The 65+ Best Victorian Era Shows, Ranked

Ranker TV

Updated May 15, 2024 83.6K views 72 items

Ranked By

3.5K votes

1.1K voters

Voting Rules

Vote up the best shows set in the Victorian Era (from 1837-1901) that are not Westerns.

Latest additions: Belgravia: The Next Chapter, The Artful Dodger, The Buccaneers

Most divisive: Tipping the Velvet

Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 65+ Best Victorian Era Shows, Ranked

The Victorian era technically spans the reign of England's Queen Victoria, from 1837-1901, and marks a time of social change and the industrial revolution. The early-mid 1800s into the first steps of the 20th century was full of big changes all over the world. The same set of years contains everything from straightforward Charles Dickens adaptations to steampunk reimaginings of the era's most notable literary characters and detectives.

One of the more fascinating aspects of television series set in the Victorian Era is the knowledge that just across the pond (from 1865-1895 at least) was the Old West. The simultaneous experience of a world undergoing vast industrial change while also forging new horizons is part of what defines the Victorian era. As important as the West was, the best television series about the Victorian era focus not on cowboys but cities. Think The Alienist, not The Virginian.

Which of these top TV shows set in the Victorian era are the best? Vote up your choices for the best shows set in the late 1800s, and see where your favorite Victorian TV shows rank.

