Historical TV shows are all the rage right now, which is amazing for someone like me who has always lived and breathed dramas steeped in historical events.

If you’re someone who’s getting into historical dramas or has always loved them and wants more recommendations, in this post, I’ve listed 10 of my personal favorites that are truly thrilling.

Many popular historical movies and dramas tend to focus heavily on romance. This isn’t to dismiss the romance genre, but personally, I prefer when romance intertwines with a deeper plot. The shows in this list deliver just that.

So, if like me, you’ve been searching for historical TV shows that strive for accuracy while delivering an amazing storyline, check out the dramas in this post.

1. Poldark

Set in late 18th century Cornwall, Poldark follows Ross Poldark as he returns from the American War of Independence to find his home in disarray. 

The series then continues as he tries to rebuild his life and estate, while getting familiar with the social challenges of the time and the many complicated relationships in his wake. 

2. The Crown

This historical drama ks a detailed portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, spanning from her early days as queen in the 1950s to recent events before her death. 

It goes into the personal and political challenges faced by the monarch, as well as the evolving dynamics within the royal family and with British society.

3. Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey is set in the early 20th century Britain and it focuses on the aristocratic Crawley family. 

I especially liked this series because it dealt with social hierarchy,  the ebb and flow of societal norms, and the impact of historical events such as World War I on both the family and their estate.

4. Bridgerton

Based on Julia Quinn’s novels, Bridgerton is a romantic drama set in London’s Regency era. 

It follows the Bridgerton family and their social circle as they move through London’s high society, filled with romance, scandal, and intrigue, all orchestrated by the mysterious Lady Whistledown.

5. Victoria

This lovely series chronicles the early life of Queen Victoria, from her ascension to the throne at a young age through to her marriage to Prince Albert and the early years of their reign. 

Victoria grows with us over the course of the series and trust me when I say you’re  going to be hooked from start to finish.

6. The Last Kingdom

Set in the late 9th century AD, The Last Kingdom follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon noble captured and raised by Vikings. 

As he shuffles between his Saxon heritage and Viking upbringing, Uhtred becomes embroiled in the birth of a new England amidst the backdrop of Alfred the Great’s efforts to unite the kingdoms.

7. Versailles

This series is a lavish depiction of the reign of King Louis XIV in 17th century France.

It also explores the opulent court life at Versailles, the political maneuverings, and the personal intrigues that shaped one of the most iconic periods in French history.

8. Harlots

Set in 18th century London, Harlots focuses on the rival brothel owners Margaret Wells and Lydia Quigley, as they vie for control of the city’s lucrative sex trade. 

9. Jamestown

Jamestown follows the first English settlers as they establish the Jamestown colony and contend with the challenges of survival in the New World in the 17th century. 

You’ll get to see harsh realities of colonial life, witness their interpersonal conflicts, and interactions with Native Americans.

10. Medici: Masters of Florence

This historical drama chronicles the rise of the Medici family in Renaissance Florence. 

It follows Cosimo de’ Medici as he tries to make sense of the intense political intrigue, banking rivalries, and personal challenges to establish the family’s dominance in Florence’s economic and political landscape.

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As promised, these are the best historical shows you will ever watch, and you are genuinely going to enjoy every one of them.

Let me know your favorites in the comment section below, and if you have any more recommendations, feel free to drop them as well.

In the meantime, the related post has many other fantastic recommendations you definitely want to check out.