The Best British Sitcoms of All Time, Ranked
- 1John Cleese, Prunella Scales, Connie Booth
Welcome to the quintessential British comedy that revolves around a hapless hotel owner and his staff's outlandish antics. Chaos always seems to find them as they navigate through endless mishaps and, of course, the eccentric guests they encounter. No need to check out; a stay at this locale guarantees enough laughter and entertainment to ensure you never want to leave.
More Fawlty Towers
- Dig Deeper...The Best Fawlty Towers Episodes
- #40 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #59 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- 2David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst, Buster Merryfield
Delve into the lives of two ambitious brothers relentlessly devising schemes to escape their working-class life in South London. However, their harebrained attempts to get rich quick often lead to hilarious complications and far-fetched plots that'll leave viewers in stitches. Jump on their three-wheeled van and join the Trotters on an uproarious ride of side-splitting shenanigans.
More Only Fools and Horses- #321 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #271 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #182 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- 3Rowan Atkinson, Brian Blessed, Elspet Gray
Travel through the ages with this darkly comedic romp which weaves in and out of significant moments within British history. The series follows the trials and tribulations of Edmund Blackadder, a self-serving, opportunistic character forever seeking social advancement - often at the expense of his bumbling sidekicks. Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of farcical predicaments, cunning schemes, and razor-sharp wit delivered in delightful period settings.
More Blackadder- #141 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #132 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #5 of 13 onThe Best Shows On Hulu
- 4Rowan Atkinson
Good old Mr. Bean – that lovable, resourceful, yet socially awkward buffoon – continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences worldwide. The enduring appeal of Rowan Atkinson's brilliant physical comedy and endearing child-like antics has earned this classic sitcom a well-deserved spot on this list. Leave your worries behind, as each episode delivers another dose of visual humour that transcends all language barriers.
More Mr. Bean- #18 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #24 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #67 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- 5Rowan Atkinson, Tony Robinson, Elspet Gray
The original series that kickstarted the legendary Blackadder saga takes us through the uproarious shenanigans and ludicrous schemes of Prince Edmund and his dimwitted accomplice, Baldrick. Set during the tumultuous reign of Richard III, this witty and irreverent comedy blends history, dark humour, and unscrupulous characters with some truly hilarious results. After all, who doesn't enjoy watching an incompetent royal ineptly bungle his way through treachery and farce?
More The Black Adder- #165 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #46 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- #124 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 6Dermot Morgan, Ardal O'Hanlon, Frank Kelly
Follow the misadventures of three Irish priests exiled to the remote Craggy Island Parish. Their attempts to manage the eccentric islanders while dealing with their own peculiarities make for some truly hysterical television. It's a divine comedy that will have viewers counting their blessings for having stumbled across such a holy rollercoaster of laughter.
More Father Ted- #319 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #244 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #407 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 7Ronnie Barker, Brian Wilde, Fulton Mackay
Take a peek behind the bars of the fictional Slade Prison and meet Norman Stanley Fletcher, a quick-witted convict who's always one step ahead of the guards. Trading barbs with vindictive wardens and navigating life amongst criminals might seem like a recipe for disaster, but trust us, this laugh-filled incarceration has never been more enjoyable. Round up your crew and get ready to serve time with this brilliant slice of British humour.
More Porridge- #227 of 388 onThe Best Guilty Pleasure TV Shows
- #13 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #3 of 39 onThe Best British Sitcoms Of The '70s
- 8Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier, Clive Dunn
A ragtag group of bumbling volunteer soldiers unites to defend the homefront during World War II. Despite their limitations and clear unsuitability for the task, their unwavering patriotism and camaraderie make for some truly heartwarming and hilarious moments. Bursting with memorable catchphrases and impeccably timed slapstick, this iconic sitcom stands as an enduring tribute to the resilience of the British spirit.
More Dad's Army- #123 of 388 onThe Best Guilty Pleasure TV Shows
- #10 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #6 of 39 onThe Best British Sitcoms Of The '70s
- 9Dawn French, Gary Waldhorn, James Fleet
When a vibrant female vicar arrives in a sleepy, conservative village, you know nothing will be quite the same again. A delightful mix of eccentric locals, heartwarming relationships, and an irrepressibly optimistic protagonist combine for a feel-good comedy that will leave you both entertained and uplifted. Say "amen" to some genuine laughs as the lovable vicar shakes up sleepy Dibley.
More The Vicar of Dibley- #234 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #155 of 265 onThe 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
- #21 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- 10Richard Wilson, Annette Crosbie, Angus Deayton
Embrace your inner curmudgeon with this hilarious tale of grumpy, retired Victor Meldrew, whose knack for attracting misfortune leads him to constantly preface calamity. His hapless exploits, biting sarcasm, and run-ins with eccentric neighbours will have you in stitches. Hang up that retirement hat and dive into this superb comedy series that laughs in the face of aging and life's absurdities.
