35 Best Shows Like Bridgerton You Must Watch
Do you enjoy watching historical drama series? Well, TV shows like Bridgerton use historical events to build a compelling story about love, rivalry, and power. The series gives us a glimpse at the London High Society in the Regency era of British history and how it was like to live in those times. Bridgerton has won the audience with its premiere and the second season became the most-watched English-language show on Netflix with 656.16 million watching hours within a month of its release. The outstanding success has inspired at least two more seasons and a prequel series, currently in production. That means it would take more than a year for the next episode to air. Now, we know it can be hard to wait that long for your favorite show. So, we have created this long list, mentioning the best TV shows like Bridgerton you can watch while you wait for season 3. So, let’s get straight to it.
Historical Dramas Like Bridgerton to Watch in 2022
Below is the list of the best TV series like Bridgerton set in the Regency era, talking about royal families, and packed with power struggles, politics, and survival. In addition, many biographical shows with unique stories, like Gentleman Jack, Dickinson, and more, have amassed their separate fan followings.
Most importantly, each show is set in the past, with many of them inspired by classic novels and using real historical events as inspiration. The list also contains several shows from different settings and languages, ensuring there is something to satisfy everyone’s needs. Kindly use the table below to read about the series that appeals to you.
1. Sanditon (2019-)
Sanditon is a historical drama TV series based on the unfinished work by Jane Austen. The story takes place in the Regency era in a small fishing town called Sanditon that is reinventing itself as a seaside resort. We follow Charlotte Heywood (Williams), an unconventional and spirited girl who accidentally reaches the village and feels excited about the new experience. However, she soon realizes that the villagers are too ambitious and share many well-kept secrets. How Charlotte works her way through the village and finds love doing so is charming to watch. Love and rivalry are a few common themes, making Sanditon one of the shows similar to Bridgerton.
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2. Harlots (2017-2019)
Harlots is a period drama television series inspired by “The Covent Garden Ladies” by British historian Hallie Rubenhold. The story takes place in 18th-century London and follows Margaret Wells (Morton) as a canny and determined brothel runner. When she faces backlash, she decides to move her business to another location to serve elite clients. In her attempt to secure her daughters’ future and survive in the brutal world, Wells makes some rivals that lead to continuous tension.
The show was discontinued after the third season despite having fairly positive reviews. Still, it builds a brilliant drama at the intersection of survival, business, and family.
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3. Dickinson (2019-2021)
Dickinson is a comedy-drama television series based on the life of Emily Dickinson, regarded as one of the greatest poets in American history. The story takes place in the 19th century when Dickinson (Steinfeld) was young. The budding writer finds herself out of place due to her imaginative point of view. She constantly challenges the constraints of society, gender, and family while discovering more about herself. Not to mention, it’s eye-pleasing to watch Steinfeld as the audacious aspiring poet.
Produced by Apple TV+, the show presents a modern sensibility while showing historical events. Check out our detailed list of thebest shows on Apple TV+to find more such gems.
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4. The Pursuit of Love (2021)
The Pursuit of Love is a romance drama miniseries based on the 1945 eponymous novel by Nancy Mitford. The story follows Linda (James) and her cousin through their life and friendships as they seek different things in life. Linda discovers her aim is to find the perfect guy and settle down, which is more challenging than she has imagined.
The miniseries consisting of just three episodes is a quick and pleasurable watch. The show is highly praised, with mixed reviews for James’ performance. So, if you like the romantic theme, The Pursuit of Love is one of the best shows like Bridgerton you can watch.
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5. The Cook of Castamar (2021)
The Cook of Castamar (La cocinera de Castamar) is a Spanish period drama television series adapted from Fernando J. Muñez’s novel of the same name. Taking place in early 18th century Madrid, the story follows an agoraphobic yet talented cook, Clara Belmonte (Jenner). We see how she falls in love with the widowed Duke of Castamar (Enríquez) while working in his kitchen. The audience received the show positively, making it one of the best Spanish shows like Bridgerton.
