The 50+ Best British Rom-Coms, Ranked
Photo: Universal Pictures/About Time, Gramercy Pictures/Four Weddings and a Funeral

The 50+ Best British Rom-Coms, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 1, 2024 115.3K views 51 items
Ranked By
9.4K votes
2.2K voters

The charm of British romantic comedies can't be denied - their witty dialogue, quirky characters, and endearing plot twists keep fans coming back for more. Our crowd-ranked list of top British romcoms has been carefully curated based on votes from avid fans and critics. The movies ranked here have been chosen for their blend of romance, humor, and quintessentially British style, making each one a delightful watch in its own right.

Funny British romantic films like Four Weddings and a Funeral broke the mould with its humorous take on love, while Love Actually weaved multiple love stories into a single enchanting narrative. Notting Hill captured hearts globally, showing a love affair between a local bookshop owner and a famous movie star. Bridget Jones' Diary, on the other hand, painted an often-too-relatable picture of a woman's journey to love and self-acceptance. Starring Gwyneth Paltrow, the cerebral Sliding Doors played with the butterfly effect concept to show two potential love stories of the same woman. Then there's About Time, a light-hearted romantic comedy that added the charm of time travel to its narrated love story. Despite belonging to the same genre, these films all have a unique appeal that differentiates them, making them worthy of consideration on this list.

Did your favorite British romcoms make it on the list? Are you ready to discover some hidden gems you might have missed? Take a look, enjoy the films, and cast your vote. In the end, whether you're a fan of the classic English humor, the UK settings, or the heartwarming love stories, this list of British romantic comedies is sure to cater to your needs. Join us in celebrating the very best of this delightful genre.

Most divisive: I Give It a Year
Over 2.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 50+ Best British Rom-Coms, Ranked
  • Bridget Jones's Diary
    1
    Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant
    515 votes

    Bridget Jones's Diary is a true gem in the realm of British romantic comedies, thanks to its relatable protagonist, clever wit, and lovable characters. Through Bridget's hilarious inner monologues and wonderfully candid diary entries, we follow her journey of self-discovery and love, which is perfectly sprinkled with British charm. With Renée Zellweger brilliantly embodying the endearing quirks of this iconic character, and Colin Firth and Hugh Grant bringing their quintessential British leading-man prowess, this adaptation of Helen Fielding's beloved novel effortlessly captures the essence of modern romance in the United Kingdom.

  • Notting Hill
    2
    Julia Roberts, Hugh Grant, Hugh Bonneville
    555 votes

    Notting Hill masterfully blends the charm of British wit with the delightful humor of romantic comedies. Set in one of London's most picturesque neighborhoods, the film introduces us to a dashing yet humble bookshop owner, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with a glamorous American movie star. The engaging dialogue and quintessentially British humor, combined with the irresistible chemistry between Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, make Notting Hill a timeless favorite that showcases the magic of love amidst the quirky backdrop of urban London.

  • About Time
    3
    Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy
    591 votes

    About Time artfully combines the magic of time-travel with the enchanting complexities of love in a poignant and effortlessly charming fashion. Set against the breathtaking scenery of Cornwall, this delightful film follows the life of a young man who discovers that he has the ability to travel through time and change the course of his own love story. Directed by Richard Curtis, About Time uses this fantastical premise to explore themes of self-discovery, growth, and the delicate balance between fate and choice, all wrapped up in a beautifully British package that is both heartwarming and whimsical.

  • Four Weddings and a Funeral
    4
    Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell, Kristin Scott Thomas
    403 votes

    Four Weddings and a Funeral proves that love can be messy, chaotic, and utterly delightful in equal measure. With a razor-sharp screenplay and Richard Curtis' deft direction, this brilliant ensemble piece showcases the exploits of a tight-knit group of friends as they navigate the trials and tribulations of relationships, commitment, and marriage. Set against the picturesque landscape of rural England and punctuated by unforgettable scenes of laughter and poignancy, this film expertly balances humor and heartache to deliver a timeless tale of romance that has become a cornerstone of British cinema.

  • Love Actually
    5
    Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Colin Firth
    652 votes

    Love Actually stands out as an extraordinary example of British romantic comedy, weaving together multiple compelling love stories with an all-star ensemble cast. The film's intertwined narratives, each filled with humor and heartache, beautifully demonstrate the many facets of love amid the hustle and bustle of London during the festive season. Enriched with stellar performances, a witty script, and Richard Curtis' brilliant direction, Love Actually has become a classic holiday rom-com that truly captures the quintessential charm and poignant beauty of British storytelling.

