10 British Crime Dramas to Get You Through a Rainy Day

Rainy days call for cozy blankets, a warm drink, and a gripping show to keep us glued to the screen. British crime dramas, with their moody settings and twisty plots, are the perfect match for a dreary day indoors.

We’ve handpicked 10 stellar British crime dramas that deliver suspense, strong characters, and stories that stick with you. From gritty police procedurals to chilling true-crime tales, these shows span decades and streaming platforms, ensuring there’s something for everyone to dive into.

10. ‘The Fall’ (2013-2016)

This Belfast-set thriller pits Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, played by Gillian Anderson, against serial killer Paul Spector, portrayed by Jamie Dornan. The cat-and-mouse chase unfolds across three tense seasons, blending psychological depth with raw suspense.

The show’s dark tone and Belfast’s gloomy backdrop make it a perfect rainy-day watch. Anderson’s steely performance and Dornan’s unsettling charm create a gripping dynamic that keeps you hooked.

9. ‘Broadchurch’ (2013-2017)

Set in a small Dorset coastal town, ‘Broadchurch’ follows detectives Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) as they investigate a child’s murder. Each season tackles a new case, weaving personal drama with community fallout.

The show’s emotional weight and stunning Jurassic Coast visuals pair well with a stormy day. Tennant and Colman’s chemistry, alongside a stellar cast like Jodie Whittaker, makes this a must-watch.

8. ‘Happy Valley’ (2014-2023)

Sarah Lancashire stars as Catherine Cawood, a tough Yorkshire police sergeant facing personal and professional challenges. This three-season series blends gritty crime with deep family drama, centered around a haunting kidnapping case.

Lancashire’s powerhouse performance and the show’s raw depiction of rural life make it ideal for a cozy binge. The bleak Yorkshire moors add a moody vibe perfect for rainy afternoons.

7. ‘Line of Duty’ (2012-2021)

This intense series follows AC-12, an anti-corruption unit led by Ted Hastings (Adrian Dunbar), Kate Fleming (Vicky McClure), and Steve Arnott (Martin Compston). Each season dives into a new case of police corruption, packed with twists.

The fast-paced interrogations and moral dilemmas keep you on edge, making it great for a rainy day. The stellar ensemble cast and sharp writing ensure every episode hits hard.

6. ‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013-2022)

Cillian Murphy leads as Tommy Shelby, head of a Birmingham gang in post-World War I England. This six-season saga tracks the Shelby family’s rise through crime, politics, and betrayal, with a film on the way.

The show’s stylish visuals and gritty storytelling make it a rainy-day gem. Murphy’s magnetic performance, alongside actors like Paul Anderson and Sophie Rundle, keeps the tension high.

5. ‘Sherlock’ (2010-2017)

Benedict Cumberbatch stars as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes, with Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. This four-season series reimagines classic mysteries in contemporary London, blending wit and suspense.

The clever writing and dynamic duo make it perfect for a stormy day binge. Cumberbatch’s sharp delivery and Freeman’s grounded charm create a fresh take on a timeless detective.

4. ‘Luther’ (2010-2019)

Idris Elba shines as DCI John Luther, a brilliant but troubled detective tackling London’s darkest crimes across five seasons. His unconventional methods and personal struggles drive the intense narrative.

The show’s brooding atmosphere and Elba’s commanding presence make it a rainy-day must. The mix of psychological depth and shocking cases keeps you glued to the screen.

3. ‘Vera’ (2011-present)

Brenda Blethyn stars as DCI Vera Stanhope, solving murders in the rugged Northumberland landscape. Now in its 13th season, this series blends cozy mystery with gritty crime, anchored by Vera’s sharp instincts.

The sweeping Northeast England scenery and Blethyn’s warm yet tough performance make it ideal for a rainy day. Each case feels personal, drawing you into Vera’s world.

2. ‘Unforgotten’ (2015-present)

This series follows DCI Cassie Stuart and DI Sunny Khan as they solve cold cases, uncovering buried secrets. Each season, starring Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar, explores the emotional impact of past crimes.

The thoughtful pacing and deep character work make it perfect for a quiet, rainy day. The show’s focus on human stories behind the crimes adds a heartfelt layer.

1. ‘Endeavour’ (2012-2023)

A prequel to ‘Inspector Morse,’ this series follows young Endeavour Morse (Shaun Evans) in 1960s Oxford. Across nine seasons, it blends classic detective work with rich character development and period charm.

The nostalgic setting and Evans’ nuanced performance make it a top pick for a rainy day. The intricate mysteries and Oxford’s dreamy backdrop keep you captivated.

Which British crime drama is your go-to for a rainy day, or did we miss a hidden gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!