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6. The Great (2020-)
The Great is a historical and satirical black comedy-drama loosely based on the rise of Catherine the Great, Empress of All Russia and the longest-reigning female ruler. The story follows a young Catherine the Great (Fanning) who comes to Russia to get married to Peter III of Russia. However, she despises the dogmatic beliefs and customs of her new family.
We see how Catherine, an outsider, adapts to the Russian lifestyle and replaces her depraved and dangerous husband as the ruler. The TV show is highly praised for the acting performances that compensate for a loose story.
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7. Outlander (2014-)
Outlander is a historical drama series based on Diana Gabaldon’s ongoing novel series. The story here follows Claire Beauchamp Randall (Balfe), a nurse in World War II. However, she is transported to Scotland in 1743 mysteriously. There, Claire falls in love with a dashing Highland warrior, Jamie Fraser (Heughan), marries him, and gets drawn into an epic rebellion.
Currently, the series has been renewed for a seventh season with a prequel series that will focus on Jamie Fraser’s parents. It is one of the most popular shows like Bridgerton showing power struggle.
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8. Vanity Fair (2018)
Vanity Fair is a historical drama miniseries based on the 1848 novel by William Makepeace Thackeray. The story follows poverty-stricken Becky Sharp (Cooke) in her attempt to climb through the ranks of the English society after Napoleon’s defeat. Her efforts, manipulation, fighting, forbidden romance, and dancing bring her to the court of King George IV.
Meanwhile, she also faces failure in love and fortune while making her way. The miniseries is highly praised for recreating the classic novel in a modern sense. Lead actor Cooke is also praised for her performance.
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9. Gentleman Jack (2019-)
Gentleman Jack is a historical drama television seriesbased on the collected diaries of Anne Lister. The story takes place in 1832 when Anne (Jones) heads up to Yorkshire, England, to take care of the estate she inherits from her uncle. However, she finds out the family also has a coal mine on their land that two brothers have stolen. We see her struggle to get back what lawfully belongs to her.
Meanwhile, we also explore her romance with another lady in a subplot. Anne Lister has written around 4 million words in cryptic diaries, mentioning her journey. She is also regarded as one of the modern lesbians who talked about same-gender romance when it was forbidden. If you support gender-neutral love, I suggest you check our list ofbest LGBTQ+ movies.
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10. Poldark (2015-2019)
Poldark is a historical drama television series based on the novels by Winston Graham. The story follows Ross Poldark (Turner) returning from the American War of Independence back to his hometown. But, he discovers that his father has died, and his childhood sweetheart is married to his cousin Francis. Poldark then hires a maid to do the household work, but he falls in love and marries her. The rest of the story shows how Ross and his family are dealing with their marriages, lost loves, death, the birth of their children, and war. So, if you are looking for shows like Bridgerton showing the impact of historical events, Poldark is an excellent watch.
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11. The Crown (2016-)
The Crown is a historical drama television series based on the award-winning playThe Audienceby show creator Peter Morgan and follows thelife of Queen Elizabeth II from the 1940s to modern times. The first season covers the early reign of the queen after her father, King George VI’s demise. The later season covers Elizabeth II’s journey throughout the years, including the Suez Crisis, the Profumo affair scandal, Prince Edward’s birth, and so on.
The show is packed with romances, personal intrigues, political rivalries, and similar themes that shaped the better part of Queen Elizabeth II’s life. The show has won several accolades, including Emmy Awards and Golden Globe, and is considered one of thebest Netflix series.
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12. Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
Downton Abbey is a historical drama series set in the early 20th century, and I’m sure many of you have already heard of it. We follow the chronicles of Robert Crawley (Bonneville) between 1912 and 1926. His family estate is at risk of heritage after its heirs die on Titanic. Soon, the Crawleys meet Matthew, the next heir in line who despises the aristocratic way of life.
The drama series uses real-life events as inspiration and plot points like the First World War, the Spanish influenza pandemic, the Marconi scandal, and more. After the conclusion of the sixth season, the story continues through two feature-length movies titled Downton Abbey and Downton Abbey: A New Era. This is one of the best and most entertaining shows like Bridgerton.
