30 Most Binge-Worthy Historical Drama TV Shows, Ranked

If your family hasn't watched enough historical drama TV shows, then we're here to help you narrow down your next binge-watch.

Let’s be real: Almost every family member enjoys watching lengthy TV series as a distraction from what’s going on in the world. And there’s no better genre to do this with than the historical drama. That’s because they take you back to a time when life was maybe not simpler but at least a whole lot different than it is today.

If your family hasn’t watched enough historical drama TV shows, then we’re here to help you narrow down your next binge-watch. We ranked 30 of the best historical dramas streaming on television today, from definitely-watch-an-episode-or-two to start-watching-it-tonight.

30. Versailles

Versailles

Network: Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV

Date debuted: Dec. 14, 2015–May 21, 2018

No. of seasons: 3 (30 episodes)

This historical fiction drama revolves around the life of young King Louis XIV of France in 1667 when he takes the throne. His desire to turn Versailles into the most beautiful palace in France is met with mixed reactions of approval and opposition from the noblemen in his court. Power, romance, war and betrayal are all part of life at Versailles. Still, the stunning scenery and exquisite costumes really add to the intrigue of this entertaining series.

29. Sandition

Sandition

Network: Amazon Prime, YouTube, Apple TV

Date debuted: Aug. 25, 2019–Present

No. of seasons: 2 (14 episodes)

Set in the quiet fishing village of Sandition, this period-drama adaptation of Jane Austen’s final novel follows lead character Charlotte Heywood, a spirited woman attempting to reinvent herself at a seaside resort. There, she meets Sidney Parker, a man with ambitious plans to turn the quiet residence into a bustling resort. Although the two clash, Charlotte and Sidney are inexplicably drawn to one another. Fortunately, their budding romance will continue since season 3 of Sandition is in the works.

28. The Durrells in Corfu

The Durrells in Corfu

Network: Amazon Prime, Vudu, Apple TV

Date debuted: April 3, 2016–May 12, 2019

No. of seasons: 4 (26 episodes)

A British comedy-drama, “The Durrells of Corfu” is widow Louisa’s story and her brave decision to move her family of four children from dreary England to a sunny Greek Island. The show is based on Gerald Durrell’s classic trilogy of Corfu memoirs that chronicle his family’s adventures on the island in the 1930s and beyond. Louisa’s mischievous offspring often find themselves in sticky but humorous situations, making this light-hearted series a fun escape.

27. Victoria

Victoria

Network: Amazon Prime, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: Aug. 28, 2016–May 12, 2019

No. of seasons: 3 (25 episodes)

This historical drama focuses on the life of Queen Victoria, her accession to the throne when she was only 18 and her relationship with Prince Albert. Several actual historical events are portrayed in the series, such as the Chartist movement and the revolution in Frace in 1848. However, the plot centers mainly on how Victoria deals with the responsibilities of being queen.

26. Hell on Wheels

Hell on Wheels

Network: Amazon Prime, YouTube, Sling, Vudu, Apple TV

Date debuted: Nov. 6, 2011–July 23, 2016

No. of seasons: 5 (57 episodes)

The Civil War is over, but former Confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon is hunting for the Union men who killed his wife. During his journey for revenge, Bohannon takes a job with the Union Pacific Railroad in a lawless town filled with interesting characters, including sleazy politicians and a slick railroad tycoon. Loosely based on historical facts, “Hell on Wheels” takes us inside the underbelly of the construction of the first transcontinental railroad and the lives that were changed irrevocably by its success.

25. Harlots

Harlots

Network: Hulu, Amazon Prime

Date debuted: March 27, 2017–Aug. 28, 2019

No. of seasons: 3 (24 episodes)

Set in 18th century London, “Harlots” follows the life of brothel owner Margaret Wells and her two adult daughters. Much of the plot centers on the rivalry between Margaret and her nemesis, another brothel owner named Lydia Quigley. The series shines a light on the gritty truth about sex workers, poverty and the great divide between the classes.

