35 Best British TV Shows of All Time, Ranked

British television has a knack for delivering stories that stick with you, whether they make you laugh, cry, or sit on the edge of your seat. From quirky comedies to gripping dramas, the UK has produced some of the world’s most memorable shows, blending sharp writing with unforgettable characters.

I’ve put together a list of the 35 best British TV shows of all time, ranked based on their impact, popularity, and storytelling brilliance. Each one has left its mark on audiences, and I’m excited to dive into what makes them so special.

35. ‘The Inbetweeners’ (2008-2010)

This comedy follows four awkward teenage boys navigating the chaos of suburban life and school. Their cringe-worthy antics, from chasing girls to dodging bullies, capture the messy reality of adolescence with sharp humor.

The show’s raw, unfiltered take on youth struck a chord, spawning two hit movies. Its relatable characters and laugh-out-loud moments make it a modern classic for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.

34. ‘Peep Show’ (2003-2015)

‘Peep Show’ dives into the minds of two dysfunctional flatmates, Mark and Jez, through a unique point-of-view filming style. Their disastrous attempts at love, work, and friendship are both hilarious and painfully awkward.

David Mitchell and Robert Webb shine as the leads, delivering deadpan wit and chaotic energy. The show’s bold storytelling and dark humor have earned it a cult following.

33. ‘Blackadder’ (1983-1989)

This historical comedy tracks the scheming Edmund Blackadder across different eras, from medieval courts to World War I trenches. Rowan Atkinson’s sharp delivery and biting sarcasm anchor every season.

With a stellar cast including Hugh Laurie and Tony Robinson, the show blends clever wordplay with absurd situations. Its ability to mix history with humor keeps it timeless.

32. ‘The Royle Family’ (1998-2012)

This sitcom centers on a working-class Manchester family, capturing their daily life through conversations on the sofa. It’s less about plot and more about the warmth and quirks of family dynamics.

Caroline Aherne and Craig Cash created a show that feels like a hug, with humor rooted in everyday moments. Its quiet brilliance resonates with anyone who loves their family, flaws and all.

31. ‘Life on Mars’ (2006-2007)

John Simm stars as Sam Tyler, a 2006 cop who wakes up in 1973, caught between gritty police work and a surreal mystery about his reality. Philip Glenister’s tough-talking Gene Hunt adds raw energy to the mix.

The show blends crime drama with a trippy sci-fi edge, hooking viewers with its bold concept and retro vibe. Across two seasons, its smart scripts and vivid characters made it a standout that still sparks debate.

30. ‘Gavin & Stacey’ (2007-2019)

This romantic comedy follows Gavin, an Essex lad, and Stacey, a Welsh girl, as their long-distance love story unfolds. Their friends and family add layers of humor and heart to the mix.

James Corden and Ruth Jones, who also star, wrote a show that balances sweet romance with laugh-out-loud banter. Its charm lies in its relatable characters and feel-good vibe.

29. ‘The Thick of It’ (2005-2012)

This political satire dives into the chaotic world of government spin doctors, led by the foul-mouthed Malcolm Tucker. It’s a sharp, fast-paced look at the absurdity of bureaucracy.

Peter Capaldi’s explosive performance as Tucker steals the show, while the biting dialogue keeps you hooked. It’s a masterclass in blending comedy with real-world commentary.

28. ‘The Vicar of Dibley’ (1994-2007)

Dawn French shines as Geraldine Granger, a lively vicar stirring up a sleepy village with her warmth and wit. The eccentric locals, like dim-witted Alice, spark constant laughs.

Running three seasons plus specials, this sitcom’s heartfelt comedy and tight ensemble hit all the right notes. It’s a cozy classic that earns its place with charm and timeless humor.

27. ‘MI5’ (2002-2011)

This intense thriller tracks British intelligence agents battling spies and terrorists, with stars like Peter Firth, Matthew Macfadyen and Keeley Hawes diving into high-stakes missions. Every episode feels like a race against time.

Known as ‘Spooks’ in the UK, it ran for ten seasons, mixing real-world fears with gripping personal drama. Its relentless pace and moral gray areas keep you glued, earning it a high rank for its bold take on espionage.

26. ‘Ripper Street’ (2012-2016)

Set in Victorian London’s gritty Whitechapel post-Jack the Ripper, this drama follows detectives like Matthew Macfadyen chasing criminals through dark streets. The period details pop off the screen.