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13. Belgravia (2020)
Belgravia is a historical drama based on Julian Fellowes’s novel of the same name. The story is set in the 19th century Belgravia, an affluent district of London. The series starts at the Duchess of Richmond’s ball, where the Trenchards arrive two days before the Battle of Waterloo. The events lead to several consequences over the decades as we’re introduced to some stunning secrets in London’s grandest neighborhood. The viewers loved the series for portraying the lavish lifestyle and an exciting story weaved around plotting revenge and romance, making it a TV series extremely similar to Bridgerton.
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14. The Gilded Age (2022-)
The Gilded Age is a historical drama television series taking place in the late 19th century. The story follows Marian Brook (Jacobson), arural girl who moves to New Yorkafter her father’s demise. It’s the time when New York is starting to establish itself as the world’s economic capital. Marian then finds herself stuck between the cold politics of the self-made Russell family and the established Van Rhijn-Brook family. The show also glimpses the conflicts of middle and upper-middle-class society.
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15. Victoria (2016-2019)
Victoria is a historical television drama series showing the early life of Queen Victoria. The series begins with Victoria (Coleman) ascending to the British throne at the tender age of 18. Later, she falls in love and marries Prince Albert (Hughes). The latter part of the series portrays how the queen manages her life as a new mother and the youngest monarch of Britain.
The audience loved this captivating show like Bridgerton for the romance and strong acting performances. The series is alsocriticized for depicting historical events inaccurately. However, the dramatization asks for a little creative editing.
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16. Miss Scarlet and the Duke (2020-)
Miss Scarlet and The Duke is a British-Irish period crime drama show following a pair of Victorian investigators. This TV series begins with Eliza Scarlet (Phillips) in a critical spot after her father’s demise. The unmarried woman decides to continue her father’s detective agency against all odds. Fortunately, she meets Detective Inspector William Wellington (Martin) of Scotland Yard, also known as “The Duke.” The two form an uncanny partnership and tackle the mysteries and crime in Victorian London.
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17. The Tudors (2007-2010)
The Tudors is a historical fiction television show set in 16th-century England. The name is directly taken from the Tudor Dynasty, but the show mainly focuses on the reign of King Henry VIII (Meyers). The story begins with the early time of King Henry VIII’s reign when he is tested by international conflicts and political intrigue in his court.
The series also portrays Henry’s famous female companions, including Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn. This sensual period drama mainly focuses on personal conflicts and love interests instead of politics. The audience loved the unique take on the historical setting that made The Tudors one of the highest-rated shows at premiere time.
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18. The Spanish Princess (2019-2020)
The Spanish Princess is a limited historical drama series based on the novels by Philippa Gregory and serves asa sequel to The White Queen and The White Princess. The story follows Catherine of Aragon (Hope) when she finally visits England to meet her betrothed Arthur, Prince of Wales. However, after reaching there, she feels unwelcomed by some.
Meanwhile, Catherine realizes that the romantic correspondence she received in the past years was written by Arthur’s younger brother Henry. Everything seems to be falling apart, but Catherine finds her way to become the Queen of England.
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19. Little Women (2017)
Little Women is a BBC television historical drama miniseries adapted from the two-part novel by Louisa May Alcott. Thecoming-of-age story focuses on four sisters during the American Civil War. The four siblings see it all from rivalry, first love, loss, and marriage, understanding what it truly means to be an adult. The series is highly praised for showing the struggles of young women in America’s early times. The three-part miniseries is loved by audiences and is an excellent watch on a lazy afternoon.
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20. Anne With an E (2017-2019)
Anne with an E is a Canadian television series loosely adapted from Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novelAnne of Green Gables. This TV series reimagines the classic book and the lead character Anne (McNulty), a young orphan seeking acceptance and love in the world. She has gone through an abusive childhood in orphanages and strangers’ homes. However, her life changes when she is mistakenly sent to live with aging siblings Marilla and Matthew. Her unique approach toward life and smart and imaginative ways transform everyone in the town, including Marilla and Matthew. The viewers loved the series for adapting the source material in a truly authentic way, making it realistic.
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21. The White Queen (2013)
The White Queen is a British BBC historical television drama based on Philippa Gregory’s historical novel series. The story is set around the War of the Roses, a series of conflicts around the control of the English throne. It begins in 1464 when the country is amidst a 9-year-long war between the two sides of the same family to decide on the rightful king.
