The 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- Michael Kitchen, Anthony Howell, Honeysuckle Weeks
Foyle's War: A masterful blend of history and fiction, Foyle's War enthrals viewers as the talented detective Christopher Foyle unravels mysteries against the backdrop of World War II. Spearheaded by the remarkable performances of Michael Kitchen and Honeysuckle Weeks, the captivating storylines delve into the complex web of wartime politics, leaving viewers completely hooked.
More Foyle's War- #7 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #13 of 133 onThe Very Best British Crime Dramas
- #6 of 48 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- Neil Dudgeon, Nick Hendrix, Fiona Dolman
Midsomer Murders: Painting bucolic English landscapes in a sinister light, Midsomer Murders regales its audience with devious whodunits set amongst eccentric English inhabitants. DCI Tom Barnaby, played by the versatile John Nettles, and his team leave no stone unturned in their pursuit to uncover the murderers lurking in seemingly picturesque villages.
More Midsomer Murders- #205 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #9 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #11 of 48 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- Brenda Blethyn, Jon Morrison, Riley Jones
Vera: Cold cases and dark secrets abound in this British crime drama, where the sombre Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope, superbly portrayed by Brenda Blethyn, uncovers hidden truths beneath the surface. Set against the hauntingly bleak Northumberland landscapes, Vera never ceases to enthral and delight with her unwavering determination and unconventional methods.
More Vera- #4 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #258 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #331 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 4
The Brokenwood Mysteries
Neill Rea, Fern Sutherland, Nic SampsonThe Brokenwood Mysteries: Set in an idyllic small New Zealand town, The Brokenwood Mysteries encapsulates the essence of quintessential cozy mysteries. With a dash of dark humour and an unlikely crime-solving duo of Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd (Neill Rea) and Detective Kristin Sims (Fern Sutherland), the show's offbeat charm keeps fans clamouring for more.
More The Brokenwood Mysteries- #25 of 155 onThe 130+ Best Current Crime Drama and Police Shows
- #92 of 309 onEvery Major Crime TV Show, Ranked By Fans
- #49 of 156 onThe 120+ Best Detective Shows of All Time
- Martin Shaw, Lee Ingleby, Melanie Clark Pullen
Inspector George Gently: A gripping portrayal of 1960s Britain, Inspector George Gently delves into the nuances of an ever-evolving society, complete with its criminal underbelly. Martin Shaw’s uncanny ability to bring the stoic, yet endearing, Inspector Gently to life, along with Lee Ingleby as the uncertain Detective Sergeant Bacchus, guarantees a thrilling ride.
More Inspector George Gently- #13 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #85 of 227 onThe 160 Best Mystery TV Shows Of All Time
- #17 of 30 onWhat To Watch If You Love 'Endeavour'
- Guy Pearce, Marta Dusseldorp, Aaron Pedersen
Jack Irish: Brooding and enigmatic, Jack Irish brings a charmingly gritty vibe to the world of crime-solving. Guy Pearce's dazzling portrayal of the eponymous character, a former lawyer turned private eye, sends sparks flying as he navigates the vibrant yet dangerous underbelly of Melbourne's criminal world.
- David Suchet, Hugh Fraser, Philip Jackson
Agatha Christie's Poirot: David Suchet's definitive portrayal of the famous Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, remains unmatched, weaving genuine intrigue and engrossing storylines. Agatha Christie's Poirot superbly recreates the grandiose settings of her novels, enchanting viewers with spellbinding performances and mysteries that stand the test of time.
More Agatha Christie's Poirot- #127 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #10 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #8 of 48 onThe Very Best British Procedurals, Ranked
- Bertie Carvel
Dalgliesh is a captivating British crime drama series that brings PD James' enigmatic detective-poet, Adam Dalgliesh, to life with Bertie Carvel in the lead role. Set in mid-1970s England, the show follows the recently widowed Detective Chief Inspector as he uses his remarkable empathy and insight to delve into the darkest corners of the human psyche while solving intricate criminal cases.
More Dalgliesh- #573 of 684 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #807 of 1,053 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #170 of 207 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- Martin Clunes, Stephen Wight, Christopher Fulford
Manhunt: A gritty, real-life manhunt for the deadliest serial killers, Manhunt keeps fans on the edge of their seats, thanks to the incredible acting chops of Martin Clunes as DCI Sutton. The enthralling narratives derive their potency from gruesome true stories, underscored by the relentless pursuit of justice.