1
Sherlock Holmes
Jeremy Brett, Charles Gray, Edward Hardwicke
157 votes
Sherlock Holmes, the iconic detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, comes to life in this classic television adaptation starring Jeremy Brett. With his trusty sidekick Dr. John Watson (David Burke and later Edward Hardwicke), Holmes uses his brilliant mind and keen powers of observation to solve the most baffling cases. Set against the backdrop of Victorian London, the show masterfully explores the darker aspects of human nature while maintaining a sense of wit and charm. Brett's portrayal of Holmes remains one of the most memorable and beloved in the history of the character.
More Sherlock Holmes
- #11 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #19 of 45 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Elementary'
- #1 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
2
Ripper Street
Matthew Macfadyen, Jerome Flynn, MyAnna Buring
230 votes
In the dark and foreboding world of Ripper Street, the infamous Jack the Ripper has left his mark on London's East End. Detectives Edmund Reid (Matthew Macfadyen), Bennet Drake (Jerome Flynn), and Captain Homer Jackson (Adam Rothenberg) work tirelessly to maintain order and solve crimes in a time of great social upheaval. This gritty crime drama delves into the seedy underbelly of Victorian society, exploring themes of morality, corruption, and the impact of rapid industrialization on the city's inhabitants.
More Ripper Street
- #56 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #26 of 28 onTV Shows That Make You Feel Like Thomas Shelby
- #59 of 75 onTV Shows That Make You Feel Like A Gangster
3
The Alienist
Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, Dakota Fanning
265 votes
The Alienist plunges viewers into the seedy underbelly of 1896 New York City, where a series of gruesome child murders have shaken society to its core. Psychologist Dr. Laszlo Kreizler (Daniel Brühl), newspaper illustrator John Moore (Luke Evans), and police secretary Sara Howard (Dakota Fanning) form an unlikely team to track down the killer. This psychological thriller delves into the early days of criminal profiling and forensic science, all while exploring themes of mental illness, societal hypocrisy, and the pursuit of justice.
More The Alienist
- Dig Deeper...What To Watch If You Love 'The Alienist'
- #22 of 44 onThe Best Current Period Piece TV Shows Airing Now
- #207 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
4
Victoria
Jenna Coleman, Tom Hughes, Peter Bowles
222 votes
Victoria tells the story of the young Queen Victoria (Jenna Coleman), who ascends to the throne at just 18 years old. The series follows her journey from inexperienced monarch to powerful ruler, navigating the complexities of court life, politics, and romance. Alongside her devoted husband Prince Albert (Tom Hughes), they face numerous challenges and personal tragedies. The show is praised for its historical accuracy, sumptuous costumes, and captivating performances, making it a must-watch for fans of period drama.
More Victoria
- #14 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #4 of 80 onThe Best New Period Piece TV Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #191 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
5
Penny Dreadful
Timothy Dalton, Eva Green, Josh Hartnett
301 votes
Penny Dreadful weaves a tapestry of Gothic horror and Victorian melodrama, as it follows a group of characters - including explorer Sir Malcolm Murray (Timothy Dalton), psychic medium Vanessa Ives (Eva Green), and American gunslinger Ethan Chandler (Josh Hartnett) - brought together to combat supernatural threats in London. Filled with literary allusions and iconic figures like Dr. Frankenstein and Dorian Gray, this dark and atmospheric series explores themes of redemption, desire, and the human capacity for both good and evil.
More Penny Dreadful
- Dig Deeper...12 Easter Eggs In 'Penny Dreadful' Designed For Brainy Viewers
- And Deeper...Which 'Penny Dreadful' Character Are You Based On Your Zodiac?