We see how three women from the family manipulate Elizabeth Woodville, Margaret Beaufort, and Anne Neville, events behind the scenes to gain power and create history. The short series comprises power struggles and plotting sly events to win the throne. The show received a positive response from the viewers; however, it is considered overly steamy.
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22. Call the Midwife (2012-)
Call the Midwife is a BBC period drama series based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, taking place in 1950s London. The story follows a group of nurse midwives (nurses trained to care for mothers during childbirth) working in the East End of London. We see how the gangstruggles with their everyday lifewhile adapting to the fast-changing world. Viewers highly appreciated the series for tackling topical subjects around pregnancy and love.
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23. The Knick (2014-2015)
The Knick is a medical period drama taking place in a fictionalized Knickerbocker Hospital in the early 20th century. We follow Dr. John Thackery (Owen) as the chief surgeon at Knickerbocker Hospital in New York. We see his and the staff’sstruggle to provide the best possible care for patients in a racially charged and drug-addicted city. The series also shows personal conflicts and hardships coming in the way of social responsibility. The show is praised for bringing brutal topics to light while keeping the overall tone down-to-earth.
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24. Reign (2013-2017)
Reign is a historical romantic drama series set in the late 16th century. The series follows Mary, Queen of Scots (Kane), in her early life. She arrives in France at the tender age of fifteen and marries Prince Francis. The following story focuses on her rise as the Queen of France and her friendship with the handmaidens. The show is full of political conflicts, hidden motives, power struggles, and more, making this one of the best shows like Bridgerton.
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25. Versailles (2015-2018)
Versailles is a French historical fiction drama set during the Palace of Versailles’ construction. The story follows 28-year-old Louis XIV (Blagden), who finally becomes the King of France. He then commands tobuild the most beautiful palace in Europe, which attracts many nobles to seek entry due to its lavishness. However, Louis XIV plans to imprison and control the nobles.
In a subplot, we also see his wife and queen, Marie Theresa struggling to keep her husband to herself. The show is packed with love, power, betrayal, and war, making it fairly similar to Bridgerton.
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26. Medici (2016-2019)
Medici is a historical drama set during the Renaissance era in France. The TV series follows the Medici family, bankers of the Pope, and the owner of the richest bank in Europe. Ittakes place in a span of around 40 yearsand then shows how the family fights to preserve its power in Florence. The French series is picked by Netflix and is broadcasted in over 190 countries. So, if you like French dramas, Medici is the best series like Bridgerton you can watch on Netflix.
Watch trailerhere
27. The Paradise (2012-2013)
The Paradise is a TV costume drama based on Émile Zola’s 1883 novelAu Bonheur des Dames. The story follows Denise (Vanderham), a small-town girl who moves to the city to work in the glamorous English department store, The Paradise. She is soon seen as a rising star by store owner John Moray. But, Denise faces many struggles at her job because of other shopgirls and shopkeepers nearby as their business suffers due to the grand store.
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28. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
The Last Kingdom is a historical fiction series based on Bernard Cornwell’sThe Saxon Storiesseries of novels. The show takes place in a fictional setting during the invasion of England. We follow Uhtred (Dreymon), a young successor of the Saxon territory who was captured and raised by the Danes as their own.
After several years, Danes test Uhtred’s loyalties to their family. It is interesting to watch hisactions to protect himself and claim his rightful title. The show is highly appreciated for its beautiful cinematography and thrilling action scenes. This series is now available on Netflix, with a feature-length sequel film titled Seven Kings Must Die in production.
Watch trailerhere
29. The Borgias (2011-2013)
The Borgias is a historical-fiction drama set in Renaissance-era Italy. The story follows the Borgias family in theircontroversial rise in the papacy. The ruthless and brutal family takes all measures like bribery, intimidation, and murder to gain wealth and power. It leads to the Borgias becoming the most infamous crime family in Italy.
The entertaining show received mixed reviews for being short on storytelling. So if you are a history buff not expecting something like The Godfather, The Borgias is a decent watch similar to Bridgerton.
