The Very Best British Crime Dramas
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- 1Shaun Evans, Roger Allam, Anton Lesser
Set in the picturesque city of Oxford, this prequel to Inspector Morse is nothing short of a top-notch crime drama. With Shaun Evans taking up the mantle as young Endeavour Morse and Roger Allam as his trusty sidekick DI Fred Thursday, it's no wonder that audiences have been glued to their screens. This atmospheric series expertly weaves complex plots while delving into the personal lives and relationships of its protagonists, making for a truly captivating watch.
More Endeavour
- 2
Unforgotten
Sanjeev Bhaskar, Jordan Long, Carolina MainUnravelling the mysteries of cold cases, this gripping crime drama has had viewers on tenterhooks since it first aired. The brilliant duo of Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar, playing DCI Cassie Stuart and DI Sunil 'Sunny' Khan respectively, have captivated audiences with their compelling chemistry and tenacity. Delving into the murky pasts of long-forgotten victims whilst unearthing skeletons in the closets of seemingly ordinary people, this show has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the British television landscape.
More Unforgotten- #3 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #3 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- #7 of 55 onThe 45+ Best PBS Shows Of All Time, Ranked
- 3Alison O'Donnell, Steven Robertson, Lewis Howden
With breathtaking landscapes serving as a backdrop to grisly crimes, it's difficult not to be drawn in by this thrilling whodunit series. Set in the remote Scottish archipelago from which it takes its name, Douglas Henshall's portrayal of brooding DI Jimmy Perez has captivated audiences since day one. Weaving together intricate narratives with a slow-burning tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, this crime drama has proven itself to be a standout gem in the pantheon of British television.
More Shetland- #5 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #2 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- #3 of 99 onThe Best Crime Dramas Of 2024, Ranked
- 4
Line Of Duty
Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, Kelly MacdonaldA veritable rollercoaster ride through the world of corrupt police officers, this adrenaline-fueled crime drama has kept viewers on their toes from start to finish. Created by Jed Mercurio, it boasts a stellar cast including Adrian Dunbar as Superintendent Ted Hastings, Vicky McClure as DI Kate Fleming and Martin Compston as DS Steve Arnott. With heart-stopping twists at every turn and characters that are both morally ambiguous and utterly engaging, this series has cemented its place among UK's finest TV offerings.
More Line of Duty- #3 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #12 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #9 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- 5David Tennant, Olivia Colman, Andrew Buchan
When a young boy's body is discovered on a picturesque seaside town's beach, audiences were instantly hooked on this riveting whodunit. Starring David Tennant as DI Alec Hardy and Olivia Colman as DS Ellie Miller, it's no surprise that viewers have been enthralled by their tense partnership and compelling storylines. A masterclass in suspenseful storytelling and character-driven drama, this series has struck a chord with millions of fans across the globe.
More Broadchurch- #175 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #22 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #51 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- 6Sarah Lancashire, Siobhan Finneran, Shane Zaza
Set against the backdrop of rural Yorkshire, this gritty yet heart-wrenching crime drama is not one for the faint-hearted. Sarah Lancashire delivers an outstanding performance as Catherine Cawood, a police sergeant battling personal demons whilst doggedly pursuing criminals in her seemingly idyllic community. With raw emotion and nail-biting tension aplenty, there's no denying that this show packs one hell of a punch.
More Happy Valley- #16 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #201 of 204 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- #29 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- 7Kevin Whately, Laurence Fox, Rebecca Front
As the successor to the much-loved Inspector Morse series, it was always going to be a tough act to follow. However, Kevin Whately's return as Robbie Lewis alongside Laurence Fox as his sharp-witted partner DS James Hathaway ensured that this crime drama would stand proudly alongside its predecessor. Delighting fans with intricate plots and engaging characters, this Oxford-based detective saga has more than earned its place among Britain's best-loved crime dramas.