24. Medici

Medici

Network: Netflix

Date debuted: Oct. 18, 2016–Dec. 11, 2019

No. of seasons: 3 (24 episodes)

A historical drama and political thriller, “Medici” is the tale of a wealthy family’s rise to power during the social uprising in medieval Italy. The series is a dramatization of the life of Cosimo de’ Medici, played expertly by actor Richard Madden. Each season is chock-full of deceit, adventure, romance, murder and greed.

23. The Borgias

The Borgias

Network: Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Sling, fuboTV, Amazon Prime, Showtime, Vudu, Apple TV

Date debuted: April 3, 2011–June 16, 2013

No. of seasons: 3 (29 episodes)

Set in Renaissance-era Italy, this series follows the lives of the scandalous and dysfunctional Borgias family from Spain. Patriarch Rodrigo will stop at nothing to rise up in the ranks of the Catholic Church to be the next pope. The decadent storyline touches on edgy topics such as extramarital affairs, treachery and greed within the Catholic church. Jeremy Irons is superb in the leading role of the pope.

22. All Creatures Great and Small

All Creatures Great and Small

Network: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu,

Date debuted: Sept. 1, 2020–Present

No. of seasons: 2 (14 episodes)

In 1937 Glasgow, a young veterinary student fresh out of college works for a popular country vet in Yorkshire Dales. The storyline follows protagonist James Herriot as he learns the ropes at his new job with a friendly, lively staff. This heart-warming and, at times, humorous series is well worth watching. And we’re in luck: A third season is set to debut in fall 2022.

21. Knightfall

Knightfall

Network: Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Prime

Date debuted: March 25, 2019–May 13, 2019

No. of seasons: 2 (18 episodes)

This historical fiction drama takes place in 1306 and features the Knights Templar, a powerful organization in the Christian world. The story centers on the lead Templar knight Landry, who is fighting to keep the Templar’s foothold in the Holy Land. “Knightfall” is an excellent depiction of medieval politics, gruesome warfare and complicated relationships.

20. Black Sails

Black Sails

Network: Hulu, Starz, YouTube, Sling, Philo, Apple TV

Date debuted: Jan. 25, 2014–April 2, 2017

No. of seasons: 4 (38 episodes)

A prequel to Robert Lewis Stevenson’s novel “Treasure Island,” “Black Sails” follows the adventures of Captain Flint and his notorious crew in the West Indies. The series takes place in 1715 and showcases Flint’s struggle to save the debauched New Providence Island. This action-adventure series with subplots involving pirates, thieves, sex workers and fortune seekers make for a riveting show.

19. Belgravia

Belgravia

Network: Amazon Prime, Sling, Pluto, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: March 15, 2020–April 19, 2020

No. of seasons: 1 (6 episodes)

A historical drama set in the 19th century, “Belgravia” focuses on the up-and-coming Trenchard family rubbing shoulders with the elite of London society. The show is riddled with scandal, betrayal and secrets, making it irresistible to binge-watch.

18. The Spanish Princess

The Spanish Princess

Network: Hulu, Starz, YouTube, Sling, Philo, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: May 5, 2019–Nov. 29, 2020

No. of seasons: Two-part miniseries with 16 episodes

“The Spanish Princess” is a continuation of “The White Queen” and “The White Princess” (up next) saga that takes a closer look at the women of the Tudor royal court. The show is based on the life of Catherine of Aragon, the Spanish princess who married King Henry VIII. There are also plenty of subplots involving the lives of the commoners who lived and worked in 16th-century London, which keeps the series interesting.

17. The White Princess

The White Princess

Network: Hulu, Starz, YouTube, Sling, Philo, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: April 16, 2017–June 4, 2017

No. of seasons: Miniseries with 8 episodes

“The White Princess” is another miniseries that is an adaptation of Philippa Gregory’s 2013 novel of the same name. It’s the sequel to “The White Queen” (more on it next), this time focusing on Dowager Queen Elizabeth Woodville’s daughter Elizabeth (Lizzy) during the War of the Roses. The show is every bit as entertaining as its prequel, rife with conflict, romance, politics and adventures.