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30. Cable Girls (2017-2020)
Cable Girls (Las chicas del cable) is a Spanish period drama set in the early 20th century. The TV series follows the lives of four girls who join the first telecommunication company in Madrid. Each girl comes with a different reason to join the office, and we see their struggles to keep up with life. The series alsoshows what hardships women had to face in 1920 Spain. You might not find Cable Girls similar to Bridgerton for the story. However, the setting and emotional themes are relatable.
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31. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017-)
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is a period comedy-drama series produced by Amazon Studios. The story takes place in the late 1950s, and it follows Miriam “Midge” Maisel (Brosnahan), a New York housewife having everything she might ask from life. Bored by her monotonous life, she discovers her hidden talent for stand-up comedy.
The rest of the series follows her journey in the male-dominated stand-up industry as she begins performing in cafes and nightclubs. The series is highly praised for Brosnahan’s energetic performance and is considered one of thebest Amazon original series.
Watch trailerhere
32. Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
Gossip Girl is a teen drama series based on the novel series of the same name by Cecily von Ziegesar. The story begins with Serena van der Woodsen (Lively) returning from a mysterious absence. She is reunited with her frenemy Blair Waldorf (Meester) and her mother. She also meets Dan Humphrey (Badgley), an aspiring writer from Brooklyn and Serena’s love interest throughout the show.
A sequel series titled Gossip Girl is currently in production. It will follow the same theme with a new cast and Kristen Bell reprising her role as the narrator of “Gossip Girl.”
Watch trailerhere
33. The Lizzie Bennet Diaries (2012-2013)
The Lizzie Bennet Diaries is a web series adapted from Jane Austen’s 1813 novel Pride and Prejudice. The whole series is acollection of vlog-like videos consisting of 100 episodespublished on its own dedicated YouTube channel. The vlogs appear as recorded by Lizzie Bennet (Ashley Clements), where she talks about her everyday life.
Most of the events take place off-screen, and we are only introduced to them as a retelling by Lizzie. The later part of the series explores new characters and set locations. The Lizzie Bennet Diaries is one of the unique web series or novel adaptations. It became the first web series to win an Emmy for Outstanding Creative Achievement In Interactive Media – Original Interactive Program. So, if you are looking for shows like Bridgerton but have an appetite for off-beat content, watch The Lizzie Bennet Diaries.
Watch episodeshere
34. Les Misérables (2018-2019)
Les Misérables is a television miniseries based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same name. The series takes place after the Battle of Waterloo and revolves around several characters. We see a young boy, Marius Pontmercy (Josh O’Connor), raised by his conservative, monarchist grandfather. Jean Valjean (West) is serving a prison sentence of nineteen years for stealing a loaf of bread. Fantine (Collins) is a young girl impregnated by a rich student Felix (Flynn), who abandons her with their daughter. The viewers praised the series for adapting brilliantly from the source material and performance of the vibrant cast.
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35. Alias Grace (2017)
Alias Grace is a Canadian television miniseries based on Margaret Atwood’s 1996 eponymous novel. The story here follows Grace Marks (Gadon), an Irish immigrant in Canada. She is convicted of murdering one of her employers and is serving her sentence. However, things take an exciting turn when a psychiatrist visits to analyze her mental state. Viewers praised Gadon’s performance and consider the series one of the best Margaret Atwood adaptations.
Watch trailerhere
Watch Top Shows Like Bridgerton Right Now!
Bridgerton is undoubtedly one of the most popular shows depicting the Regency era. It has also made a huge cultural impact, and the fans worldwide are waiting for the next season to air. Meanwhile, I brought you every other best series like Bridgerton that you can enjoy while you await its release. The shows mentioned in the list cover historical drama shows that take place in the Regency era of the British or way before that. There is a variety in stories, settings, and language, ensuring that there is something for everyone on this list. I hope you found at least one show that appealed to you. If you know any more similar shows like Bridgerton, please mention them in the comment section, and I will be happy to add them to our list.
Beebom Staff
Bringing the latest in technology, gaming, and entertainment is our superhero team of staff writers. They have a keen eye for latest stories, happenings, and even memes for tech enthusiasts.
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