More One Foot in the Grave- #9 of 43 on40+ Movies And Shows With Grave In The Title
- #22 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #5 of 37 onThe Best British Sitcoms Of The '90s
- 11Richard Ayoade, Chris O'Dowd, Katherine Parkinson
Ever had technical difficulties? Look no further than this quintessential sitcom about a chaotic IT department buried deep within a major corporation. Their mismatched personalities, ill-advised solutions, and inability to handle actual human beings make for a series full of laugh-out-loud moments. So hit Ctrl+Alt+Delete and prepare for a rib-tickling ride with this wacky team of tech misfits.
More The IT Crowd- #140 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #193 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #130 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- 12Ronnie Barker, David Jason, Lynda Baron
Set in a small corner shop, this comedy gem goes the extra mile to deliver a barrel of laughs with each passing customer. Warm-hearted shopkeeper Arkwright's penny-pinching ways, gripping sales pitches, and shaky relationship with his long-suffering nephew provide an endless source of amusement. Stop by for a shopping trip you won't forget – the comedic bargains are too good to pass up!
More Open All Hours- #21 of 93 on95+ Movies And Shows With Hours In The Title
- #20 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #9 of 39 onThe Best British Sitcoms Of The '70s
- 13Gorden Kaye, Carmen Silvera, Rose Hill
Set in occupied France during World War II, this uproarious sitcom follows café owner René Artois as he juggles hiding valuable artwork, aiding the Resistance, and keeping his multiple love affairs hidden from his wife. Throw in a continuous array of farcical misunderstandings and accents galore, and you've got a laugh-filled recipe for success. Vive la résistance, vive la hilarity!
More 'Allo 'Allo!- #340 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #207 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #12 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- 14Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne, Derek Fowlds
In this sharp-witted political satire, a naïve cabinet minister navigates the maddening world of government bureaucracy, led astray by the cunning civil servant Sir Humphrey Appleby. Battling between public interest and personal ambition, this series offers a hysterical glimpse into the inner workings of British politics. With top-notch dialogue and superb performances, you'll be voting "aye" for more of this comical game of power and manipulation.
More Yes Minister- #256 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #19 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #15 of 62 onThe 55+ Best Political Thriller Shows
- 15Simon Bird, James Buckley, Blake Harrison
High school's an awkward time for anyone, but these four lads manage to take cringe-worthy adolescence to a whole new level. As they bumble their way through the perils of teen life, their misguided attempts to fit in and find love result in side-splitting blunders, earning them a special place in the hearts of viewers. Buckle up for a relatable and riotous ride down memory lane.
More The Inbetweeners- #366 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #211 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- #286 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 16Clive Swift, Josephine Tewson, Judy Cornwell
Social climbing has never been more hilarious than with Hyacinth Bucket, pronounced "Bouquet", as she desperately tries to disguise her humble origins and ascend the social ladder. As she concocts elaborate schemes to impress, her long-suffering husband Richard and eccentric family often bring her plans crashing down. No need to put on airs – this bouquet of laughs is best enjoyed with a nice cup of tea and a hearty chuckle.
More Keeping Up Appearances- #273 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #168 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #123 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- 17Craig Charles, Danny John-Jules, Chris Barrie
Blast off into outer space with this zany sci-fi comedy featuring the last human alive, a humanoid cat, a hologram pal, and a service android. As they navigate an array of bizarre encounters and cosmic calamities, their misadventures offer plenty of interstellar humour that will both tickle your funny bone and engage your brain. A cosmic journey like no other – to infinity and beyond!
More Red Dwarf- #52 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- #247 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #220 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- 18Trevor Bannister, John Inman, Wendy Richard
Take a trip down memory lane to the days of Grace Brothers Department Store, where the staff's antics and bickering provide snort-inducing laughs at every turn. When outrageous slapstick and risqué innuendos collide, you've got yourself a mighty comedic concoction that will leave you browsing for more. Time to clock in and prepare for a hilarious shift at this retail legend.
More Are You Being Served?- #240 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #173 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #111 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- 19Richard Briers, Felicity Kendal, Penelope Keith
Meet Tom and Barbara as they bid farewell to the rat race and embrace self-sufficiency in their very own suburban backyard. As the couple navigates gardening dilemmas, livestock misadventures, and bemused neighbours, their contagious enthusiasm for their new lifestyle transforms the mundane into the laugh-out-loud. Harvest a fresh crop of chuckles with this comic take on the simpler and 'greener' side of life.
- 20Paul Eddington, Nigel Hawthorne, Derek Fowlds
The political shenanigans continue as former minister Jim Hacker ascends to become Britain's leader, only to discover that true power lies in the hands of the unscrupulous civil servants surrounding him. Sharp-witted and perceptive, this series offers both a laugh-inducing and thought-provoking look at the challenges and absurdities of political life. Cast your ballot for another dose of hilarious politicking.