  • The Holiday
    6
    Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law
    155 votes

    The Holiday is a delightful blend of American and British sensibilities, offering a fresh perspective on the romantic comedy genre. This heartwarming tale of two women who swap homes for the holiday season allows both cultures to shine through in their respective storylines, showcasing the undeniable charm of the English countryside alongside the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. With an enchanting script peppered with wit, humor, and memorable moments, The Holiday is a timeless exploration of love's transformative power that transcends geographical boundaries.

  • Pride & Prejudice
    7
    Keira Knightley, Matthew McFadyen, Brenda Blethyn
    365 votes

    Pride & Prejudice is a masterful adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, skillfully blending British wit, period drama, and a captivating romance that has captivated generations of readers. The film boasts a superb ensemble cast, punctuated by sparkling performances from Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, who bring Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy to life with undeniable chemistry and skill. Directed by Joe Wright, Pride & Prejudice expertly captures the essence of 19th-century England while delivering a timeless love story that remains a beloved staple of British romantic comedies.

  • Love, Rosie
    8
    Lily Collins, Sam Claflin, Christian Cooke
    276 votes

    Love, Rosie is a delightful British romantic comedy that follows the ups and downs of two childhood friends as they navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and fate over the years. With captivating performances from Lily Collins and Sam Claflin, the film beautifully showcases the humorous and heartfelt moments of their enduring bond. Directed by Christian Ditter, Love, Rosie features a clever script, picturesque locations, and an unmistakable British charm, making it a tender and enchanting exploration of love in all its forms.

  • About a Boy
    9
    Hugh Grant, Rachel Weisz, Toni Collette
    254 votes

    About a Boy skillfully combines British humor and heart to create a deeply moving and endearing exploration of love, family, and friendship. Hugh Grant delivers a nuanced performance as a selfish bachelor whose life is transformed when he forms an unlikely bond with a quirky young boy. Directed by brothers Chris and Paul Weitz, this charming adaptation of Nick Hornby's novel deftly balances humor and poignancy, showcasing the transformative power of human connection and the unique blend of wit and warmth that characterizes the best of British romantic comedies.

  • Man Up
    10
    Lake Bell, Simon Pegg, Dean-Charles Chapman
    319 votes

    Man Up is a refreshingly modern British romantic comedy that seamlessly intertwines humor, romance, and self-discovery. Starring Lake Bell and Simon Pegg, the film centers around a chance encounter between two strangers that leads to an unexpected night full of adventure, laughter, and chemistry. Directed by Ben Palmer and with a witty script from Tess Morris, Man Up stands out for its authentic exploration of the unpredictable world of dating and the joy of spontaneous connection, all wrapped up in a distinctly British package.

  • Bend It Like Beckham
    11
    Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Anupam Kher
    230 votes

    Bend It like Beckham is a groundbreaking British romantic comedy that brings together the worlds of football, culture clashes, and teenage love. The film, directed by Gurinder Chadha, tells the story of an Indian girl living in London who dreams of playing soccer, while also navigating her love life and cultural expectations. With its vibrant portrayal of British multiculturalism, humorous yet heartfelt narrative, and bold approach to challenging stereotypes, Bend It like Beckham has become a celebrated classic in the realm of British romantic comedies.

  • Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason
    12
    Renée Zellweger, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth
    227 votes

    Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason continues the delightful journey of our endearing heroine in this charming sequel that combines the best of British humor with a captivating romantic storyline. Renée Zellweger returns as the lovable Bridget, whose life becomes even more complicated as she navigates her evolving relationship with the dashing Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) while battling old flames and new challenges. Directed by Beeban Kidron, this enchanting film expands upon the original's winning formula, offering a perfect blend of laughter and sentimentality that reminds audiences why Bridget Jones is a beloved icon of British cinema.

  • Me Before You
    13
    Emilia Clarke, Sam Claflin, Jenna Coleman
    144 votes

    Me Before You is an emotionally charged British romantic comedy-drama that showcases the transformative power of love in the face of adversity. Based on Jojo Moyes' best-selling novel and starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, the film beautifully captures the blossoming romance between a young woman and the paralyzed man she's hired to care for. Directed by Thea Sharrock, Me Before You balances heartrending moments with lighthearted humor, crafting a compelling and bittersweet tale of love that resonates deeply with audiences.

  • Shaun of the Dead
    14
    Simon Pegg, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis
    161 votes

    Shaun of the Dead brilliantly combines British humor, romantic elements, and the zombie genre into a truly unique and entertaining film. Directed by Edgar Wright and starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, this clever satire follows the story of Shaun, a man trying to win back his ex-girlfriend while also trying to survive a zombie apocalypse. Through its witty script, engaging performances, and masterful blend of genres, Shaun of the Dead offers viewers a refreshingly original take on the romantic comedy that sets it apart from the rest.

