Last week, we covered romantic British films, this week we look at the most romantic British TV dramas (which many people brought up in the discussion last week). British television has long excelled at portraying romance in all its forms, from period dramas to contemporary love stories. Whether through comedy or drama, these series have given us some of television’s most memorable couples and love stories, often combining characteristic British wit with genuine emotional depth. Here are 25 of the most romantic British television shows that have captivated audiences over the years. Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
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Pride and Prejudice (1995)
The BBC adaptation that defined a generation’s view of Mr. Darcy, this six-part series remains the gold standard for period romance on television. Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle’s electric chemistry as Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet created an unforgettable portrayal of Austen’s beloved characters. The famous lake scene with Firth’s Darcy became an iconic moment in British television history. The series’ attention to period detail, faithful adaptation of the source material, and perfect pacing allow the central romance to develop naturally and convincingly.
North & South (2004)
Based on Elizabeth Gaskell’s novel, this BBC series stars Richard Armitage and Daniela Denby-Ashe in a passionate story of love across the social divide in Victorian England. The chemistry between Margaret Hale and John Thornton simmers throughout the four episodes, building to one of television’s most romantic train station scenes. The series beautifully balances industrial social commentary with a sweeping romance that rivals Pride and Prejudice in its intensity.
Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
While not purely a romance, this global phenomenon featured multiple compelling love stories throughout its six seasons. From Mary and Matthew’s pride-and-prejudice-style courtship to Anna and Bates’ devotion through adversity, the series excelled at portraying romance across social classes in the early 20th century. Creator Julian Fellowes wove together upstairs and downstairs romances with equal attention and emotional depth.
Normal People (2020)
This adaptation of Sally Rooney’s novel follows the complex relationship between Connell and Marianne from their school days through university. Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones deliver raw, intimate performances in this exploration of young love, class differences, and personal growth. The series received praise for its realistic portrayal of modern relationships and intimate scenes.
Call the Midwife (2012-present)
While primarily focused on midwifery in London’s East End, this beloved series has given us numerous touching romance storylines. From Chummy and Peter’s sweet courtship to Trixie’s various relationships, the show portrays love in all its forms against the backdrop of social change in the 1950s and 60s. The series particularly excels at showing how romance develops within the constraints of different social and religious expectations.
Poldark (2015-2019)
Aidan Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson star in this sweeping romance set in 18th-century Cornwall. The turbulent relationship between Ross Poldark and Demelza forms the heart of the series, evolving from master and servant to passionate equals. The show’s stunning Cornish landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop to multiple love stories, while the chemistry between the leads made it must-watch television.
Cold Feet (1997-2003, 2016-2020)
This contemporary series follows three couples through the ups and downs of modern relationships. With its perfect blend of comedy and drama, it captured the reality of love, marriage, and friendship in middle-class Britain. The romance between Adam and Rachel particularly touched viewers’ hearts, becoming one of TV’s most genuine portrayals of modern love.
Gavin & Stacey (2007-2010, 2019)
This beloved comedy follows the romance between Essex boy Gavin and Welsh girl Stacey, along with their families and best friends. Created by James Corden and Ruth Jones, the series captures the reality of a long-distance relationship blossoming into marriage, while celebrating the culture clash between English and Welsh families. The show’s genius lies in making an ordinary romance feel extraordinary through genuine warmth and humor. From their first phone call to their wedding and beyond, Mathew Horne and Joanna Page’s charming performances make Gavin and Stacey one of British TV’s most relatable couples. Meanwhile, the “will-they-won’t-they” subplot between Smithy and Nessa provides a different kind of love story altogether, culminating in the famous 2019 Christmas special cliffhanger. The series proves that the most romantic stories can be found in the everyday moments of ordinary lives.
The Crown (2016-present)
While primarily about the British monarchy, this lavish series features several compelling romances, from Elizabeth and Philip’s complex marriage to Margaret’s tragic love affairs. The show excels at portraying how love operates within the constraints of duty and tradition.
Coupling (2000-2004)
Steven Moffat’s clever comedy follows six friends and their romantic entanglements. The central romance between Steve and Susan provides the show’s emotional core, while the series brilliantly depicts the complexities of modern dating and relationships with characteristically British humor.
Emma (2009)
Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller star in this charming adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel. The four-part series allows Emma’s gradual realization of her love for Mr. Knightley to develop naturally, while perfectly capturing Austen’s wit and social observation.
