TV viewers may be surprised by how many exemplary series BritBox houses. Home to a number of exceptional Agathie Christie adaptations, it's impossible even to pick one as a must-watch. From shows like Poirot (1989) to Agatha Christie's Marple (2004), there's no such thing as the wrong choice. Yet, outside of all the beloved author's book-to-screen adaptations, a BritBox subscription is worth getting for a variety of different shows and movies that are bound to provide thorough entertainment and keep viewers busy with a lot of new stars to appreciate. And that's another fun part of it all, there are a ton of great actors lending their talents to UK properties that aren't always available to stream elsewhere.
From comedies like Sister Boniface Mysteries (2022) to compelling dark thrillers like Luther (2010), here are eight out of the countless shows worth getting a BritBox subscription for.
Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
There's plenty to start with on BritBox, but Downton Abbey is perfect for all kinds of viewers. It's dark at times, deeply heavy, and yet it's a riveting account of a life in England during the post-Edwardian era that later leads to the 1920s and beyond. The show isn't easy to get into, but once a viewer gets through at least three episodes, then it's fully worth the investment despite the heartaches. The renowned estate is enough reason to give this series a chance, and it even includes a brilliant original score from the Chamber Orchestra of London and John Lunn.
At this point, Downton Abbey feels not only like a period drama staple but an important piece of media for the actors involved. The late Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Matthew Goode, and so many fantastic British actors consistently deliver impeccable performances to layer their characters memorably. While the series consists of five seasons, three movies follow, including the latest and final release, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (2025).
Sherlock (2010-2017)
There are a few Sherlock Holmes adaptations worth their salt, but Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss' Sherlock feels like an undeniable classic now. With stars like Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott, Mark Gatiss, and more, everything about the adaptation feels tailor-made for viewers who love lived-in performances. It's a show where it's clear that each actor feels like they were born for the role, and with mostly solid writing to honor various cases, the entire series shines as a worthy must-watch.
A BritBox subscription for Sherlock alone would be worth it, but it's especially worth it for people who grew up loving the books. More than that, back when it was airing, there were a number of memorable scenes that were all the rage over on Tumblr, including a kiss that even non-viewers obsessed over. It's the type of cultural phenomenon that exudes something so indescribable that it almost feels like a crime in and of itself not to watch it.
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
Whether you're a romance fan or not, the 1995 Pride and Prejudice is a must-watch for a number of reasons: it's accurate to the text, features incredible performances, and it's a timeless period piece. It's an example of what period pieces should be like, and all six episodes deliver an archetype of how to adapt a beloved book properly. It's the type of series that's so stunning in a simple manner that it proves you don't need grand, gaudy, shimmering locations and costumes in order for something to be compelling.
Colin Firth delivers one of the most exemplary performances as Mr. Darcy and embodies the complex character with such distinct mannerisms that even though there are a few versions of the story, no Darcy holds a candle to Firth. His performance alone is worth tuning in for, but it's also a must-watch for anyone who has hesitations about romance.
Luther (2010-2019)
For viewers wanting something dark and thrilling, look no further than Luther. Idris Elba delivers one brilliantly nuanced performance after another, and the exhilarating series holds a solid streak of excellency. Detective dramas like Luther tend to feature the psychological battles that are born from the job, but how this series, in particular, explores it is a treat all on its own. Pair the heavy (but always compelling material) with an actor like Elba, and it becomes truly indescribable.
BritBox is chock full of murder mystery shows, so the inclusion of Luther isn't all that surprising. But the fact that the series is allowed to be as dark as it gets is why it deserves a chance among the sea of thrilling shows. The amount of care that writer Neil Cross, put into the characterizations and narrative beats makes every episode feel rich and award-worthy.
Lynley (2025-Present)
BritBox also includes the original, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries (2002), but for viewers who might want something a bit more modern, the newest remake starring Leo Suter is already incredible in its first season. The show's debut introduces viewers to the titular inspector and his partner, Barbara Havers (Sofia Barclay), while bringing clever and intriguing cases to our screens.
Oftentimes, remakes don't hold up to the charm of the original, but Lynley does a brilliant job of honoring the original series while also adapting Elizabeth George's books with thoughtful attention to the source material. Suter's performance is incredible throughout, and he continues to prove that he's one of the most versatile (and underrated) actors of our generation. If for no other reason, the performances alone are undoubtedly worth tuning into Lynley for.
Emma (2009)
Outside of Pride and Prejudice, if there's any other Jane Austen adaptation that's worth subscribing to BritBox for, then it's most certainly Emma. Starring Romola Garai, Jonny Lee Miller, the great Michael Gambon, and more, it's inarguably the best and most accurate book adaptation. Emma is Austen's most complex and longest story, and while there are worthy film adaptations, nothing beats the BBC miniseries's attention to the source material.
This one's especially perfect for the slow-burn romance fans and for the viewers who love well-written, profoundly thought-provoking character journeys. Austen believes that the titular character is her most unlikable, but Garai does such a brilliant job of bringing her layers to life that it becomes abundantly clear how relatable Emma is to a lot of people. More than anything, it features the most romantic Austen line delivery, and Jonny Lee Miller's version of it is unforgettable.
The Office (2001-2003)
While the American version of The Office is definitely better and more accessible, the British version is worth watching at least once. The premise is relatively similar, and before Greg Daniels' version, it was a hit for a reason. It helps kickstart the idea of mockumentary comedies, and it's what helped the medium become so popular with a specific brand of sarcastic humor that adds to the charm.
On a network with a number of crime dramas, The Office can be a great reprieve for anyone wanting a comedy and something ridiculous. It's a bit more crass than the American version, and it features a lot of dry humor, yet it still manages to be entertaining all the way through. Plus, it can be fun to look for Easter eggs and similarities that make watching various versions of the same show stand out in different ways.
Sister Boniface Mysteries (2022-Present)
Like The Office, the Sister Boniface Mysteries is an excellently crafted and lighthearted show in a streamer full of darker narratives. It's perfect for any viewers who are into crime dramas but are in the mood for something lighter. Instead of the average detective, we've got a delightful and charming nun taking the reins.
British comedian Lorna Watson consistently delivers one excellent and hilarious performance after another, allowing the character to become someone who'll easily be memorable years from now. It's especially well-suited for viewers who are fans of the cozy murder mysteries like Murder, She Wrote (1984), as the unconventional approach to solving crimes adds something new and refreshing. Bonus points that it also takes place in a small village, ridiculously titled Great Slaughter.
