Before Call the Midwife captivated audiences, its creator Heidi Thomas had already crafted another 'excellent' period drama. Cranford, which first aired on the BBC in 2007, is now available to stream for free on Channel4.com, offering viewers a charming escape into 1840s Cheshire.
A Delightful Period Drama
Based on Elizabeth Gaskell's novels, Cranford follows the lives of women in a small town on the brink of change. Led by the indomitable Miss Matty Jenkyns, played by Dame Judi Dench, the cast includes Imelda Staunton as Miss Pole and Julia McKenzie as Mrs Forrester. These ladies face the looming Industrial Revolution with determination and wit.
The series spans seven episodes, making it an easy and digestible watch for period drama enthusiasts. Over the course of the story, viewers witness gossip, romance, and the pressures of societal change.
Critical Acclaim
Fans have praised Cranford on platforms like IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes. One viewer called it 'Absolutely delightful!', while another described it as 'Simply Delicious.' A critic noted, 'Cranford has a remarkable cast and cracking performances.' The show has been hailed as an 'instant classic' by many.
Return to Cranford
After the success of the first series, a two-part follow-up titled Return to Cranford aired in 2009, with Dench reprising her role as the compassionate Miss Jenkyns. Both series are now available to stream.
For fans awaiting new Call the Midwife content, including the upcoming prequel mini-series Sisters in Arms expected over Christmas 2026, Cranford provides a perfect interim fix. While Call the Midwife streams on BBC iPlayer, Cranford can be enjoyed for free on Channel4.com.
