Britain has given the world with great television. From their gripping crime dramas such as: Sherlock, LutherAnd Peaky Blinders with their quirky sitcoms such as Fleabag, Derry girls, And Chewing Gum – Time and time again, viewers are reminded of their creative talents as they produce projects that consistently excite and entertain.
One of the other genres in which they particularly thrive is fantasy. Between mythological creatures and the mystery of magic, some British fantasy shows have captured the hearts of many people. Here are a few you should check out first – some you may know and others are hidden gems.
Updated on July 17, 2023, by Jessie Nguyen:
On July 28, S. Good omens Season 2 will be released, not only the return of the beloved duo, Crowley and Aziraphale, very guilty, but also the British fantasy genre. So, now is the perfect time for fans to check out other gems from England.
13 ‘Dracula’ (2020)
Reimagine the classic Halloween story with a modern, 2020 twist Dracula following the infamous titular vampire (Claes Bang) as he begins his journey from his dark castle in Transylvania to the Victorian era in England.
Jumping back and forth in time, keeping parts of the 1897 novel’s structure, and surprising the audience with a few twists all help the story keep things interesting. Moreover, similar to other BBC productions, it is full of clever dialogue, special effects, and the kind of rapid-fire cuts that provide the necessary shock value.
Watch on Netflix
12 ‘Britannia’ (2018 – 2021)
Set in 43 AD, the Roman Empire has returned with a vengeance to destroy the Celtic heartland of Britannia – a strange land ruled by warrior women and powerful druids – and complete the invasion that Julius Caesar could not.
As an exciting piece of historical fiction, Britannia A hidden gem in the fantasy genre. With brutal action and an incredibly rich world, this show almost feels like a fever dream with brilliant production design and stunning cinematography, especially when dealing with magical inheritance that almost appears hallucinogenic. It’s dark, it’s twisted, and it’s still a lot of fun.
Watch on Prime Video
11 ‘Wolfblood’ (2012 – 2017)
Wolfblood Revolves around the lives of individuals called Wolfbloods – creatures that are part human and part wolf. It co-stars Maddy Smith (Aimée Kelly) and Rhydian Morris (Bobby Lockwood), two Wolfbloods who try to keep their supernatural identities a secret from the human world while navigating high school and teenage challenges.
The show deftly examines the difficulty of juggling two characters and the intricacies of identification and acceptance. Moreover, Wolfblood Delivering an important message about self-acceptance and others through outstanding performances, skillful writing, stunning visuals, and captivating style, it’s a must-see for fans of fantasy dramas and anyone looking for a series with compelling characters, above the genre.
Look at the Peacock
10 ‘The Child of the Wicked and the Devil’ (2022)
Having discovered that he is the illegitimate child of Marcus Edge (David Gyasi) — The Famous Dangerous Witch — Nathan Byrne (Jay Lycurgo) is suddenly caught between two warring bloodlines.
With incredible world-building, compelling characters, and fantastic acting, The Bastard Son & The Devil himself A quick hit, even with all its gore and brutality. A modern-day story with the fire of a magical reality, it’s no wonder fans can’t stop raving about the show. And yet, it became another popular program that Netflix mysteriously canceled after just one season.
Watch on Netflix
9 ‘His Raw Materials’ (2019 – 2022)
Lyra Belacqua (Dafne Keen), a young orphan girl, begins a journey to find her missing friend. But her adventure takes a sharp turn when she discovers a deeper, more sinister plot involving child kidnapping and a magical substance called Dust.
As a beloved adoption Philip PullmanA classic fantasy novel, it’s safe to say that His dark material get better than its bad movie adaptation, Golden compass. Maybe it’s the magic of HBO or just the medium of television – and the luxury of time – but the rich story world of His dark material Come literally to life and follow an epic adventure that is both exciting and emotional. It also helps to showcase stellar support that includes the likes of James McAvoy, Ruth WilsonAnd Andrew Scott.
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8 ‘Being Human’ (2008 – 2013)
Vampires, werewolves, and demons try to live together under the same roof – each trying to solve the complexities of their own lives and integrate into the human world.
Where the location makes this show seem like a fun sitcom or another supernatural spoof, a la What we do in the shadows, A human beingA strange drama that has gained a large cult following over the years. With all its magical elements making the plot extra fire, its magic comes from the story being rooted in humanity. In fact, the show proved so influential that it spawned a North American adaptation that began airing in 2011.