Our Girl (2014-2020)
Following female medics in the British Army, the series features compelling romance storylines amid its military drama. Both Lacey Turner and Michelle Keegan’s leads find love in challenging circumstances, creating genuine chemistry with their various co-stars.
Last Tango in Halifax (2012-2020)
This heartwarming series proves romance isn’t just for the young, following two widowed septuagenarians who rekindle their teenage romance via Facebook. Derek Jacobi and Anne Reid bring warmth and authenticity to their roles, while the show explores love across different generations.
Jane Eyre (2006)
Ruth Wilson and Toby Stephens create sparks in this passionate adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s classic. Their portrayal of Jane and Rochester’s complex relationship captures all the gothic romance of the source material while making it feel thoroughly modern.
Fleabag (2016-2019)
While not primarily a romance, the second season’s love story between Fleabag and the Hot Priest became a cultural phenomenon. Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s writing and Andrew Scott’s performance created one of television’s most memorable forbidden romances.
Indian Summers (2015-2016)
Set in the twilight of British colonial rule in India, this Channel 4 drama weaves together multiple romantic storylines against a backdrop of political tension. The forbidden love between Ralph Whelan and Jaya, and the complex relationship between Alice and Aafrin explore romance across cultural and racial divides in 1930s India.
The Paradise (2012-2013)
This Victorian-era drama set in Britain’s first department store follows the romance between ambitious shopgirl Denise Lovett and store owner John Moray. The series combines business intrigue with a touching love story, showcasing how romance bloomed within the strict social confines of the era.
Doc Martin (2004-2022)
While primarily a comedy-drama about a grumpy village doctor, the slow-burning romance between Martin Clunes’ Doc Martin and Caroline Catz’s Louisa Glasson provides the emotional heart of the series. Their unlikely love story, full of fits and starts, captures how even the most emotionally reserved characters can find love.
The Durrells (2016-2019)
Set in Corfu in the 1930s, this charming series features several romantic storylines, particularly focusing on single mother Louisa Durrell’s romantic endeavors and her children’s various love interests. The sun-drenched Greek setting provides a perfect backdrop for these warm-hearted romantic tales.
Persuasion (2007)
Sally Hawkins stars as Anne Elliot in this beautiful adaptation of Jane Austen’s most mature romance. The story of love given a second chance resonates particularly well in this version, which captures both the regret of past decisions and the hope of renewal.
Victoria (2016-2019)
Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes bring the passionate romance between Queen Victoria and Prince Albert to life in this sumptuous historical drama. Their courtship and marriage form the emotional core of a series that shows how love can thrive even under the weight of royal responsibility.
The Split (2018-2022)
This legal drama about divorce lawyers features complex romantic relationships, particularly focusing on Hannah Stern’s marriage and affair. The series thoughtfully explores modern love, marriage, and infidelity among London’s professional class.
Brief Encounters (2016)
Set in the 1980s, this underrated gem follows four women selling lingerie at Ann Summers parties, each with their own romantic storylines. The series combines female friendship with touching explorations of love and relationships in Thatcher’s Britain.
Sanditon (2019-2023)
Based on Jane Austen’s unfinished novel, this series takes her framework and develops it into a compelling romance between Charlotte Heywood and Sidney Parker (and later Alexander Colbourne). While taking liberties with Austen’s work, it captures her spirit while adding modern sensibilities.
Gentleman Jack (2019-2022)
Based on the real-life diaries of Anne Lister, this groundbreaking series follows her pursuit of love in 1830s Yorkshire. Suranne Jones brings incredible charisma to the role of Lister, and her romance with Ann Walker provides a rare portrayal of same-sex love in period drama.
What makes these series special is their ability to portray romance in uniquely British ways – often combining humor with drama, social commentary with emotional depth, and realistic characters with swooning romance. Whether set in the past or present, these shows have given us some of television’s most memorable couples and love stories, proving that British television excels at capturing the complexities and joys of romantic love.
Many of these series share common themes: the tension between love and social expectations, the importance of timing in relationships, the challenge of maintaining love against external pressures, and the way British reserve often masks deeper passions. They range from light-hearted comedies to intense dramas, but all share a commitment to exploring romantic relationships with depth and authenticity.