16. The White Queen

The White Queen

Network: Hulu, Starz, YouTube, Sling, Philo, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: June 16, 2013–Aug. 18, 2013

No. of seasons: Miniseries with 10 episodes

This gripping historical drama takes place in 1464 England during the deadly feud between the House of York and the House of Lancaster over who should be king. The story centers on Lancastrian commoner Elizabeth Woodville and her relationship with Edward IV, heir to the throne for the House of York. This juicy drama has it all — power struggles, romance, bloody skirmishes and political intrigue.

15. Poldark

Poldark

Network: Sling, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: March 8, 2015–Aug. 26, 2019

No. of seasons: 5 (43 episodes)

Based on Winston Graham’s novels, this historical series tells the story of Captain Ross Poldark, a redcoat who returns to Cornwall after years of fighting in the American Revolutionary War. Unfortunately, Poldark is unprepared for the changes that have occurred during his absence —such as his father’s death and his girlfriend’s betrothal to one of his greatest rivals. This show is packed with adventure, romance and action in the mining community, making it a binge-worthy treat.

14. Deadwood

Deadwood

Network: HBO Max, Hulu, YouTube, Vudu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV

Date debuted: March 21, 2004–Aug. 27, 2006

No. of seasons: 3 (36 episodes)

Set in a lawless mining town in the west during the post-Civil War years, “Deadwood” focuses on the lives of the people who inhabit the area. Most of the residents are searching for their fortune in the small mining town, while others, such as protagonist Sheriff Bullock, are busy settling the brutal territory. The show includes plenty of grit, greed, romance and gunfights. Still, it’s Ian McShane’s performance as saloon owner Al Swearengen that makes this series stand out.

13. Reign

Reign

Network: Netflix, Apple TV, YouTube

Date debuted: Oct. 17, 2013–June 16, 2017

No. of seasons: 4 (78 episodes)

“Reign” is a historical romance drama that follows the rise of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots and her alliance with Prince Francis of France. There is plenty of political treachery, action and sexual dalliances in the French court to keep viewers entertained for hours.

12. The Crown

The Crown

Network: Netflix

Date debuted: Nov. 4, 2016–Present

No. of seasons: 4 (40 episodes)

The historical drama that needs no introduction, “The Crown” chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth I from the 1940s to the 1980s (so far). Beginning with the Queen’s early reign, the show covers several decades of her life and depicts a rich history of romance, intrigue and political rivalries.

11. The Great

The Great

Network: Hulu, YouTube, Apple TV

Date debuted: May 15, 2020–Present

No. of seasons: 2 (20 episodes)

This comedy-drama is based in 18th-century Russia and follows the comedic rise of Catherine the Great. Based loosely on historical facts, the show is a delightful period romp that is both wicked and entertaining, and viewers can expect a third season.

10. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Network: Amazon Prime

Date debuted: March 17, 2017–Present

No. of seasons: 4 (34 episodes)

In the late 1950s, Midge Maisel gives up an elegant, comfortable life as a housewife in New York’s Upper West Side to pursue a career in stand-up comedy. The show revolves around Midge’s struggle to find fame in the comedy industry. The show has earned several awards at the Golden Globes and Emmys.

9. The Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom

Network: Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Prime

Date debuted: Oct. 10, 2015–March 9, 2022

No. of seasons: 5 (36 episodes)

A British historical drama based on the resistance of the Kingdom of Wessex and early Viking attacks, the series spans 50 years. The story follows the life and times of protagonist Uhtred, a slave in Danish Northumbria who must later choose between his ancestors or the people who raised him. Beautiful cinematography, powerful characters and nail-biting action scenes are what make this program so enjoyable.

