18 Shows to Watch After You Binge Bridgerton

Dearest Gentle Readers,

The incomparable cast of Bridgerton are finally back and the ton is buzzing with gossip. If my sources are correct, you are here because like so many others you sadly consumed all the content too quickly and alas are left yearning for another season. But fret not gentle readers, for this author finds herself compelled to share that there is a plethora of period dramas waiting to sweep you off your feet. From aristocratic balls to salacious court intrigue, these 18 shows offer captivating storylines and rich historical settings that will whisk you to another era and keep you entertained for hours, indeed!

Yours Truly,

Lady Whistledown

1. Downton Abbey: Immerse yourself in the lives of the Crawley family and their servants as they navigate the social changes of early 20th-century England. With its compelling characters and upstairs-downstairs drama, Downton Abbey offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the British aristocracy.

2. The Gilded Age: Step into the opulent world of 1880s New York City, where old-money families clash with nouveau riche upstarts in this series also from Julian Fellowes, the creator of Downton Abbey. With its lavish sets and complex characters, The Gilded Age promises to be a sumptuous feast for period drama lovers.

3. The Buccaneers: Based on Edith Wharton's unfinished novel, this miniseries follows the adventures of American heiresses in late 19th-century England as they navigate high society and pursue love and independence. While it's no Masterpiece Theater, The Buccaneers offers a fresh take on the period drama genre with its blend of romance and social commentary.

4. Poldark: I've been begging my boyfriend to take me to Cornwall since seeing this series. Set against the stunning backdrop of 18th-century Cornwall, Poldark follows the tumultuous life of Ross Poldark as he returns from the American Revolutionary War to find his world in turmoil. With its breathtaking scenery and gripping storylines, Poldark is a must-watch for fans of romance and adventure.

5. War and Peace: Adapted from Leo Tolstoy's epic novel, this sweeping mini series follows the lives of Russian aristocrats during the Napoleonic Wars. With its sprawling cast of characters and intertwining storylines, War and Peace offers a rich tapestry of love, war, and political intrigue.

6. The Great: A satirical take on the rise of Catherine the Great, this irreverent series blends humor with historical drama as it explores the young empress's efforts to modernize Russia. With its witty dialogue and bold performances, The Great is a fun twist on the period drama genre.

7. Belgravia: Another one from the creators of Downton Abbey, Belgravia is a tale of secrets and scandals set in 19th-century London society. With its gripping plot twists and intricate characters, Belgravia will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

8. Reign: Follow the rise and fall of Mary, Queen of Scots, in this captivating series set against the backdrop of 16th-century France. With its lush costumes and dramatic plotlines, Reign offers a youthful take on historical fiction with a touch of romance and intrigue...think Gossip Girl meets The Tudors. If you haven't watched the Tudors, please see #13 on our list.

9. Outlander: Travel through time with Claire Randall as she finds herself torn between two different centuries and two different loves in this thrilling blend of romance, adventure, and historical fiction. With its gripping storytelling and breathtaking Scottish landscapes, Outlander is a must-watch for fans of epic romance. I've really enjoyed all of the different historical places and time periods in history that this show has covered. I will warn you (mom if you're reading this) this show has enough sex and violence to rival Game of Thrones, that said the storytelling really is masterful.

10. Sanditon: Moving back to one of mom's favorite authors, Sanditon is based on Jane Austen's unfinished novel. This series follows the fortunes of Charlotte Heywood as she navigates the intrigues of the seaside resort of Sanditon. With its charming characters and picturesque setting, Sanditon offers a delightful escape to Regency-era England.

11. Victoria: Follow the early years of Queen Victoria's reign as she navigates the challenges of monarchy, marriage, and motherhood in this lavish period drama. With its strong performances and compelling storylines, Victoria offers a fascinating glimpse into one of history's most iconic figures. Honestly, no one makes em like Masterpiece Theater does, so good.

12. Harlots: Set in 18th-century London's world of brothels and bawdy houses, Harlots follows the lives of two rival madams as they struggle for power and survival. With its bold storytelling and complex female characters, Harlots offers a provocative exploration of gender, class, and power.

13. The Tudors: Dive into the scandalous world of Henry VIII's court in this lavish historical drama that chronicles the king's marriages, betrayals, and political maneuverings. With its sumptuous costumes and steamy romance, The Tudors is a captivating blend of history and soap opera.

14. The Forsyte Saga: Written by John Galsworthy, The Forsyte Saga explores the lives, loves, and conflicts of the wealthy Forsyte family. The sweeping family saga is set in the late Victorian and Edwardian England. Galsworthy won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1932 for his work, which encompasses The Forsyte Saga and its sequels. My boyfriend once asked me if I ever get tired of watching the same type of shows over and over, but when it comes it to this particular period piece, I did not see all of the twist and turns coming!

15. The White Queen: Set during the War of the Roses, this gripping series follows three women who vie for the English throne in a world of political intrigue and shifting alliances. With its strong female leads and high-stakes drama, The White Queen is a thrilling ride through one of England's most tumultuous periods.

16. The White Princess: Continue the saga of the War of the Roses with this series, which follows the reign of Elizabeth of York as she navigates the treacherous waters of court politics and dynastic warfare. With its blend of romance and political intrigue, The White Princess is a gripping exploration of power and ambition.

17. The Spanish Princess: Follow the story of Catherine of Aragon, the Spanish princess who became Henry VIII's first wife, in this lush historical drama set against the backdrop of Tudor England. With its strong performances and richly detailed production design, The Spanish Princess offers a fresh perspective on a familiar tale.

18. The Crown: Explore the reign of Queen Elizabeth II in this critically acclaimed series that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the British royal family and the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century. With its stellar cast and meticulous attention to detail, The Crown is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by royalty and history.

There you have it dearest readers, whether you're drawn to tales of royalty, romance, or political intrigue, these 18 shows are sure to satisfy your craving for period drama after indulging in the world of Bridgerton. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to another time and place.