- 21
Blackadder's Christmas Carol
Rowan Atkinson, Rony Robinson, Stephen FryEver wondered what would have happened if Ebenezer Scrooge was a Machiavellian villain instead of a miserly old man? Combining the elements of Charles Dickens' cherished classic with the inimitable wit of the Blackadder series, this festive special poses that very question. Stuff your stockings with laughter as this unique spin on a familiar tale teaches us the true meaning of 'bah humbug!'
- 22Peter Sallis, Robert Fyfe, Russ Abbot
Join this lovable trio of senior "delinquents" as they embark on hare-brained schemes and revel in life's simple pleasures amidst the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. Proving that age is but a number, their contagious enthusiasm for mischief offers a heartwarming reminder that it's never too late to have fun. Raise a glass and toast to this delightful celebration of friendship, laughter, and scenic splendour.
More Last of the Summer Wine- #2 of 40 on40+ Movies And Shows With Wine In The Title
- #39 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #16 of 37 onThe Best British Sitcoms Of The '90s
- 23Adrian Edmondson, Rik Mayall, Nigel Planer
Prepare for anarchy, in all its comedic glory, as we follow the lives of four mismatched university students from very different backgrounds sharing dilapidated digs. With generous helpings of surrealism, slapstick, and social commentary, their turbulent interactions and oddball adventures never fail to deliver uproarious laughter. Grab your textbooks and buckle in for a lesson you won't forget.
- 24Judi Dench, Geoffrey Palmer, Philip Bretherton
Pull up a chair and indulge in this bittersweet tale of two long-lost lovers rekindling their romance after 38 years apart. With delightful chemistry, comic misunderstandings, and a refreshing blend of witty banter and tender moments, it's no wonder this charming story has captured the hearts of viewers. Time flies when you're sharing a laugh with this lovable duo.
More As Time Goes By- #177 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #42 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #15 of 37 onThe Best British Sitcoms Of The '90s
- 25Jennifer Saunders, Joanna Lumley, Julia Sawalha
Immerse yourself in the wild and glamorous world of fashion PR agent Edina Monsoon and her hard-partying magazine editor BFF, Patsy Stone. Their obsession with youth, appearance, and hedonism leads them into countless absurd situations, making this satirical sitcom as bold and intoxicating as a bottle of Bolly. Get ready for a whirlwind of comic misadventures that redefine what it means to be absolutely fabulous.
More Absolutely Fabulous- #278 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #160 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #148 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- 26
Doc Martin
Martin Clunes, Caroline Catz, Ian McNeiceSurly and irritable, the titular character's bedside manner leaves much to be desired, but his brilliance as a surgeon is undeniable. After developing a sudden phobia of blood, he relocates from London to a small Cornish village where he must adapt to a new life as a general practitioner. Watch as the grouchy doctor reluctantly becomes ingrained in village life, with plenty of endearing moments, offbeat characters, and laugher along the journey.
More Doc Martin- #275 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #43 of 203 onThe 190 Best British Comedy TV Shows, Ranked
- #2 of 75 onThe Very The Best ITV Shows
- 27
Steptoe and Son
Wilfrid Brambell, Harry H. CorbettIt doesn't get much more classic than joining the rag-and-bone men of yore on a tumultuous trip down Coronation Street. As each generation tries to break free from the other's stifling influence, their contentious relationship fuels both laughter and heartbreak. Step aboard their rickety wagon and prepare for a bumpy, but hilarious, ride through British comedy history.
- 28David Mitchell, Robert Webb, Olivia Colman
Enter the minds of two mismatched flatmates as their inner monologues are hilariously laid bare while they navigate life's absurdities and unpredictable relationships. Employing a unique point-of-view filmmaking style, this darkly hilarious series offers an intimate look at modern friendship and the hapless human condition. Grab your peephole, settle in, and prepare to laugh out loud.
More Peep Show- #342 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #21 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
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- 29Ricky Gervais, Mackenzie Crook, Lucy Davis
Peer into the mundane yet uproarious world of a nondescript paper supply company, where daily life is anything but ordinary. Famed for its mockumentary style, cringe-worthy humour, and David Brent's appalling leadership skills, this groundbreaking sitcom captures the soul-sucking ennui of 9-to-5 life and the desperate attempts to find amusement within it. Time to clock in for a day you won't forget!
More The Office- #192 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #91 of 281 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- #91 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- 30Adrian Edmondson, Rik Mayall
Take a break from propriety and immerse yourself in the vulgar escapades of two hapless flatmates as they cause chaos and destruction wherever they go. Brimming with outrageously lowbrow humour, slapstick violence, and ridiculous scenarios, this series delivers a rough-and-tumble romp that's not for the faint-hearted. Strap in for some wild laughs and delightfully unrefined amusement.
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