13 Period Dramas Every Historical Romance Fan Should Watch
Period dramas have a special way of bringing history to life through sweeping romances and unforgettable characters. These shows blend heartfelt love stories with the beauty of past eras, offering both elegance and emotional depth. From royal courts to countryside estates, each series creates a world where passion and tradition collide. If you enjoy timeless stories filled with charm, drama, and romance, these dramas are perfect picks for your watchlist.
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Outlander
Outlander is an enchanting mix of historical events, romance, and time travel, which makes it a must-watch for any historical romance lover. The show follows Claire Randall, a 20th-century nurse who mysteriously travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland, where she meets the passionate and brave Jamie Fraser. Their love story, tested by time, war, and cultural divides, keeps viewers captivated. The series blends the romantic tension between Claire and Jamie with the historical backdrop of Scotland’s Jacobite uprising, offering both thrilling adventure and deep emotional connection. This series is not just about love; it explores loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of historical changes.
What makes Outlander especially appealing is its ability to balance heart-wrenching romance with an immersive historical experience. The stunning landscapes of Scotland and well-researched historical details draw you into a world where every moment feels both intensely personal and politically significant. Fans of historical romance will find themselves hooked by the chemistry between the leads and the rich, evolving storylines that span multiple eras.
Bridgerton
Bridgerton is a dazzling spectacle of romance set in Regency-era London, with sharp wit, sumptuous costumes, and sweeping love stories. The show, based on Julia Quinn’s book series, follows the lives of the powerful Bridgerton family, particularly their romantic escapades in high society. Each season centers around a different Bridgerton sibling’s love story, filled with societal pressure, hidden desires, and forbidden love. The series brings to life a world of glittering balls, passionate affairs, and biting social commentary, offering a perfect blend of romance and drama.
The show’s appeal lies not just in the opulent setting but in its vibrant characters and the chemistry that builds between them. From Daphne and Simon’s sizzling, slow-burning romance to the power dynamics explored in later seasons, Bridgerton offers historical romance fans everything they crave: drama, depth, and characters who struggle with societal expectations while pursuing their heart’s desires. It’s a modern take on the classic period drama that still captures the elegance of the past.
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story
As a prequel to Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story delves into the backstory of Queen Charlotte, the beloved character from the original series. The show explores her unlikely and tender romance with King George III, providing a glimpse into their whirlwind courtship and the challenges they faced in a politically charged royal environment. Queen Charlotte’s rise to power as a queen and the development of her relationship with King George add a layer of historical intrigue to the love story, making it a fascinating watch for anyone who appreciates royal drama.
What sets this show apart is its focus on the complexities of royal duty and personal desire, particularly in a time when the monarch’s role was all-consuming. It combines the elegance of Bridgerton with a deeper exploration of the struggles and triumphs that come with being both a queen and a woman in love, making it an essential watch for fans of historical romance.
Downton Abbey
Downton Abbey is a timeless British classic that offers an enthralling view into the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. The show spans several decades, from the early 20th century to the post-World War II period, providing a sweeping canvas for love stories both above and below stairs. The romance between Lady Mary Crawley and Matthew Crawley, despite societal expectations and family pressure, is at the heart of the series, filled with emotional depth and passionate conflict.
Beyond the romance, Downton Abbey offers a nuanced exploration of class, loyalty, and tradition, making it a rich period drama with compelling love stories at its core. Fans of historical romance will appreciate the slow-building relationships, beautiful period details, and the overall sense of grandeur that defines the series. Each romance in the show is layered with complexity, from secret affairs to unexpected unions, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy seeing love grow in the face of social challenges.
Pride & Prejudice (2005)
This adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice is widely regarded as one of the most beloved period dramas for historical romance enthusiasts. The film, starring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy, captures the essence of Austen’s sharp social commentary and romantic tension. Set in Regency-era England, it tells the story of the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet and her developing feelings for the aloof and seemingly proud Mr. Darcy.
The chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy is palpable, and the film expertly navigates their shifting relationship from initial disdain to mutual respect and love. The lush cinematography, exquisite costumes, and perfect pacing of the romance make this a timeless classic for fans of historical romance. The societal obstacles and emotional growth of the characters make their eventual union deeply satisfying and emotionally rich.
The Tudors
The Tudors brings the drama of the Tudor dynasty to life, focusing primarily on the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII. The series, known for its lavish production and dramatic flair, explores Henry’s multiple marriages and his desperate quest for a male heir. The romance, particularly the passionate but tragic relationships Henry has with his wives, such as Anne Boleyn and Catherine of Aragon, drives much of the action.