- #24 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
6
North & South
Daniela Denby-Ashe, Richard Armitage, Tim Pigott-Smith
126 votes
North & South transports viewers to the industrial town of Milton, where Southern belle Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby-Ashe) struggles to adapt to her new surroundings after her family's relocation. Amidst the backdrop of labor unrest and class tensions, Margaret finds herself drawn to the stern mill owner John Thornton (Richard Armitage). This adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel deftly explores themes of love, social injustice, and personal growth, providing a captivating glimpse into the lives of those affected by the Industrial Revolution.
More North & South
- #26 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #13 of 139 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- #3 of 80 onThe 60+ Best Costume Drama TV Shows
7
Miss Scarlet and The Duke
Kate Phillips, Danny Midwinter, Stuart Martin
112 votes
Miss Scarlet and The Duke centers on the determined and resourceful Eliza Scarlet (Kate Phillips), who takes over her late father's detective agency in 19th-century London. With the help of her father's former associate, Inspector William "The Duke" Wellington (Stuart Martin), Eliza defies societal expectations and solves cases in a male-dominated profession. This crime drama combines elements of mystery, romance, and humor, as it explores themes of gender equality, friendship, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
More Miss Scarlet and The Duke
- #23 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- #11 of 44 onThe Best Current Period Piece TV Shows Airing Now
- #59 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
8
Murdoch Mysteries
Yannick Bisson, Helene Joy, Jonny Harris
112 votes
Set in Toronto during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Murdoch Mysteries follows the brilliant detective William Murdoch (Yannick Bisson) as he employs emerging scientific methods to solve the city's most baffling crimes. Assisted by the no-nonsense Inspector Thomas Brackenreid (Thomas Craig), pathologist Dr. Julia Ogden (Hélène Joy), and eager constable George Crabtree (Jonny Harris), Murdoch navigates a world of intrigue, innovation, and social change. The show has gained a loyal following for its engaging mysteries, historical accuracy, and charming characters.
More Murdoch Mysteries
- Dig Deeper...The Best Murdoch Mysteries Episodes
- #199 of 205 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- #24 of 76 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
9
Belgravia
Alice Eve, Philip Glenister, Tamsin Greig
86 votes
Belgravia, from the creator of Downton Abbey, transports viewers to the fashionable London district of Belgravia in the 1840s. The series revolves around the Trenchard family, whose lives become entwined with the aristocratic Brockenhursts after a long-held secret comes to light. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Tamsin Greig, Philip Glenister, and Harriet Walter, Belgravia deftly explores themes of class, loyalty, and the consequences of past actions in a world where appearances are everything.
More Belgravia
- #108 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #46 of 116 onThe Best New Cable Dramas of the Last Few Years
- #16 of 44 onThe Best Current Period Piece TV Shows Airing Now
10
Alias Grace
Sarah Gadon, Kerr Logan, Paul Gross
121 votes
Alias Grace, based on Margaret Atwood's novel, tells the story of Irish immigrant Grace Marks (Sarah Gadon), who is convicted of murder in 1840s Canada. As a young psychiatrist, Dr. Simon Jordan (Edward Holcroft), examines her case, the truth about the crime becomes increasingly elusive. This gripping miniseries delves into themes of memory, trauma, and the nature of guilt, providing a haunting exploration of the human psyche.
More Alias Grace
- #42 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #39 of 70 onThe Best Miniseries Of The 2010s
- #16 of 83 onThe 85+ Best Historical Shows On Netflix, Ranked