Across five seasons, it weaves intense crime stories with rich character arcs, pulling you into a vivid historical world. Its raw energy and strong cast make it a must for crime fans.

25. ‘Father Ted’ (1995-1998)

Set on a fictional Irish island, this sitcom follows three exiled priests and their bumbling housekeeper. The absurd humor and quirky characters make every episode a joy.

Dermot Morgan and Ardal O’Hanlon lead a cast that nails the show’s mix of slapstick and satire. Its clever take on religion and small-town life still feels fresh.

24. ‘The IT Crowd’ (2006-2013)

This comedy dives into the misadventures of a dysfunctional IT department in a chaotic London office. The basement-dwelling techies face clueless bosses and bizarre problems with deadpan humor.

Chris O’Dowd and Richard Ayoade bring the laughs with their oddball chemistry. The show’s absurd scenarios and sharp one-liners make it a fan favorite.

23. ‘Skins’ (2007-2013)

This teen drama follows a group of Bristol kids dealing with love, drugs, and family drama. Its raw, unflinching look at youth launched stars like Nicholas Hoult and Dev Patel.

Each season refreshes with a new cast, keeping the stories bold and real. It’s a gritty, emotional ride that redefined teen TV.

22. ‘Vera’ (2011-present)

Brenda Blethyn brings DCI Vera Stanhope to life, a no-nonsense detective solving murders in the stark Northumberland countryside. Her sharp mind and gruff charm carry every case.

Still running strong, the show’s moody settings and tight mysteries make it a crime drama gem. Blethyn’s standout performance and the series’ knack for human stories place it firmly among the best.

21. ‘The Night Manager’ (2016)

This espionage thriller follows a former soldier, Jonathan Pine, infiltrating an arms dealer’s world. Tom Hiddleston and Hugh Laurie shine in a tense, stylish cat-and-mouse game.

Based on John le Carré’s novel, the show blends glamour with danger. Its sharp writing and sleek visuals make it a standout.

20. ‘Derry Girls’ (2018-2022)

Set during Northern Ireland’s Troubles, this comedy follows a group of teen girls and one boy navigating school and life. Their chaotic adventures are both hilarious and heartfelt.

The young cast, including Nicola Coughlan, brings energy and charm. The show’s mix of humor and history makes it uniquely compelling.

19. ‘Broadchurch’ (2013-2017)

This crime drama follows detectives in a small coastal town investigating a child’s murder. David Tennant and Olivia Colman deliver powerhouse performances as the grieving community unravels.

The show’s emotional depth and tight storytelling grip you from the start. It’s a haunting look at loss and justice that lingers long after.

18. ‘Mr. Bean’ (1990-1995)

Rowan Atkinson’s iconic character bumbles through life with minimal words and maximum chaos. His childlike antics turn simple tasks into comedic disasters.

The show’s universal humor and Atkinson’s physical comedy made it a global hit. It’s a timeless gem that needs no dialogue to shine.

17. ‘A Very English Scandal’ (2018)

This drama recounts the real-life scandal of politician Jeremy Thorpe, accused of plotting to murder his ex-lover. Hugh Grant and Ben Whishaw deliver gripping performances.

The show blends dark humor with political intrigue, capturing a turbulent era. It’s a sharp, stylish take on a shocking true story.

16. ‘Downton Abbey’ (2010-2015)

Julian Fellowes’ drama follows the Crawley family and their servants in a grand Edwardian estate, blending romance, rivalry, and social change. Maggie Smith’s biting Dowager Countess steals scenes.

Spanning six seasons, its lush visuals and rich characters drew millions worldwide, spawning two films. The show’s mix of heart and history makes it a fitting addition to this list.

15. ‘Luther’ (2010-2019)

Idris Elba stars as a troubled detective tackling brutal crimes in London. His intense, emotional approach to cases drives this gripping thriller.

The show’s dark tone and Elba’s magnetic performance keep you hooked. It’s a raw, thrilling dive into the mind of a flawed hero.

14. ‘Victoria’ (2016-2019)

This period drama follows Queen Victoria’s early reign, exploring her personal and political struggles. Jenna Coleman shines as the young monarch navigating a changing world.

The show’s lush visuals and rich storytelling bring history to life. It’s a captivating look at power, love, and duty.

13. ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ (1990-1995)

Patricia Routledge stars as Hyacinth Bucket, a social-climbing housewife whose posh dreams clash with her working-class roots. Her schemes to impress always end in hilarious chaos.