8. Annie With an E

Annie With an E

Network: Netflix, Amazon Prime

Date debuted: March 19, 2017–Nov. 24, 2019

No. of seasons: 3 (27 episodes)

Based on the classic book “Anne of Green Gables,” this coming-of-age story is about a 13-year-old orphaned girl who is desperate for love and acceptance. Taking place in the late1880s, the series focuses on the transformation of Anne and her impact on friends and the family that adopts her.

7. Bridgerton

Bridgerton

Network: Netflix

Date debuted: Dec. 25, 2020–Present

No. of seasons: 2 (16 episodes)

This wildly popular and Emmy-nominated drama popped up on Netflix in December 2020 and was an overnight hit. Produced by Shonda Rhimes, the not exactly historically accurate show takes place during the Regency era in England and focuses on the lives of the eight siblings in the powerful Bridgerton family. Wealth, lust, intrigue and betrayal are all part of this fun romp through time that promises more seasons to come.

6. Mad Men

Mad Men

Network: Amazon Prime, Vudu, Sling, YouTube

Date debuted: July 19, 2007–May 17, 2015

No. of seasons: 7 (92 episodes)

“Mad Men” is a drama TV series that spotlights the high-pressure world of ad agencies in 1960s New York. The plot focuses on main character and alpha male Don Draper, who struggles to rise to the top at the prestigious ad agency where he works. Unfortunately, his thirst for success destroys many of his personal relationships both at home and at work.

5. Vikings

Vikings

Network: Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: March 3, 2013–Dec. 4, 2020

No. of seasons: 6 (89 episodes)

This engaging, epic drama delves deep into the brutal world of the Vikings, beginning with the story of the famous warrior Ragnar Lothbrok. The series follows his adventures across the seas to discover new lands and his quick rise to power. During the six action-packed seasons, the show progresses over the years, focusing on the lives of Ragnor’s sons and their struggle for control over the land.

4. Call The Midwife

Call The Midwife

Network: Amazon Prime, Pluto, Netflix, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu

Date debuted: Jan. 15, 2012–Present

No. of seasons: 11 (95 episodes)

Adapted from the best-selling memoirs of Jennifer Worth, this heart-warming series takes a moving and, at times, humorous look at midwifery in the 1950s in impoverished East London. The show focuses on nurse Jenny and her relationship with the nuns and other nurses she works for at the convent. It’s easy to be drawn into the lives of the friends and family Jenny associates with, giving this show its well-earned popularity — with even more seasons to come.

3. The Tudors

The Tudors

Network: Hulu, Showtime, Apple TV, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Sling, fuboTV, Vudu

Date debuted: April 1, 2007–June 20, 2010

No. of seasons: 4 (38 episodes)

This entertaining series focuses on King Henry VIII’s tumultuous years during 1509 to 1547. The show examines Henry’s famous wives and lovers and delves deep into his relationships with several important figures in history. Johnathan Rhys Meyers is superb in the role of king, delivering an intriguing perspective of Henry’s personal life.

2. Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey

Network: Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Peacock, Vudu, Apple TV

Date debuted: Sept. 26, 2010–Dec. 25, 2015

No. of seasons: 6 (52 episodes)

Set in the early 20th century, this British drama follows the lives of the wealthy Crawley family and their many servants. The program spans several years, beginning with the sinking of the Titanic and moving forward into WWI. “Downton Abbey” received critical acclaim from television critics and won numerous awards during its six-season run.

1. Outlander

Outlander

Network: Netflix, Stars, Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon Prime, Philo, Vudu, Apple TV

Date debuted: Aug. 9, 2014–Present

No. of seasons: 6 (75 episodes)

This time-travel historical drama features a 1945 combat nurse visiting Inverness with her husband when she is accidentally transported back in time to 1743 Scotland. As she navigates life in a completely different world, she is forced to marry Highland warrior Jamie Frasier (played by Sam Heughan) when her freedom is threatened. A passionate relationship ensues as Claire struggles to survive between two different worlds with two different husbands. The series is packed with historical tidbits, romance and action; plus, Heughan’s swoon-worthy performance makes this show an absolute must-see.

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