17 Excellent British Period Dramas You Can Binge Right Now
By Lacy Baugher
Daniela Denby-Ashe and Richard Armitage from North & South (Photo: BBC 2004)
North and South
Another classic of the period drama genre, North and South is must-see television for anyone who likes some class conflict to go along with their romance. Adapted from Elizabeth Gaskell’s 19th century novel, the series originally aired in 2004 and is generally acknowledged as one of the best costume dramas ever made.
It follows the story of Margaret Hale, a young woman from southern England who must move to the North after her father decides to leave the clergy. The family struggles to adapt to their new town and the realities of life in the Industrial Revolution. The situation intensifies when idealistic Margaret meets cotton mill owner John Thornton. The two are attracted to each other, but clash repeatedly over issues such as his treatment of workers and her general disdain for his haughty demeanor and background.
(Spoiler: These two crazy kids work it all out in the end, but it’s a slow-burn, full of Pride and Prejudice style misunderstandings.)
The series also deals with broader themes of gender, social justice and individual responsibility, so there’s plenty going on besides the will they/won’t they/seriously when will they subplot. Daniela Denby Ashe and a very young (and almost painfully handsome) Richard Armitage star as the couple that’s soon to become your next big OTP.
Number of Seasons: 1
Where to Watch: Netflix