More Inspector Lewis- #1 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #170 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #5 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- 8Idris Elba, Ruth Wilson, Dermot Crowley
He may be tormented by his own inner demons but Idris Elba's portrayal of DCI John Luther makes for undeniably compelling viewing. This edge-of-your-seat thriller delves into both the minds of its deeply flawed protagonist and those of the twisted criminals he pursues. Chock full of twists and turns that keep viewers guessing until the very end, it comes as no surprise that fans have been clamouring for more since its debut.
More Luther- #170 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #1 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #141 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 9Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
Blending modern technology with classic detective work, this updated take on Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved sleuth has enraptured audiences since it first graced our screens. With Benedict Cumberbatch stepping into the shoes of the enigmatic Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as his loyal companion Dr. John Watson, viewers have been treated to a fresh yet faithful reimagining of these iconic characters. Filled with intrigue, wit and Holmesian deductive brilliance, this series has truly earned its place among Britain's finest crime dramas.
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- #12 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 10Brenda Blethyn, Jon Morrison, Riley Jones
With the rugged beauty of Northumberland as its backdrop, this crime drama has won fans over with its strong female lead and gripping storylines. Brenda Blethyn's portrayal of DCI Vera Stanhope is nothing short of masterful, as she navigates complex cases with her signature blend of wit and dogged determination. A true testament to the strength and resilience of women in law enforcement, this series is a prime example of British television at its finest.
More Vera- #4 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #375 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
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- 11Martin Clunes, Stephen Wight, Christopher Fulford
Based on the true-life manhunt for serial killer Levi Bellfield, this gripping miniseries had viewers glued to their screens from start to finish. Starring Martin Clunes as determined DCI Colin Sutton, it's no wonder that audiences were enthralled by this chilling tale of justice pursued against all odds. A stark reminder of the grim realities faced by real-life detectives, this series serves as a powerful tribute to their tireless efforts.
More Manhunt- #19 of 42 onThe Best New Limited Series of 2019
- #16 of 75 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #31 of 105 onThe Best British Detective Series
- 12Suranne Jones, Lesley Sharp, Amelia Bullmore
With Suranne Jones and Lesley Sharp at the helm as dynamic detective duo Rachel Bailey and Janet Scott, it's no surprise that this Manchester-based crime drama garnered both critical acclaim and legions of fans. Tackling complex cases whilst dealing with their own personal struggles, these two formidable women have proven that there's more than one way to crack a case. Expertly blending heart-wrenching emotion with nail-biting suspense, this series is undoubtedly a must-watch for fans of the genre.
More Scott & Bailey- #24 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #72 of 114 onThe Best Dramas On HBO Max
- #18 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- 13Michael Kitchen, Anthony Howell, Honeysuckle Weeks
Set against the backdrop of World War II-era England, this crime drama expertly combines historical intrigue with gripping detective work. Michael Kitchen shines as Christopher Foyle, a principled detective chief superintendent who navigates war-torn Britain in pursuit of justice. Unearthing hidden secrets and unmasking traitors within his own ranks, this series has proven to be a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling.
More Foyle's War- #1 of 76 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #7 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #6 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- 14Robson Green, Simone Lahbib, Mark Letheren
With Robson Green at the helm as clinical psychologist Dr. Tony Hill, this thrilling crime drama delved deep into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Teaming up with Hermione Norris' no-nonsense DCI Carol Jordan to track down some truly twisted killers, they proved that two heads are better than one when it comes to solving complex cases. A gripping exploration of human depravity and cunning detective work, this series remains a firm favourite among true crime aficionados.
More Wire in the Blood- #35 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #22 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- #30 of 60 onThe 50+ Best Serial Killer TV Shows, Ranked
- 15Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Laurie, Olivia Colman
A thrilling tale of espionage and betrayal based on John le Carré's novel, this miniseries captivated audiences around the globe. Starring Tom Hiddleston as Jonathan Pine and Hugh Laurie as Richard Roper - an arms dealer whose dealings are far from above board - it's no wonder that viewers were utterly enthralled by this cat-and-mouse game between good and evil. A masterclass in tension-filled storytelling, it stands tall among British crime dramas.