  • One Day
    15
    Anne Hathaway, Jim Sturgess, Patricia Clarkson
    187 votes

    One Day is a captivating British romantic comedy-drama that explores the evolving relationship between two friends over the course of twenty years, as they navigate the challenges of life, love, and self-discovery. Directed by Lone Scherfig and based on David Nicholls' acclaimed novel, the film features standout performances from Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, whose undeniable chemistry brings their characters' complex emotional journey to life. With its engaging narrative structure and heartfelt exploration of love's many forms, One Day is a poignant and mesmerizing entry in the British romantic comedy canon.

  • Much Ado About Nothing
    16
    Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson, Denzel Washington
    109 votes

    Much Ado About Nothing is a delightful adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy, skillfully blending wit, romance, and the Bard's timeless language into a thoroughly entertaining cinematic experience. Directed by Kenneth Branagh and featuring a stellar ensemble cast, the film is set in the picturesque Italian countryside, providing a visually stunning backdrop for the tale of love, betrayal, and redemption. With its engaging performances, sharp dialogue, and expertly crafted narrative, Much Ado About Nothing is a perfect example of the enduring appeal of British romantic comedies, both on stage and screen.

  • Emma.
    17
    Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Bill Nighy
    84 votes

    Emma. is a delightful adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel, showcasing the wit, charm, and elegance of British romantic comedies set in the Regency era. Directed by Autumn de Wilde and starring Anya Taylor-Joy as the titular character, this film captures the trials and tribulations of a young woman determined to play matchmaker while navigating her own romantic journey. With its exquisite costumes, picturesque locations, and outstanding cast, Emma. is a visually stunning and thoroughly enjoyable addition to the canon of British period romantic comedies.

  • Yesterday
    18
    Himesh Patel, Lily James, Kate McKinnon
    65 votes

    Yesterday is a heartwarming British romantic comedy that imagines a world where only one man remembers the Beatles, allowing him to become a musical sensation while grappling with love, fame, and the price of success. Directed by Danny Boyle and written by Richard Curtis, the film boasts a talented cast, including Himesh Patel and Lily James, and a touching exploration of love, friendship, and the transformative power of music. Yesterday's clever premise, outstanding soundtrack, and undeniable British charm make it an unmissable addition to the pantheon of great British romantic comedies.

  • The Young Victoria
    19
    Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany
    106 votes

    The Young Victoria is a sumptuous period drama that beautifully captures the early years of Queen Victoria's reign, as well as her passionate romance with Prince Albert. Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée and starring Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend in the lead roles, the film offers an intimate portrait of a young woman learning to navigate the intricacies of rule, love, and sacrifice, all set against the stunning backdrop of 19th-century England. With its superb performances, lush visuals, and evocative storytelling, The Young Victoria is a captivating exploration of love and power in a bygone era.

  • Juliet, Naked
    20

    Juliet, Naked

    Ethan Hawke, Rose Byrne, Chris O'Dowd
    69 votes

    Juliet, Naked is a charming British romantic comedy based on the novel by Nick Hornby, deftly blending music, love, and self-discovery into a heartwarming and humorous story. Starring Rose Byrne, Ethan Hawke, and Chris O'Dowd, the film follows a woman caught between her long-term boyfriend's obsession with an obscure musician and an unexpected connection with the musician himself. With its witty script, engaging performances, and distinctly British sensibilities, Juliet, Naked is a delightful exploration of love, life, and the passion that drives us.

  • The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain
    21
    Hugh Grant, Tara Fitzgerald, Colm Meaney
    95 votes

    The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain is a quirky and charming British romantic comedy that blends historical events, cultural quirks, and an enchanting love story. Set in 1917 Wales and starring Hugh Grant and Tara Fitzgerald, the film tells the tale of an English cartographer tasked with re-measuring a village's "mountain," which sparks a battle of wits and an unexpected romance. Directed by Christopher Monger, this delightful film is rich with humor and heart, offering audiences a refreshing dose of British charm and whimsy.

  • The Importance of Being Ernest
    22
    Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, Frances O'Connor
    84 votes

    The Importance of Being Earnest is a playful and sophisticated adaptation of Oscar Wilde's famous comedy, expertly showcasing the wit and charm of British humor and romantic storytelling. Directed by Oliver Parker and featuring a superb ensemble cast, including Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, and Reese Witherspoon, the film brings to life the delightful tale of mistaken identities, love, and deception in Victorian England. With its sparkling dialogue, lavish settings, and engaging performances, The Importance of Being Earnest is an enduring classic and a testament to the timeless appeal of British romantic comedies.