11
The Artful Dodger
Thomas Brodie-Sangster, David Thewlis, Maia Mitchell
27 votes
In 1850s Australia, 15 years after Oliver Twist, Jack Dawkins' past returns to haunt him.
More The Artful Dodger
- #486 of 685 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #704 of 1,054 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #27 of 80 onThe Best New Period Piece TV Shows Of The Last Few Years
12
The Nevers
Laura Donnelly, Olivia Williams, James Norton
98 votes
In the fantastical world of The Nevers, a group of Victorian women, known as "The Touched," suddenly find themselves endowed with extraordinary abilities. Led by the enigmatic Amalia True (Laura Donnelly) and brilliant inventor Penance Adair (Ann Skelly), these women navigate a society that both fears and exploits their powers, while uncovering a sinister conspiracy that threatens their very existence. This ambitious series combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and period drama, exploring themes of empowerment, prejudice, and the nature of heroism.
More The Nevers
- #43 of 305 onThe Best Shows Canceled After a Single Season
- #56 of 116 onThe Best New Cable Dramas of the Last Few Years
- #34 of 142 onThe Best New HBO Shows of the Last Few Years
13
Return to Cranford
Judi Dench, Jonathan Pryce
61 votes
Return to Cranford revisits the charming village of Cranford, where the indomitable Miss Matty Jenkyns (Judi Dench) and her fellow residents navigate the trials and tribulations of life in the 1840s. This continuation of the beloved miniseries, based on the novels by Elizabeth Gaskell, explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of community in a rapidly changing world. With its stellar ensemble cast, including Imelda Staunton, Julia McKenzie, and Jonathan Pryce, Return to Cranford remains a heartwarming tribute to the resilience of the human spirit.
14
Lark Rise to Candleford
Olivia Hallinan, Julia Sawalha, Brendan Coyle
76 votes
Lark Rise to Candleford, based on Flora Thompson's semi-autobiographical trilogy, chronicles the lives of the residents of two neighboring Oxfordshire communities in the late 19th century. Through the eyes of young Laura Timmins (Olivia Hallinan) and her mentor Dorcas Lane (Julia Sawalha), the series explores themes of family, friendship, and the clash between tradition and progress. This heartwarming drama, with its compelling stories and memorable characters, remains a testament to the enduring power of community and the human spirit.
More Lark Rise to Candleford
- #15 of 74 onThe 70+ Best BBC Period Dramas, Ranked
- #10 of 50 onThe 45+ Best British Shows On Hulu, Ranked
- #47 of 47 onThe 45+ Best Romance Shows On Hulu, Ranked
15
Bleak House
Anna Maxwell Martin, Denis Lawson, Patrick Kennedy
55 votes
In the sprawling world of Bleak House, Charles Dickens' classic novel comes to life with an ensemble cast led by Gillian Anderson as the enigmatic Lady Dedlock and Anna Maxwell Martin as the orphaned Esther Summerson. This intricate tale weaves together the lives of its characters as they navigate the complexities of the infamous Jarndyce and Jarndyce lawsuit, exploring themes of injustice, greed, and the corrosive effects of the legal system. With its rich storytelling and unforgettable performances, Bleak House remains a powerful indictment of Victorian society and a compelling examination of the human heart.
16
The English Game
Edward Holcroft, Kevin Guthrie, Charlotte Hope
60 votes
The English Game, created by Downton Abbey's Julian Fellowes, delves into the origins of modern football and the class tensions that shaped the sport in 19th-century England. The series follows two teams, one representing the working class and the other the aristocracy, as they compete for glory and strive to overcome their differences. Starring Edward Holcroft, Kevin Guthrie, and Charlotte Hope, The English Game skillfully explores themes of ambition, rivalry, and the transformative power of sport in a rapidly changing society.
More The English Game
- #99 of 652 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #190 of 1,054 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #8 of 44 onThe Best Current Period Piece TV Shows Airing Now
17
Cranford
Simon Woods, Judi Dench, Eileen Atkins
57 votes
Cranford, based on the novels by Elizabeth Gaskell, invites viewers into the close-knit community of a small Cheshire town in the 1840s. Led by the indomitable Miss Matty Jenkyns (Judi Dench), the residents of Cranford navigate the challenges of daily life, from romance and heartache to the encroaching forces of industrialization. With its stellar ensemble cast, including Imelda Staunton, Eileen Atkins, and Michael Gambon, Cranford is a heartwarming exploration of the bonds that unite us and the power of friendship in an ever-changing world.
18
The Paradise
Sarah Lancashire, Emun Elliott, Joanna Vanderham
85 votes
The Paradise transports viewers to the sumptuous world of England's first department store, where ambitious shop girl Denise Lovett (Joanna Vanderham) rises through the ranks under the watchful eye of owner John Moray (Emun Elliott). Set against the backdrop of Victorian consumerism and changing social mores, this lush adaptation of Émile Zola's novel explores themes of ambition, love, and the allure of the new and fashionable. With its captivating characters and lavish production design, The Paradise offers a window into a world where desire and commerce collide.
19
Doctor Thorne
Tom Hollander, Stefanie Martini, Harry Richardson
55 votes
Doctor Thorne, adapted from Anthony Trollope's novel by Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, tells the story of the titular physician (Tom Hollander) as he navigates the complexities of love and class in Victorian England. When his penniless niece Mary (Stefanie Martini) falls in love with the heir to a great estate, Doctor Thorne must choose between his loyalty to his family and the strictures of society. This charming period drama explores themes of ambition, integrity, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
20
The Irregulars
McKell David, Thaddea Graham, Jojo Macari
70 votes
The Irregulars introduces viewers to a ragtag group of street urchins, led by the resourceful Bea (Thaddea Graham), who are enlisted by the enigmatic Dr. Watson (Royce Pierreson) to solve supernatural crimes in Victorian London. As they uncover the truth about their own connection to these strange occurrences, they must also contend with the elusive Sherlock Holmes (Henry Lloyd-Hughes). This reimagining of the classic Holmes stories offers a fresh perspective on the familiar characters while delving into themes of friendship, destiny, and the struggle for identity.
More The Irregulars
- #135 of 652 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #257 of 1,054 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #75 of 305 onThe Best Shows Canceled After a Single Season

