This post rounds up the best period romances to stream across all your favorite platforms.
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that Mr. Darcy ruined modern dating life.
He made us crave intense gazes, reluctant vulnerability, and someone who ‘struggles in vain’ to resist falling for us. Ardently.
What we get instead are mediocre texting skills, inconsistent communication, and far fewer English estates. No wonder that to get our dose of mannerly romance, we are forced to retreat into streamable alternatives.
So if you need a romantic morale boost set in a historical setting, here is a handpicked list of 17 irresistible period romances to stream that guarantee to lift your spirits.
Classics of Period Romance
When it comes to adapting literary classics, miniseries almost always outshine movies. Simmering glances and societal drama simply need more than two hours to breathe.
Miniseries give us the slow-burn angst we crave — enough time for Mr. Darcy to glower properly or Heathcliff to unleash all his existential drama. So if you’re diving into period romances, I’d recommend limited series over feature films.
I’ve seen them all and here are the best adaptations of these classics (for there are many).
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
The iconic BBC adaptation with Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy needs no introduction. From breathtaking English countryside settings to that iconic lake scene, this miniseries is a masterclass in slow-burn romance and repressed emotions. This is the Darcy that messed up any chances for realistic dating expectations.
Thank you, Colin.
Available on: Prime Video, Hulu, BritBox & Passionflix
Sense and Sensibility (2008)
Usually, the star-studded 1995 version featuring Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, and the rest of its famous cast tops most recommendation lists. However, this version works better. The relatively unknown cast allows the story to shine without distraction making this adaptation more engaging.
Available on: Prime Video, Hulu, BritBox & Apple TV
Emma (2009)
Look, I’m all for modern adaptations of classics. But when it comes to Jane Austen, any attempt to make her “cool” for a new generation tends to backfire spectacularly (yes, 2022’s Persuasion with Dakota Johnson, I’m looking at you). Generally, the closer an adaptation sticks to the original, the better. And while I have no complaints about the 2020 version with Anya Taylor-Joy, this miniseries is simply superior.
Available on: Prime Video, BritBox & Apple TV
North & South (2004)
This four-part adaptation follows Margaret Hale, a middle-class Southerner who moves to the industrial northern town of Milton, where she meets the brooding and formidable John Thornton. It’s a slow-burn romance with class tension and one unforgettable train station scene.
Side note: Richard Armitage’s portrayal of John Thornton sparked the creation of an entire fanbase dubbed “the Army” (much like “Cumberbitches” for Benedict Cumberbatch). Hence, here’s your social proof the lead is sufficiently swoon-worthy.
Available on: Prime Video, BritBox & Apple TV
Wuthering Heights (2009)
I consider this miniseries the best adaptation of Wuthering Heights, though I’ll admit the “haunt me then” monologue is delivered more powerfully in the 1992 movie with Ralph Fiennes. For the ultimate experience, I recommend watching this miniseries first, then checking out Ralph Fiennes’ haunting delivery on YouTube.
Fun fact: This is how Tom Hardy met his wife.
Available on: Prime Video, PBS Masterpiece, BritBox & Apple TV
Jane Eyre (2006)
The 2006 Jane Eyre miniseries is gothic romance at its finest, with Ruth Wilson as the fiery, no-nonsense Jane and Toby Stephens as Mr. Rochester. Over four glorious episodes, you get all the passion, secrets, and creepy mansion vibes you could want.
Side note: The 2011 film starring Michael Fassbender and Mia Wasikowska is decent if you want a quick cinematic dive into Jane Eyre. But again, the miniseries gives the brooding intensity more space to breathe,
Available on: Prime Video, Hulu, BritBox & Apple TV
Modern Hits with a Romantic Flair
Sometimes, it’s nice to mix things up with a more modern take on romance. While I prefer keeping Austen classics untouched, contemporary reimaginings of period dramas bring fresh perspectives, blending old tropes with new twists (and more bedroom scenes).
If you’re craving a modern twist on the classic formulas, these recent hits bring romance with a contemporary flair.
Bridgerton (2020 – )
In the unlikely event you’ve just landed from another planet and haven’t heard of Bridgerton, here’s a brief rundown: the first two seasons are a delightful rollercoaster of romance, gossip, and scandal. Season three is more of a “meh.” Binge the first two seasons for all the drama, but feel free to skim through season three while eagerly awaiting the next one.
If Bridgerton leaves you dreaming of lavish balls and elegant soirées, check out Bridgerton-themed birthday party ideas.
Available on: Netflix
Outlander (2014 – )
Claire Beauchamp Randall, a World War II nurse, is unexpectedly catapulted back to 1743 Scotland, where she finds herself in turbulent times. Amidst the chaos, she meets a bold Highland warrior and gets drawn into an epic rebellion, all while grappling with the shock of her time-traveling predicament and unexpectedly intense romance. By the end of it, you will inevitably want to time-travel with tall, muscly Highlanders.