Watch on AMC+
7 ‘Merlin’ (2008 – 2012)
With magic forbidden by its king, Merlin (Colin Morgan) had to hide his powerful abilities when he was sent into Camelot. But things get complicated after Merlin saves Prince Arthur’s life (Bradley James) because he was quickly aware of his destination; He must protect the young prince as he prophesied to bring magic back to the land and unite the world.
From the epic scope to the beautiful world-building to the even greater performances, it’s no surprise that MerlinDevelop an incredibly passionate fan base and achieve great success. Often described as a lighthearted show, this fantasy series is full of twists and turns that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Watch on Prime Video
6 ‘Witch Discovery’ (2018 – 2022)
Based on the book series of the same name by Deborah Harkness, The discovery of witches Follow Diana Bishop (Teresa Palmer), is a historian and reluctant witch who discovers a mysterious manuscript in the Bodleian Library in Oxford. She became entangled in the magical world, including vampires and daemons, as the discovery of this book sets a chain of events.
The show does a great job of setting the scene by introducing the audience to the world of historic structures and magnificent bridges. In addition, The discovery of witches It’s a rare show that does almost every element of the gripping Gothic subgenre that manages to provide not only a decent escape but also a heartfelt love story at its center.
Watch on AMC+
5 ‘Good Omens’ (2019 – )
Realizing that the earth is facing an imminent apocalypse, the finicky angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and the carefree demon Crowley (David Tennant) formed an unlikely alliance to stop the end of the world.
Based on Neil GaimanThe famous novel of, Good omens Has fallen into the good graces of many fans. Where it captivated audiences with its interesting ideas, this show truly finds its magic with the brilliant dynamics – especially between Sheen and Tennant. The show was very popular despite being advertised as one-dimensional. Good omens It has since been renewed for a second season, allowing expansion into Gaiman’s world and his original narrative.
Watch on Prime Video
4 ‘Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell’ (2015)
In the alternate reality of 19th century England, during the Napoleonic Wars, the practice of magic is not as frequent as it used to be. That is, until two men, Gilbert Norrell (Eddie Marsan), a highly skilled magician, and Jonathan Strange (Bertie Carvel), a budding novice, come up against their abilities.
Based on Susannah ClarkThe award-winning novel, many fans and critics found the same Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell For an exciting viewing experience. With its haunting drama and Gothic-like aesthetic, this show evokes the classic British era and captivates audiences with its magical narrative. In fact, the show was so successful that it received four BAFTA nominations and was even recognized by the British Film Institute as one of the best British TV shows to come out in 2015.
3 ‘Inappropriate’ (2009 – 2013)
While completing their community service, five young criminals are struck by lightning during a freak storm, giving them mysterious superpowers.
As today’s movie climate becomes dominated by superheroes, wrong Provides a fresh take on the genre with a twist on an unlikely hero. From its dark humor to its madness – sort of boy Found the skin – The show is an unconventional superhero story combined with a bunch of youth angst, adults.
Watch on Hulu
2 ‘Ashes to Ashes’ (2008 – 2010)
After being shot in 2008 by a man named Arthur Layton (Sean Harris), DI Alex Drake (Keeley Hawes) wakes up suddenly, only to find herself in 1981 – face to face with several former members of the British police, which she has read from old reports in her research.
A sequel to the series Life on MarsAnother beloved British show, ashes to ashes, Provide uniqueness in the average police procedure; Not only does Alex try to solve her mysterious fate, but she also solves strange criminal cases while in this fragile state. With major twists along the way, this show cleverly blends crime and fantasy. It also helps its ’80s setting Ashes to ashes A phenomenal soundtrack that includes songs from famous artists such as: David Bowie, Duran DuranAnd Blonde skin.
Watch on BritBox
1 ‘Ghost’ (2019 – 2023)
Having unexpectedly inherited an abandoned country house from a distant relative, Alison (Charlotte Ritchie) and her husband Mike (Kiell Smith-Bynoe) decided to improve it into a luxury hotel. Unbeknownst to them, the estate is haunted by many ghosts who have died on the grounds of the house throughout history – all of whom are unhappy with Cooper’s upcoming plans.
Written and created by the team and cast of the beloved children’s sketch-comedy show, Horrible history, Ghost A charming sitcom that guarantees laughs for the whole family. From its quirky performances, witty comedy, and unbelievably strong chemistry between the main cast – it’s no wonder this show has become such a hit. In fact, it became so fast that it took only a few months after the initial broadcast for this British comedy to be adapted for the American screen.
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