Solving puzzles, catching criminals, and keeping the public safe. Crime dramas are a much-loved genre of entertainment, inviting people to put on their detective hats and follow along with the story of a mystery. British dramas, in particular, never fail to thrill and captivate audiences, and they often feature better scripting and production values than American crime dramas. For any mystery-solving enthusiast looking for their next great British crime drama to watch, we have compiled a list of 5 of the best shows to consider.
Sherlock
When thinking of a great British crime drama, there is no doubt that Sherlock should top the list. Made by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, creators of Doctor Who, and based on the famous novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, it stars brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, together solving cases and mysteries with the help of modern technology. Sherlock’s wit and fantastic deductive skills continue to amaze viewers and have won over countless fans. With Benedict Cumberbatch in the role of Sherlock and Martin Freeman as his partner John Watson, the series is witty and engaging, providing an air of mystery and surprise.
Midsomer Murders
Another great British crime drama on the list is Midsomer Murders. This show is set in the fictional small village of Midsomer County and follows the life of Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby in his investigations into murder cases. With over 200 episodes, this series is the second-longest running crime drama on the list and has seen many different casts over the years. Fans of the show often praise the scenic landscapes of Midsomer County and the unique characters that inhabit it. With a charming British countryside setting and a unique murder mystery on every episode, Midsomer Murders is a must-watch for any mystery-solving enthusiast.
Agatha Christie’s Poirot
Based on the work of Agatha Christie, Agatha Christie’s Poirot follows the adventures of the eponymous detective, played by the legendary David Suchet. Poirot is a Belgian detective and one of the world’s most famous fictional sleuths. His famous “little grey cells” and outstanding analytical skills are the keys to his success in his investigations, making him a must-see for any mystery-solver. As Christie’s books have been adapted into many films and TV series, Poirot’s quick wit and resourcefulness remain ever-engaging, and his adventures still continue to captivate audiences to this day.
Endeavour
Endeavour is a prequel series to the classic British drama Inspector Morse, starring Shaun Evans as the lead detective. Set in 1960s Oxford, Endeavour follows the young Morse in his first professional steps as a detective. The show has won multiple awards and has its own dedicated fan base. It’s a no-brainer why; Endeavour is a captivating mix of classic British drama and nostalgic ‘60s aesthetics, a combination that rarely fails to please.
Death in Paradise
The last show on this list is the sun-kissed detective series Death in Paradise. Set on the Caribbean island of Saint Marie, the show follows DI Richard Poole, a London Metropolitan Police officer who is sent to the Caribbean to investigate a murder. Although he is used to the order and calm of an English city life, the island throws him off balance at first, as he has to adapt to its tropical climate and unusual customs. However, he soon gets accustomed to his new life on the island and works together with the local police force to solve some of the most unusual cases.
These five British crime dramas are sure to thrill any mystery-solving enthusiast. Whether you’re keen on modern technology and comedic timing, or classic sleuthing and elements of nostalgia, there is something for everyone. So slip on your detective hat and pick up one of these shows for a perfect crime-solving evening.