1975 & 2010-2012)
The original upstairs/downstairs drama, Upstairs, Downstairs, predates Downton Abbey by nearly four decades. This iconic British series focuses on the lives of the aristocratic Bellamy family and their servants in the early 20th century. With its gripping storylines, memorable characters, and lavish period sets, Upstairs, Downstairs is a captivating watch for Downton fans.
Why you'll love it: - The compelling storylines that span decades - The intricate relationships between the upstairs and downstairs residents - The rich historical context, from World War I to the Roaring Twenties
Cranford (2007-2009)
Based on the novels by Elizabeth Gaskell, Cranford is a charming period drama set in the 19th century. The story revolves around the eccentric residents of the small, picturesque town of Cranford, focusing on their daily lives, love affairs, and social hierarchies. With its delightful characters, witty dialogue, and beautiful costumes, Cranford is an enchanting watch for fans of Downton Abbey.
Why you'll love it: - The quirky and memorable characters - The witty and engaging dialogue - The exploration of social dynamics in a small town
The Paradise (2012-2013)
The Paradise is a captivating period drama set in the 1870s, focusing on the lives of employees and customers at the first-ever department store in England. With its intricate plotlines, memorable characters, and stunning costumes, The Paradise offers a unique take on the period drama genre that Downton fans are sure to enjoy.
Why you'll love it: - The fascinating exploration of the birth of consumer culture - The engaging love story between the store's owner and a young shop girl - The stunning costumes and set designs
The Durrells (2016-2019)
Based on Gerald Durrell's autobiographical novels, The Durrells is a charming and witty period drama set in the 1930s on the Greek island of Corfu. The story follows the eccentric Durrell family as they navigate their new life abroad, filled with love, laughter, and plenty of mischief. With its beautiful setting, delightful characters, and sharp wit, The Durrells is a must-watch for Downton fans looking for something a little different.
Why you'll love it: - The stunning Greek island setting - The lovable and eccentric Durrell family - The witty and engaging dialogue
Poldark (2015-2019)
Set in late 18th-century Cornwall, Poldark is a passionate and dramatic period drama filled with romance, intrigue, and stunning coastal landscapes. The story follows Captain Ross Poldark as he returns home after the American Revolutionary War to find his world in ruins. With its captivating storylines, memorable characters, and gorgeous costumes, Poldark is a fantastic choice for Downton fans.
Why you'll love it: - The sweeping romantic storylines - The stunning coastal landscapes of Cornwall - The intricate plotlines filled with drama and intrigue
Victoria (2016-2019)
Victoria is a lavish and gripping period drama that chronicles the early reign of Queen Victoria, from her ascension to the throne at the age of 18 to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert. With its stunning costumes, impressive set designs, and engaging storylines, Victoria offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of history's most iconic monarchs.
Why you'll love it: - The fascinating exploration of Queen Victoria's early reign - The lavish costumes and impressive set designs - The engaging love story between Victoria and Prince Albert
So there you have it, guys – seven fantastic period dramas that are guaranteed to satisfy your Downton Abbey cravings! Whether you're in the mood for upstairs/downstairs dynamics, captivating romance, or stunning costumes, these series have got you covered. Happy binge-watching!