  • Shakespeare in Love
    23
    Joseph Fiennes, Gwyneth Paltrow, Geoffrey Rush
    153 votes

    Shakespeare in Love is a delightful and enchanting romantic comedy that imagines the story behind the creation of one of history's greatest love stories, Romeo and Juliet. Directed by John Madden and featuring a stellar ensemble cast led by Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes, the film offers a whimsical and heartfelt exploration of love, passion, and the creative process, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Elizabethan England. With its superb performances, witty script, and rich historical detail, Shakespeare in Love is an unforgettable ode to the magic of love and the enduring appeal of British romantic comedies.

  • Chalet Girl
    24
    Felicity Jones, Ed Westwick, Sophia Bush
    68 votes

    Chalet Girl is a delightful British romantic comedy that combines the world of competitive snowboarding with the ups and downs of young love. Starring Felicity Jones and Ed Westwick, the film centers on a former champion snowboarder who takes a job at an upscale ski resort and finds herself falling for her wealthy employer's son. Directed by Phil Traill, Chalet Girl is a lighthearted and entertaining entry into the British romantic comedy genre, showcasing the charm, humor, and heart that can be found in such films.

  • Sliding Doors
    25
    Gwyneth Paltrow, John Hannah, John Lynch
    125 votes

    Sliding Doors is an inventive and thought-provoking British romantic comedy that explores the idea of parallel universes and the role of fate in our lives. Directed by Peter Howitt and starring Gwyneth Paltrow, the film follows the two possible paths of a woman's life, depending on whether or not she catches a particular train. The clever narrative structure, sharply written dialogue, and captivating performances from the cast make Sliding Doors a unique and memorable addition to the world of British romantic comedies.

  • Starter for 10
    26
    James McAvoy, Alice Eve, Rebecca Hall
    77 votes

    Starter for 10 is a charming coming-of-age British romantic comedy set against the backdrop of 1980s university life. Starring James McAvoy, Alice Eve, and Rebecca Hall, the film follows the journey of a working-class student as he navigates love, friendship, and the pressure of competing on a popular quiz show. Directed by Tom Vaughan, Starter for 10 captures the spirit of the era while showcasing the clever humor and relatable characters that make British romantic comedies so endearing.

  • Imagine Me & You
    27
    Piper Perabo, Lena Headey, Matthew Goode
    90 votes

    Imagine Me & You is a refreshingly modern British romantic comedy that tackles themes of love, identity, and self-discovery with humor and heart. Starring Piper Perabo, Lena Headey, and Matthew Goode, the film centers around a young woman who unexpectedly falls in love with another woman shortly after marrying her longtime boyfriend. Directed by Ol Parker, Imagine Me & You offers a sincere and relatable portrayal of love in all its forms, showcasing the unique blend of wit and warmth that characterizes the best British romantic comedies.

  • Emma
    28
    Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeremy Northam, Toni Collette
    109 votes

    Emma is a delightful adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, capturing the wit, charm, and elegance of British romantic comedies set in the Regency era. Directed by Douglas McGrath and starring Gwyneth Paltrow as the titular character, this film showcases the trials and tribulations of a young woman determined to play matchmaker while navigating her own romantic journey. With its exquisite costumes, picturesque locations, and outstanding cast, Emma is a visually stunning and thoroughly enjoyable addition to the canon of British period romantic comedies.

  • Together
    29

    Together

    James McAvoy, Sharon Horgan, Samuel Logan
    85 votes

    Together is an engaging and heartwarming British romantic comedy that explores love and commitment in the modern era. Starring James McAvoy and Sharon Horgan, the film centers around a couple navigating the challenges of co-parenting and their own relationship during a global pandemic. Directed by Stephen Daldry, Together offers a poignant and timely look at love in the face of adversity, highlighting the humor and humanity that are hallmarks of British romantic comedies.

  • Rye Lane
    30
    David Jonsson, Vivian Oparah, Charlie Knight
    18 votes

    Rye Lane is a heartwarming British romantic comedy that captures the essence of London's vibrant and diverse community, centered on the story of a woman finding love in an unexpected place. The film seamlessly weaves together humor, culture, and romance, showcasing the undeniable charm of the city and its inhabitants. Directed by Remy Bazerque, Rye Lane is both visually stunning and narratively engaging, offering a fresh and authentic perspective on love and relationships in the bustling metropolis that is London.