21
Dead Still
Michael Smiley, Jimmy Smallhorne, Eileen O'Higgins
28 votes
Dead Still transports viewers to 1880s Dublin, where renowned memorial photographer Brock Blennerhasset (Michael Smiley) becomes embroiled in a series of macabre murders that mirror his own work. As he and his assistant Conall Molloy (Kerr Logan) delve into the city's criminal underworld, they uncover a web of intrigue that threatens their very existence. This darkly comedic crime drama expertly blends elements of mystery, horror, and period drama, exploring themes of mortality, art, and the human fascination with death.
More Dead Still
- #182 of 1,054 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #18 of 44 onThe Best Current Period Piece TV Shows Airing Now
- #35 of 76 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
22
The Forsyte Saga
Damian Lewis, Ioan Gruffudd, Rupert Graves
59 votes
In 2002, The Forsyte Saga returned to television screens with a new adaptation that breathed fresh life into John Galsworthy's timeless story. Starring Damian Lewis as Soames Forsyte and Gina McKee as Irene Heron, this lavish production delves deep into the passions and rivalries that drive the characters, exploring themes of love, obsession, and the consequences of our actions. With its stellar cast and sumptuous production values, The Forsyte Saga continues to captivate audiences with its powerful examination of human nature and the complexities of the human heart.
More The Forsyte Saga
- #12 of 55 onThe 45+ Best PBS Shows Of All Time, Ranked
- #62 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #13 of 77 onThe 70+ Best BBC Period Dramas, Ranked
23
Dickinson
Hailee Steinfeld, Toby Huss, Adrian Enscoe
70 votes
Dickinson offers a fresh take on the life of iconic American poet Emily Dickinson (Hailee Steinfeld), blending historical drama with modern sensibilities and humor. Set in the 1850s, the series follows Emily as she navigates the constraints of her time, defying societal expectations and pursuing her passion for writing. With its innovative storytelling, strong ensemble cast, and exploration of themes such as gender, sexuality, and artistic expression, Dickinson provides a unique and unconventional glimpse into the life of one of America's most beloved poets.
More Dickinson
- #20 of 38 onThe Best Guilty Pleasure TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #47 of 50 on50 Snubs From The 2020 Emmy Nominations
- #23 of 112 onThe 90 Best Apple TV Plus Shows, Ranked
24
Copper
Franka Potente, Anastasia Griffith, Kyle Schmid
46 votes
Copper transports viewers to the gritty world of 1860s New York City, where Irish-American detective Kevin Corcoran (Tom Weston-Jones) navigates the city's criminal underworld in search of justice. As he uncovers the truth about his wife's disappearance and his daughter's murder, Corcoran is drawn into a web of corruption that extends to the highest levels of society. This gripping crime drama delves into themes of power, loyalty, and the struggle for redemption amidst the chaos and violence of the Civil War era.
25
Tess of the D'Urbervilles
Gemma Arterton, Eddie Redmayne, Ruth Jones
34 votes
Tess of the D'Urbervilles, based on Thomas Hardy's tragic novel, tells the story of Tess Durbeyfield (Gemma Arterton), a young woman whose life is forever changed when she discovers her connection to a wealthy family. As she is drawn into a world of love, betrayal, and heartbreak, Tess must navigate the complexities of class, desire, and fate. This sumptuous adaptation remains faithful to Hardy's original work, exploring themes of innocence, cruelty, and the inexorable forces that shape our lives.
26
The Frankenstein Chronicles
Sean Bean, Tom Ward, Richie Campbell
22 votes
The Frankenstein Chronicles transports viewers to 1820s London, where Inspector John Marlott (Sean Bean) is tasked with investigating a series of grisly murders that bear a chilling resemblance to Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein. As he uncovers the truth behind these crimes, Marlott becomes entangled in a dark conspiracy that extends far beyond his wildest imaginings. This atmospheric thriller masterfully blends elements of crime drama, Gothic horror, and historical fiction, exploring themes of morality, ambition, and the consequences of playing God.
27
The Terror
Derek Mio, Shingo Usami, Naoko Mori
58 votes
The Terror, inspired by the true story of Sir John Franklin's doomed Arctic expedition, follows the crews of the HMS Erebus and HMS Terror as they are beset by treacherous conditions, dwindling supplies, and a mysterious supernatural threat. Led by Captain Francis Crozier (Jared Harris) and Captain Sir John Franklin (Ciarán Hinds), the men struggle to survive against all odds, exploring themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the limits of human endurance. This chilling series masterfully blends historical drama and supernatural horror, providing a haunting and unforgettable viewing experience.
More The Terror
- Dig Deeper...The Creepy True Story Behind AMC’S Horror Series 'The Terror'
- #28 of 35 onThe 30 Best Drama Series On Cable
- #48 of 71 onThe 75+ Scariest TV Shows Of All Time, Ranked
28
Wives and Daughters
Rosamund Pike, Michael Gambon, Iain Glen
33 votes
Wives and Daughters, based on Elizabeth Gaskell's unfinished novel, follows the life of spirited Molly Gibson (Justine Waddell) as she navigates the complexities of love, family, and class in Victorian England. When her widowed father remarries, Molly finds herself thrown into a new world of secrets, rivalries, and heartache. With its engaging characters and lush production design, this captivating adaptation explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the enduring bonds of love in a rapidly changing society.
29
The English
Emily Blunt, Chaske Spencer, Stephen Rea
16 votes
The English is a riveting Western drama that blends elements of mystery and suspense. Set in the expansive landscapes of 1890's Wyoming, it follows an Englishwoman (Emily Blunt) who embarks on a dangerous quest for revenge for the death of her son. The show is lauded for its compelling storytelling, stunning cinematography, and standout performances, particularly from Blunt in the lead role. The themes include vengeance, survival, cultural clashes, and gender. Despite its recent debut, The English has already made significant waves in the television industry with its take on the Western genre.
More The English
- #118 of 685 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #123 of 1,054 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #326 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
30
Cribb
Thorley Walters, Alan Dobie, William Simons
20 votes
Cribb transports viewers to the gritty streets of Victorian London, where Sergeant Cribb (Alan Dobie) and Constable Thackeray (William Simons) work tirelessly to solve crimes and bring criminals to justice. Based on the novels by Peter Lovesey, this engaging crime drama combines elements of mystery, humor, and period detail, exploring themes of loyalty, morality, and the pursuit of justice in a time of great social upheaval.

Sherlock Holmes

Return to Cranford

Tess of the D'Urbervilles