More Manhunt- #19 of 42 onThe Best New Limited Series of 2019
- #31 of 105 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #17 of 21 onThe Best New Streaming Acquired Shows Of 2019
- 10
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries
Essie Davis, Nathan Page, Hugo Johnstone-BurtMiss Fisher's Murder Mysteries: The roaring 20s come alive as the glamorous and daring Miss Phryne Fisher, played by Essie Davis, stylishly solves crimes amidst decadent settings. Combining sumptuous costumes and settings, witty dialogue, and intriguing plots, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries has become a true cult classic.
- #17 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- #69 of 219 onThe Best TV Series Based on Books
- #59 of 184 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- Cecilia Appiah, Adrian Scarborough, Sonita Henry
The Chelsea Detective: Set against the vibrant and upscale backdrop of Chelsea, The Chelsea Detective follows the brilliant yet unconventional Detective Inspector Max Arnold as he delves into the seemingly perfect world of this affluent area, only to uncover its hidden dark side. The gap between appearance and reality is brilliantly exposed with exciting twists and turns.
- 12
Keeping Faith
Eve Myles, Mark Lewis Jones, Hannah DanielKeeping Faith: Intense and character-driven, Keeping Faith captures the gripping journey of a small-town lawyer, Faith Howells, portrayed by the vivacious Eve Myles. Faced with her husband's sudden disappearance, Faith grapples with uncovering hidden truths while keeping her own secrets safely locked away. The emotional rollercoaster never fails to captivate.
- 13
London Kills
Hugo Speer, Sharon Small, Bailey PatrickLondon Kills: A fast-paced, murky police drama, London Kills pulls viewers into the chaos of London's murder squad. Led by the enigmatic Detective Inspector David Bradford, played by Hugo Speer, the team navigates the capital's dark secrets while grappling with the internal demons that forever threaten to consume them.
- Elaine Cassidy, Saira Choudhry, Julie Clerehugh
No Offence: Bold, brash, and unapologetic, No Offence offers a fresh approach to the police procedural drama. Joanna Scanlan's thrilling performance as DI Vivienne Deering anchors a diverse and talented cast who tackle unconventional cases with unrelenting determination and wry humour.
- Laura Fraser, Siobhan Finneran, William Ash
The Loch: The serene beauty of Loch Ness serves as a striking contrast to the sinister happenings in The Loch. Laura Fraser shines as Annie Redford, a local detective striving to protect her close-knit community from lurking evil. Layered with suspense and intrigue, it keeps audiences entranced.
- Caroline Gillmer, Greta Scacchi, Bowie Walton
Darby & Joan: Oozing charm and warmth, Darby & Joan offers an endearing slice of life, as two lifelong friends navigate the ups and downs of later life together. Their on-screen banter and timeless friendship ensure that you won't want to miss a single moment of this feel-good series.
More Darby & Joan- #48 of 180 onThe 150+ Best New Mystery TV Shows
- #114 of 156 onThe 120+ Best Detective Shows of All Time
- #146 of 227 onThe 160 Best Mystery TV Shows Of All Time
- Maria Doyle Kennedy, Kylie Fisher, Tony Kgoroge
Recipes for Love and Murder: A sumptuous feast for the senses, Recipes for Love and Murder showcases Tannie Maria, a lovable food-loving amateur sleuth. Set amidst mouthwatering culinary delights, this recipe of love, passion, and crime keeps viewers captivated with a side of delicious food.
- #385 of 684 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #473 of 1,053 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #427 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Marta Dusseldorp, Damian Walshe-Howling, Hamish Michael
Janet King: A legal drama packed with grit and intensity, Janet King revolves around the fierce, eponymous protagonist, played by the exceptional Marta Dusseldorp. The series delves into the world of prosecutors, advisors, and adversaries, sharing their personal challenges and the determination that carries them forward.
- Sally Lindsay, Steve Edge, Sue Vincent
The Madame Blanc Mysteries: Intriguing, colourful characters and an insatiable curiosity for solving mysteries make The Madame Blanc Mysteries an irresistible watch. With a flair for suspense and the supernatural, this series promises a visual feast of antiques, fateful encounters, and the search for darker truths.
- #404 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #69 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #90 of 133 onThe Very Best British Crime Dramas
- Kerry Godliman, Howard Charles, Sophia Del Pizzo
Whitstable Pearl: Against a picturesque coastal backdrop, Whitstable Pearl immerses audiences in the tantalizing world of murder and seafood. Kerry Godliman's performance as oyster-bar owner-turned-detective Pearl Nolan drives the appeal, as she navigates the challenges of her double life.