Available on: Starz, Netflix & Hulu
Little Women (2019)
Little Women (2019) is Greta Gerwig’s fresh, visually stunning take on the classic novel, where four sisters navigate the highs and lows of life during the American Civil War. The movie features an all-star cast and reimagines the story with a nonlinear structure, making it feel like a historical epic and a modern-day girl squad at the same time.
I initially doubted Timothée Chalamet’s ability to deliver virile, passionate love declarations. Well, I was wrong.
Available on: Prime Video, Hulu & Netflix
Sanditon (2019 – 2023)
Based on Jane Austen’s unfinished manuscript, Sanditon is a refreshing blend of romance, drama, and the sharp wit we’ve come to love from this beloved author. The series brings to life the seaside town of Sanditon, where spirited Charlotte Heywood gets swept up in the intrigue of its eccentric residents, mysterious newcomers, and blossoming love interests.
Jane Austen would likely give her seal of approval.
Available on: Prime Video & PBS Masterpiece
Downton Abbey (2010 – 2015)
Downton Abbey is like a never-ending game of “who’s having tea with whom”, filled with family drama, forbidden romances, and the occasional servant scandal. It’s the show that proves no matter how many times a tragedy strikes, there’s always room for one more lavish dinner party and a perfectly timed witty remark from Maggie Smith.
Available on: Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV, BritBox & Peacock
Call the Midwife (2012 – )
This poignant, romantic series revolves around a group of midwives in London’s impoverished East End during the 1950s and 1960s.
The show has been a big hit in the UK since its debut in 2012 and has enjoyed long-running success ever since. From delivering babies under the most trying conditions to negotiating the shifting responsibilities of women in post-war society, it never seems to run out of drama.
Available on: Prime Video, PBS Masterpiece, BritBox & Netflix (earlier seasons)
Lesser-Known Period Romances to Stream
These hidden period romances might not have the same buzz as Bridgerton or Downton Abbey, but they’ll have you swooning just as much. These uncharted gems are perfect when you’ve exhausted every well-known period drama and need a fresh batch of period romances to stream.
The Paradise (2012 – 2013)
The Paradise tells the story of Denise, an ambitious young woman who begins working at a grand department store under the aloof yet magnetic owner, John Moray. And when I say aloof, I mean this guy is so emotionally unavailable, that he’d sooner share his secrets with a mannequin than open his heart to anybody.
The series was canceled after two seasons, likely because John stopped being aloof. However, the first season is worth a chance.
Available on: Prime Video, BirtBox, Peacock & PBS Masterpiece
The Forsyte Saga (2002 – 2003)
The Forsyte Saga, set in the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, is an alluring look into the life of the scandal-prone and absurdly affluent Forsyte family. It’s chock-full of family feuds, social drama, and sweeping love triangles.
Long before Billions made him a contemporary legend, Damian Lewis played Soames Forsyte, marking the beginning of his signature roles as possessive, brooding antiheroes.
Available on: Prime Video, PBS Masterpiece & Apple TV
The Empress (2022 – )
This lavish German-language series chronicles the life of Elisabeth of Bavaria, aka “Sisi,” as she’s swept into a whirlwind romance with Emperor Franz Joseph. Her new life in 19th-century Vienna plunges her into a world of suffocating court rules, political intrigue, and scandal.
The show is visually stunning, emotionally intense, and delightfully steamy. It’s the perfect watch when you’re in the mood for opulence, imperial backstabbing, and high-stakes romance.
Available on: Netflix
Poldark (2015 – 2019)
Set in the beautiful Cornish landscape, Poldark is the perfect mix of drama, romance, and a whole lot of brooding. Ross Poldark, played by Aidan Turner, returns from war to find his life in disarray — his family’s gone to ruin and his true love is with someone else. This made his shirt come permanently off for some reason.
Fun fact: Aidan Turner almost didn’t get the role. Imagine.
Available on: Prime Video, PBS Masterpiece & Apple TV
Victoria (2016 – 2019)
This romantic drama series brings to the screen the life of Queen Victoria. It centers on her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert, her early years as a monarch, and the headaches of running a kingdom. With lavish costumes and intricate locations, it combines romance, political intrigue, and other imperial hardships.
Available on: Prime Video, PBS Masterpiece & Apple TV
Conclusion
And so we conclude the post about 17 irresistible period romances to stream to fuel your historical escapism cravings. From the classic charm of Pride and Prejudice to the modern twists of Bridgerton and beyond, these series and films offer passion, drama, and a few history lessons. They’ll have you dreaming about normal men and wanting to travel back in time. Until you remember the perks of modern plumbing.
Happy watching!
PS: Got any favorite period romances not included in the list? Drop your suggestions in the comments! 🙂
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