What makes The Tudors captivating for historical romance lovers is the tension between love, power, and betrayal. The courtly intrigue and dramatic personal relationships are set against the backdrop of major historical events, making this series an unforgettable exploration of how romance can change the course of history. The drama between Henry and his wives showcases the devastating effects of royal ambitions and the love lives of powerful figures.
Victoria
The story of Queen Victoria’s rise to power and her passionate romance with Prince Albert is beautifully told in the series Victoria. From the early days of Victoria’s reign, the show offers an intimate look at her personal life, focusing on her deep love for Prince Albert and the challenges they face together. This period drama captures the tension between Victoria’s duties as monarch and her desire to love and be loved, while also exploring her relationship with the people around her.
The romance between Victoria and Albert is the heart of the series, but it is also deeply rooted in the historical and political context of the time. The series portrays their strong partnership and the sacrifices they make for their love and country, making it a compelling choice for those who love a royal romance with historical depth.
The White Queen
Based on Philippa Gregory’s best-selling historical novels, The White Queen brings the tumultuous Wars of the Roses to life through the eyes of three women vying for power and love. The series focuses on Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner who rises to become the queen of England, and her passionate love affair with King Edward IV. The political intrigue, love triangles, and historical backdrop create a gripping tale that is both romantic and dramatic.
The White Queen offers a complex look at how love and power collide in a time of political unrest. The series is filled with suspense, betrayal, and fierce female characters, making it a must-watch for fans of historical romance. The romance, set against the backdrop of war and royal ambitions, offers a thrilling and intense love story that is hard to forget.
The Last Kingdom
Set during the Viking invasions of England, The Last Kingdom is an action-packed series that also includes a rich love story between Uhtred of Bebbanburg and various women he encounters on his journey. While the series is filled with battles and political intrigue, the relationships Uhtred forms add an emotional depth to the story. His devotion to his love interests, despite the brutal and often violent world around him, makes for an engaging romantic subplot.
What sets The Last Kingdom apart is its ability to mix intense historical action with intimate romantic moments. The series showcases how love can endure even amidst war and turmoil, with Uhtred’s relationships offering a glimmer of hope and human connection in an otherwise harsh world.
Sanditon
Based on Jane Austen’s unfinished novel, Sanditon offers a fresh take on the classic Austen formula with a twist. Set in a seaside resort town, the show follows Charlotte Heywood, a young woman who becomes involved in a complicated love story with the charming Sidney Parker. As with most Austen tales, there are misunderstandings, societal expectations, and class differences that add layers to the romance.
While it carries the charm and wit Austen is known for, Sanditon also introduces more modern themes of ambition and societal change. The growing attraction between Charlotte and Sidney, against the backdrop of the emerging seaside resort industry, makes this series a delightful and engaging watch for fans of historical romance.
Lark Rise to Candleford
This British drama set in the late 19th century depicts the contrast between two neighboring communities, one prosperous and the other poor. It follows the life of Laura Timmins, a young woman who moves to the more affluent Candleford to work at the local post office. The show weaves in several romantic storylines, particularly Laura’s relationship with the charming and earnest Thomas Brown.
Lark Rise to Candleford is perfect for those who enjoy slow-burning romance, with characters who experience personal growth and emotional development. The peaceful setting, combined with heartfelt love stories, offers a cozy and satisfying viewing experience. The relationships in the series are deeply intertwined with the community dynamics, making it an insightful and endearing show.
Call the Midwife
Set in the 1950s and 1960s, Call the Midwife is a heartwarming series that captures the lives of midwives in London’s East End. While the show focuses on the medical and social issues of the time, the romantic subplots, especially the relationship between Nurse Trixie Franklin and her various suitors, provide emotional depth and warmth. The romance is woven into the broader themes of community, care, and social change, making it both a touching and engaging period drama.
What sets Call the Midwife apart is its focus on the human connection and the challenges of love during a time of societal shifts. The relationships develop naturally, and the show does an excellent job of showcasing the trials and triumphs of love in a historical context. Fans of historical romance will enjoy the tender moments and the slow, heartfelt evolution of relationships over time.
Versailles
Versailles is a sumptuous drama set during the reign of King Louis XIV of France. The series offers a glimpse into the opulent world of the French court, where power, politics, and romance collide. The central romance between Louis XIV and his many loves, including his wife Maria Theresa, is filled with passion, manipulation, and rivalry.
The show excels at portraying the complexities of courtly love, where romance often comes with betrayal and ambition. Versailles is perfect for viewers who appreciate historical settings filled with intrigue, where love is always under the threat of political scheming and royal duty. The lavish sets, dramatic tension, and historical depth make this series a must-watch for anyone who loves historical romance with a touch of royal drama.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.