More The Night Manager- #174 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
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- 16Gillian Anderson, Jamie Dornan, Colin Morgan
Delving into the darkest recesses of human nature, this psychological thriller gripped viewers from the outset. With Gillian Anderson's portrayal of tenacious detective Stella Gibson and Jamie Dornan's chilling turn as serial killer Paul Spector, it's no wonder that fans have been left on tenterhooks throughout its run. A haunting exploration of obsession, lust and violence, this crime drama has left an indelible mark on UK television.
More The Fall- #26 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #268 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #207 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- 17Stephen Tompkinson, Andrea Lowe, Caroline Catz
Following in the footsteps of Peter Robinson's best-selling novels, this gritty crime drama brought DCI Alan Banks to life on our screens. Stephen Tompkinson's portrayal of the tenacious detective, with his unyielding drive for justice and unwavering moral compass, has struck a chord with fans of the genre. Tackling gripping cases whilst navigating personal struggles, this series is a prime example of British crime drama at its finest.
More DCI Banks- #14 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #15 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- #2 of 29 onThe Best British TV Shows on HBO Max
- 18Richard Harrington, Mali Harries, Alex Harries
Set in the dramatic landscapes of rural Wales, this brooding crime drama has captivated audiences with its dark and atmospheric storylines. Richard Harrington's compelling portrayal of DCI Tom Mathias, a troubled detective seeking solace in the remote town of Aberystwyth, has struck a chord with fans of the genre. Expertly blending elements of Welsh folklore with nail-biting suspense, this series has carved out a unique place for itself among British crime dramas.
- 19Robson Green, Tessa Peake-Jones, Kacey Ainsworth
In idyllic Cambridgeshire countryside lies the seemingly sleepy village of Grantchester; but beneath its tranquil exterior lies a hotbed of intrigue and murder. James Norton's portrayal of vicar-turned-amateur sleuth Sidney Chambers alongside Robson Green as Detective Inspector Geordie Keating has captivated audiences since it first aired. Blending together pastoral charm with gripping mystery, this series is a quintessentially British delight for fans of all ages.
More Grantchester- #8 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #21 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #16 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- 20Tala Gouveia, Jason Watkins, James Murray
Set in the picturesque city of Bath, this charming crime drama follows the unlikely partnership between street-smart DCI McDonald (Tala Gouveia) and methodical DS Dodds (Jason Watkins). Tackling intriguing cases whilst navigating their differing personalities and backgrounds, this detective duo has struck a chord with viewers who enjoy both classic whodunits and character-driven storytelling.
More McDonald & Dodds- #61 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #23 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
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- 21
Wallander
Kenneth Branagh, Sarah Smart, Tom HiddlestonWith Kenneth Branagh stepping into the shoes of iconic Swedish detective Kurt Wallander, it's no surprise that this adaptation of Henning Mankell's best-selling novels found widespread acclaim among British audiences. Delving into complex cases set against a backdrop of breathtaking Scandinavian landscapes, this series expertly combines gripping storytelling with an introspective exploration of its deeply flawed protagonist.
More Wallander- #16 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #15 of 55 onThe 45+ Best PBS Shows Of All Time, Ranked
- #22 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- 22John Simm, Richie Campbell, Rakie Ayola
Adapted from Peter James' best-selling novels, this Brighton-based crime drama sees John Simm taking up the role of Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. With his unorthodox methods and dogged determination to solve even the most baffling cases, Grace's character has resonated strongly with fans of British detective dramas. Set against a backdrop of picturesque seaside locales and gripping mysteries waiting to be unravelled, this series is undoubtedly worth a watch.
