If you're a fan of the lavish period drama 'Downton Abbey' (2010), you're likely craving more shows and movies that capture its blend of aristocratic intrigue, historical detail, and emotional storytelling. This article will introduce you to 10 similar titles that offer the same mix of opulent settings, complex characters, and gripping narratives. Whether you're drawn to the upstairs-downstairs dynamics, the romantic entanglements, or the social commentary, these recommendations will keep you entertained.
Gosford Park (2001)
Description: Directed by Robert Altman and written by Julian Fellowes (creator of Downton Abbey), this film shares the same upstairs-downstairs dynamic, set in a 1930s English country house. It combines elements of a murder mystery with a sharp critique of the British class system, much like Downton Abbey's exploration of social hierarchies.
Fact: Julian Fellowes won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for this film. The film features an ensemble cast including Maggie Smith, who also stars in Downton Abbey. It was inspired by Jean Renoir's 1939 film The Rules of the Game.
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Call the Midwife (2012)
Description: While focused on working-class midwives in post-war London, this series shares Downton Abbey's warmth and attention to historical detail. Both shows explore social change and feature strong female characters navigating their personal and professional lives.
Fact: The series is based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth. It has been praised for its accurate depiction of 1950s-60s medicine and social conditions. The show's Christmas specials have become a British television tradition.
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The Paradise (2012)
Description: This series shares Downton Abbey's focus on both upstairs and downstairs characters, though set in a Victorian department store rather than a country house. The romantic entanglements and social commentary are similarly engaging.
Fact: It was the BBC's response to ITV's Mr Selfridge. The series is based on Émile Zola's novel Au Bonheur des Dames. It was cancelled after two seasons despite strong ratings.
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Poldark (2015)
Description: This period drama shares Downton Abbey's sweeping romanticism and focus on family dynamics, though set in 18th century Cornwall. The beautiful cinematography, complex characters, and exploration of social issues create a similar appeal.
Fact: The series is based on Winston Graham's novels, written over a 60-year period. Aidan Turner's shirtless scything scene became an internet sensation. This was the second BBC adaptation of the Poldark novels, following a 1970s version.
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The Gilded Age (2022)
Description: Another Julian Fellowes creation, this series transports Downton Abbey's formula to 1880s New York, exploring the clash between old money and new money in American high society. The lavish production design, complex character relationships, and focus on social change mirror Downton's appeal.
Fact: The series was in development for over a decade before finally being produced. It features Christine Baranski and Cynthia Nixon as warring aristocratic sisters. The show's title refers to the period of rapid economic growth in late 19th century America.
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Victoria (2016)
Description: While set in an earlier period, this series shares Downton Abbey's blend of historical drama and personal storytelling, focusing on Queen Victoria's reign. The attention to period detail, political intrigue, and romantic elements are similar to Downton's approach.
Fact: Jenna Coleman, who plays Victoria, was nearly cast as Lady Edith in Downton Abbey. The series was filmed at many of the same locations used in Downton Abbey. Prince Albert is played by Tom Hughes, who auditioned for the role of Tom Branson in Downton.
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Belgravia (2020)
Description: Created by Julian Fellowes, this series shares Downton Abbey's focus on aristocratic families and their secrets, set against the backdrop of 19th century London. The show's intricate plotting, lavish costumes, and exploration of social mobility are reminiscent of Downton Abbey.
Fact: The series is based on Fellowes' own novel. It was originally released as an audiobook with a star-studded cast before being adapted for television. The story begins with the infamous Duchess of Richmond's ball on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo.
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Lark Rise to Candleford (2008)
Description: This gentle period drama shares Downton Abbey's rural setting and focus on community relationships. The contrast between the simple life in Lark Rise and the more sophisticated Candleford mirrors Downton's upstairs-downstairs dynamic.
Fact: The series is based on Flora Thompson's semi-autobiographical novels. It features a young Olivia Hallinan before her role in Sugar Rush. The show ran for four series and 40 episodes.
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Upstairs, Downstairs (1971)
Description: Similar to Downton Abbey, this series explores the lives of both the aristocratic Bellamy family and their servants in early 20th century London. It shares themes of class division, social change, and the intricate relationships between masters and servants. The show's attention to historical detail and its blend of drama and romance make it a clear predecessor to Downton Abbey.
Fact: The series was created by actresses Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins, who also starred in it. It originally aired from 1971 to 1975 and was revived in
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The Forsyte Saga (2002)
Description: This adaptation of John Galsworthy's novels shares Downton Abbey's multi-generational storytelling and exploration of aristocratic family dynamics. The beautiful period setting and complex characters create a similar appeal.
Fact: It was the second BBC adaptation of the novels, following a famous 1967 version. Damian Lewis stars as the troubled Soames Forsyte. The series won a BAFTA for Best Drama Series in
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