If you loved the charming and nostalgic drama of 'Doctor Finlay' (1993), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that capture the same heartwarming storytelling, period settings, and compelling medical or small-town narratives. Whether you're a fan of historical dramas or character-driven series, these picks will keep you entertained.

Ballykissangel (1996)
Description: A charming series about life in a small Irish village, featuring a mix of humor, drama, and the quirks of rural community life.
Fact: The show's title refers to a fictional village in County Wicklow, Ireland.


Monarch of the Glen (2000)
Description: Set in the Scottish Highlands, this show revolves around the restoration of a family estate, blending humor, drama, and a strong sense of place.
Fact: The series was initially intended to be a one-off drama but was extended due to its popularity.


The Last Detective (2003)
Description: A detective series with a gentle, character-driven approach, focusing on the protagonist's personal life and his interactions with a close-knit community.
Fact: The show is based on the 'Dangerous Davies' novels by Leslie Thomas.


The Royal (2003)
Description: Set in a small hospital in the 1960s, it shares a nostalgic, community-focused narrative with a strong emphasis on medical drama and interpersonal relationships.
Fact: The show was a spin-off from the popular series 'Heartbeat' and was filmed in the same location.


Doc Martin (2004)
Description: A medical drama with a comedic twist, set in a picturesque coastal village, focusing on the grumpy but skilled doctor and his interactions with the locals.
Fact: The character of Doc Martin was originally created for a 2000 film called 'Saving Grace.'


Call the Midwife (2012)
Description: This series focuses on the lives of midwives in a working-class community, blending medical drama with heartfelt stories about community and resilience.
Fact: The show is based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth and has been praised for its historical accuracy.


The Durrells (2016)
Description: A heartwarming family drama set in the 1930s, focusing on the Durrell family's adventures and their integration into a new community in Corfu.
Fact: The series is based on Gerald Durrell's autobiographical books, particularly 'My Family and Other Animals.'


The Good Karma Hospital (2017)
Description: A medical drama set in India, it combines the challenges of healthcare with the warmth and complexity of life in a small community.
Fact: The series was filmed in Sri Lanka, standing in for southern India.


Lark Rise to Candleford (2008)
Description: A gentle, character-driven period drama that explores the lives of villagers in rural England, emphasizing community bonds and everyday struggles.
Fact: The series is based on Flora Thompson's semi-autobiographical novels and was filmed in the Cotswolds.


Heartbeat (1992)
Description: A period drama set in a rural village, it captures the charm of small-town life and the dynamics of a close-knit community, much like the reference title.
Fact: The series was inspired by the 'Constable' books by Nicholas Rhea and ran for 18 seasons.