More Grace- #41 of 50 onSlow Burn TV Shows That Are Worth The Wait
- #16 of 99 onThe Best Crime Dramas Of 2024, Ranked
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- 23Emilia Fox, Richard Lintern, David Caves
A long-standing staple in British crime drama television, this forensic pathology-focused show has kept viewers hooked since its debut in 1996. With a revolving cast including Amanda Burton, Emilia Fox and David Caves as dedicated pathologists solving grisly crimes through scientific expertise, it's no wonder that fans have been gripped by its potent mix of mystery and cutting-edge science.
More Silent Witness- Dig Deeper...The Best Silent Witness Episodes
- #17 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #203 of 204 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- 24Anna Friel, Ray Panthaki, Nicholas Pinnock
With Anna Friel in the titular role as former detective Marcella Backland, this intense crime drama delves into the murky world of police corruption and personal torment. Struggling with memory lapses and fractured relationships whilst doggedly pursuing justice for her cases, Marcella's journey is equal parts thrilling and heart-wrenching. A masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, this series has left fans eager for more.
More Marcella- #52 of 105 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #20 of 46 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- #19 of 91 onThe 80+ Best Current Crime TV Shows
- 25Anna Maxwell Martin, Rachael Stirling, Sophie Rundle
Set during the post-World War II era when women were fighting for recognition and respect in male-dominated fields, this captivating crime drama follows four former Bletchley Park codebreakers as they use their wits to solve complex cases. Starring Anna Maxwell Martin and Rachael Stirling, this series expertly blends historical intrigue with the struggles faced by women in a rapidly changing world.
More The Bletchley Circle- #19 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #14 of 49 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- #11 of 80 on80+ Movies And Shows With Circle In The Title
- 26Nicola Walker, Jamie Sives, Katie Leung
Stepping into the role of unconventional marine detective DI Annika Strandhed, Nicola Walker brings her signature wit and tenacity to this refreshing crime drama set against stunning Scottish landscapes. As Annika leads her team in solving baffling maritime mysteries, viewers are treated to an engaging blend of humour and suspense that sets this series apart from its counterparts.
More Annika- #249 of 685 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #25 of 55 onThe 45+ Best PBS Shows Of All Time, Ranked
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- 27Tchéky Karyo, David Morrissey, Keeley Hawes
A heart-wrenching tale revolving around missing children and desperate parents searching for answers, this gripping drama had audiences on tenterhooks throughout its run. With an ensemble cast including James Nesbitt and Frances O'Connor delivering powerful performances as grieving parents thrown into a nightmare scenario, it's no surprise that viewers were kept guessing until the very end. A haunting exploration of loss, hope and obsession, this series stands tall among UK television offerings.
More The Missing- #87 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
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- 28Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
Brimming with grit and swagger, this period crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham has captured the imaginations of viewers worldwide. Cillian Murphy's portrayal of Tommy Shelby, leader of the notorious Peaky Blinders gang, has made him an iconic figure among fans of the genre. With its stylish cinematography, stellar cast and captivating storylines that blend fact with fiction, it's no wonder that this series has become a global sensation.
More Peaky Blinders- #4 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
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- 29Katherine Kelly, Lee Ingleby, Nicholas Pinnock
Taking an innovative approach to crime dramas by adopting an anthology format, each episode of this series focuses on a different crime and follows the intense interrogations that take place within the confines of a police interview room. With stellar guest performances from renowned actors such as David Tennant and Kit Harington, it's no wonder that audiences have been captivated by the psychological warfare and unexpected revelations on display.
More Criminal: UK- #47 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #59 of 1,054 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #62 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- 30Jason O'Mara, Harvey Keitel, Michael Imperioli
A truly unique blend of 1970s nostalgia and science fiction, this time-travelling crime drama sees John Simm in the role of modern-day detective Sam Tyler, who finds himself inexplicably transported back to 1973 after a car accident. Teaming up with Philip Glenister's brash DCI Gene Hunt to solve crimes whilst attempting to unravel his own bizarre predicament, this series expertly combines humour, intrigue and existential questioning to create a truly unforgettable viewing experience.