Across five seasons, the show’s sharp writing and Routledge’s pitch-perfect performance deliver non-stop laughs. Its relatable cringe and timeless gags earn it a solid spot.

12. ‘A Discovery of Witches’ (2018-2022)

This fantasy series follows a witch, Diana, and a vampire, Matthew, in a magical, romantic saga. Teresa Palmer and Matthew Goode spark as the star-crossed leads.

Blending romance, magic, and time travel, the show captivates with its lush world. It’s a spellbinding escape for fantasy fans.

11. ‘Catastrophe’ (2015-2019)

This comedy tracks an unexpected pregnancy that sparks a relationship between an Irish teacher and an American ad exec. Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney’s chemistry drives the humor.

The show balances raw comedy with real-life struggles, from parenting to love. It’s a sharp, heartfelt gem that never overstays its welcome.

10. ‘The Missing’ (2014-2016)

This anthology crime drama explores missing persons cases, with each season weaving a new mystery. Tchéky Karyo’s detective Julien Baptiste ties the stories together.

The show’s emotional weight and intricate plots keep you guessing. It’s a masterclass in suspense and human drama.

9. ‘Queer as Folk’ (1999-2000)

This groundbreaking drama follows three gay men in Manchester’s vibrant Canal Street scene. Its bold portrayal of queer joy and struggles was revolutionary for its time.

The show’s raw honesty and vibrant characters left a lasting impact. It paved the way for more diverse storytelling on TV.

8. ‘Midsomer Murders’ (1997-present)

Detectives like John Nettles and later Neil Dudgeon tackle bizarre killings in the deceptively quaint Midsomer county. Each episode serves up a fresh puzzle with a side of quirky villagers.

Over two decades on air, its blend of cozy charm and clever whodunits has kept fans hooked. The show’s enduring appeal and knack for balancing humor with murder secures its spot here.

7. ‘Happy Valley’ (2014-2023)

Sarah Lancashire stars as a tough police sergeant facing personal and professional battles in West Yorkshire. Her clash with a dangerous criminal drives this intense drama.

Sally Wainwright’s writing and Lancashire’s performance make it unforgettable. The show blends grit and heart in a powerful way.

6. ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ (1992-2012)

Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley play Edina and Patsy, a chaotic PR guru and her boozy best friend, stumbling through fashion and excess. Their over-the-top antics are pure comedy gold.

This sitcom’s biting satire and wild energy ran for five seasons and specials, cementing its cult status. Its fearless humor and iconic duo make it a standout in British comedy.

5. ‘Sherlock’ (2010-2017)

Benedict Cumberbatch plays a brilliant, modern-day Sherlock Holmes, cracking complex cases in London alongside Martin Freeman’s grounded John Watson. The show’s tight plots and slick style make every episode a brainy thrill ride.

Its sharp writing and electric chemistry between the leads turned it into a worldwide smash, running for four seasons. ‘Sherlock’ redefined detective dramas with its clever twists and bold storytelling, earning a spot near the top.

4. ‘Monty Python’s Flying Circus’ (1969-1974)

This sketch comedy redefined humor with its surreal, boundary-pushing sketches. John Cleese, Michael Palin, and the Python crew deliver iconic moments like the ‘Dead Parrot’ sketch.

Its absurd wit and social satire remain unmatched. The show’s influence on comedy is still felt today.

3. ‘Fawlty Towers’ (1975-1979)

John Cleese stars as Basil Fawlty, a chaotic hotel owner whose temper and mishaps spark hilarity. The small cast, including Prunella Scales, delivers flawless comedy.

With only 12 episodes, the show’s tight writing and timeless humor make it a legend. Every scene is a masterclass in farce.

2. ‘Doctor Who’ (1963-1989, 2005-present)

This sci-fi classic follows the Doctor, a time-traveling alien, and their companions across the universe. From William Hartnell to Ncuti Gatwa, each Doctor brings fresh energy.

The show’s blend of adventure, heart, and imagination has captivated generations. It’s a cultural juggernaut that keeps evolving.

1. ‘Only Fools and Horses’ (1981-2003)

This beloved sitcom follows Del Boy and Rodney Trotter, two brothers hustling in London’s Peckham estate. David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst shine as the lovable rogues chasing riches.

The show’s warmth, wit, and iconic moments, like the chandelier scene, cemented its place in British culture. It’s a heartfelt comedy that feels like home.

Which British TV show is your top pick, or did I miss a gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!