If you loved 'The Duchess of Duke Street' (1976) for its rich period drama, strong female lead, and intricate storytelling, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that capture the same essence of historical intrigue, ambition, and compelling character arcs. Whether you're a fan of British period pieces or simply crave more stories of resilience and determination, this list has something for you.

Daniel Deronda (2002)
Description: A George Eliot adaptation that intertwines the lives of a young man searching for his identity and a Jewish woman facing societal prejudice, set in Victorian England.
Fact: The novel was controversial for its sympathetic portrayal of Jewish characters. The adaptation was filmed in various historic locations across the UK.


Downton Abbey (2010)
Description: This series delves into the intricate relationships between the wealthy Crawley family and their servants, set against the backdrop of historical events in post-Edwardian England.
Fact: The fictional Downton Abbey is filmed at Highclere Castle in Hampshire. The show has been praised for its attention to historical detail.


The Mill (2013)
Description: Based on real historical events, this series portrays the harsh realities of life for workers in a 19th century cotton mill, highlighting social injustice and the fight for workers' rights.
Fact: Filmed at Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire, a real historic cotton mill. The show used actual archival records to inform its storylines.


Mr Selfridge (2013)
Description: Chronicles the life of Harry Gordon Selfridge and his revolutionary department store, showcasing the blend of personal ambition, retail innovation, and societal shifts in early 20th century London.
Fact: Jeremy Piven, who plays Selfridge, immersed himself in the role by visiting the real Selfridges store and studying its history. The series was filmed in London and Manchester.


The Paradise (2012)
Description: Set in the first department store in 19th century England, this series explores ambition, romance, and social change, with a strong female lead navigating a male-dominated world.
Fact: Based on Émile Zola's novel 'Au Bonheur des Dames'. The show was filmed in a former Victorian railway building in Newcastle.


The Village (2013)
Description: A drama set in a Derbyshire village spanning the 20th century, focusing on the lives of ordinary people and the impact of historical events on their community.
Fact: Praised for its unflinching portrayal of rural poverty. The series was filmed in the Peak District, using authentic locations to enhance its realism.


Poldark (2015)
Description: A sweeping historical drama set in 18th century Cornwall, following the tumultuous life of Ross Poldark as he navigates love, loss, and social upheaval after returning from war.
Fact: The series is based on Winston Graham's novels. Many scenes were filmed on location in Cornwall, showcasing its rugged coastline and mining heritage.


Lark Rise to Candleford (2008)
Description: A charming adaptation of Flora Thompson's semi-autobiographical novels, focusing on the contrast between rural and town life in late 19th century England, with rich character development.
Fact: The series was filmed in various locations across the UK, including Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. It was praised for its authentic portrayal of rural English life.


Upstairs, Downstairs (1971)
Description: A British period drama that explores the lives of both the aristocratic family and their servants, highlighting the social hierarchy and personal dramas of early 20th century England.
Fact: The show was originally conceived as a comedy but evolved into a drama. It won seven BAFTA Awards during its run.


The Crimson Petal and the White (2011)
Description: A gritty Victorian drama that follows the rise of a prostitute to a higher social standing, exploring themes of class, gender, and power in 19th century London.
Fact: Adapted from Michel Faber's bestselling novel. The production meticulously recreated the squalor and opulence of Victorian London.
