Downton Abbey may have concluded with its third and final film, The Grand Finale, but fans of the ITV hit need not despair. Streaming platforms are brimming with overlooked period dramas that offer similar escapism and historical intrigue.
Among the top recommendations is The Gilded Age, created by Julian Fellowes, the mastermind behind Downton Abbey. Set in 1880s America, the series follows the clash between the nouveau riche Russell family and their established neighbours, the van Rhijn family. Available on NOW, it stars Carrie Coon, Harry Richardson, Cynthia Nixon and Christine Baranski. Viewers have called it 'gripping', with some even claiming it surpasses Downton Abbey.
Another standout is The Forsyte Saga, which chronicles a prosperous upper-class family across three generations during the Victorian era. Featuring Damian Lewis and Gina McKee, the 2002 series has found new life on Netflix, where audiences describe it as 'incredible' and 'phenomenal'. One Reddit user praised Lewis's 'mesmerising' performance.
For those who enjoy espionage, A Spy Among Friends offers a Cold War-era thriller. Starring Damian Lewis and Anna Maxwell Martin, the 2022 series follows MI6 operative Nicholas Elliott as he uncovers a trusted colleague's betrayal. Available on ITVX, it has been hailed as an 'excellent, intelligent spy thriller' by IMDb reviewers.
Classic fans should seek out Upstairs, Downstairs, the 1970s series set in early 1900s London. Depicting the lives of a wealthy family and their domestic staff, it draws clear parallels to Downton Abbey. Available on ITVX, it remains a beloved favourite, with viewers noting its similar 'upstairs, downstairs' dynamic.
Finally, Wolf Hall, available on BBC iPlayer, adapts Hilary Mantel's novels and dramatises the life of Thomas Cromwell. Starring Mark Rylance, Damian Lewis and Claire Foy, the series has been described as 'fascinating' and 'enthralling', with one Rotten Tomatoes reviewer calling it 'one of the best period pieces I've ever seen'.