More Whitstable Pearl- #580 of 1,053 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #53 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #60 of 180 onThe 150+ Best New Mystery TV Shows
- 21
My Life Is Murder
Lucy Lawless, Ebony Vagulans, Alex AndreasMy Life Is Murder: Injecting sass and panache into detective drama, My Life Is Murder stars the magnetic Lucy Lawless as a fearless private investigator unmasking Melbourne's criminal underbelly. Frothy, fun, and irresistible, the show offers an ample serving of wit and whodunit.
- 22
Mystery Road
Aaron Pedersen, Judy Davis, Deborah MailmanMystery Road: Atmospheric drama, beautiful landscapes, and riveting storytelling combine in Mystery Road, transporting viewers to the starkly stunning Australian outback. Aaron Pedersen stars as indigenous detective Jay Swan, unearthing long-buried secrets as he confronts the clash between ancient traditions and modern society.
- Yannick Bisson, Helene Joy, Jonny Harris
Murdoch Mysteries: Delving into Toronto's dark past, Murdoch Mysteries sees Yannick Bisson's Detective William Murdoch cracking cases through scientific sleuthing. A blend of period charm and sharp wit, the show allows fans to indulge in both mystery and history.
More Murdoch Mysteries- Dig Deeper...The Best Murdoch Mysteries Episodes
- #189 of 207 onThe 150+ Most Popular Shows Right Now
- #38 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- 24
Agatha Raisin
Ashley Jensen, Mathew Horne, Katy WixAgatha Raisin: A delightful whodunit with wry British humour that has endeared it to viewers, Agatha Raisin stars Ashley Jensen as a vivacious PR guru turned amateur detective. Set in the quaint Cotswold village, the show boasts a colourful cast of characters and irresistible charm.
More Agatha Raisin- #32 of 55 onThe 50+ Best Shows To Watch With Your Parents
- #65 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #36 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- Mackenzie Crook, Toby Jones, Rachael Stirling
Detectorists: A gentle comedy steeped in heart and humour, Detectorists follows two lovable losers—endearingly played by Mackenzie Crook and Toby Jones—as they pursue their hobby of metal detecting. This charming series offers a slow-burn pleasure, with characters that have audiences rooting for their small victories.
- Hugo Speer, Sharon Small, Bailey Patrick
London Kills: A fast-paced, murky police drama, London Kills pulls viewers into the chaos of London's murder squad. Led by the enigmatic Detective Inspector David Bradford, played by Hugo Speer, the team navigates the capital's dark secrets while grappling with the internal demons that forever threaten to consume them.
More London Kills- #48 of 253 onThe 250+ Best BBC One Shows, Ranked
- #436 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #46 of 133 onThe Very Best British Crime Dramas
- 27
Striking Out
Amy Huberman, Rory Keenan, Emmet ByrneStriking Out: A captivating legal drama, Striking Out follows the fierce and independent solicitor Tara Rafferty, brought to life by the inimitable Amy Huberman. Set in Dublin, the series touches on personal and professional struggles, triumphant courtroom battles, and entangled relationships, ensuring an engrossing watch.
- 28
800 Words
Erik Thomson, Melina Vidler, Benson Jack Anthony800 Words: A heart-warming tale of starting anew, 800 Words sees Erik Thomson as a recently widowed columnist moving with his family from Sydney to the seemingly quiet New Zealand coastal town of Weld. The show blends warmth, humour, and family dynamics seamlessly, with a faint pang of mystery lurking beneath the idyllic surface.
- Emilia Fox, Tara Fitzgerald, Giovanni Cirfiera
Signora Volpe: A thrilling, stylish, and enigmatic show, Signora Volpe features a globe-trotting art detective who solves challenging mysteries while entangled in a web of deception and intrigue. The cat-and-mouse game is full of tension and intrigue, keeping viewers entranced with every twist and turn.
More Signora Volpe- #392 of 1,053 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #76 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #72 of 133 onThe Very Best British Crime Dramas
- Olivia Vinall, Julie Graham, Sarah Woodward
Queens of Mystery: A buoyant tribute to female crime-fighters, Queens of Mystery features a fabulous trio of crime-writing aunts aiding their niece—a police detective—in solving murder cases. The glorious mix of whimsy and wry humour is as refreshing as it is beguiling.