Fans of strong female-led detective dramas like Vera and coastal mysteries such as Beyond Paradise are discovering a new favourite in Whitstable Pearl, a British crime series based on Julie Wassmer's novels. The show follows former police officer-turned-private detective Pearl Nolan, played by Kerry Godliman, who runs a seafood restaurant in the coastal town of Whitstable. When a friend dies under suspicious circumstances, Pearl clashes with a new detective in the area.
Fans Compare Whitstable Pearl to Vera and Father Brown
The series originally aired on Acorn TV and is now available to stream for free on U. On IMDb, viewers have praised the show, with one fan writing: 'I thought this was a really enjoyable show! Three episodes in and hope they do more. I found it just as entertaining as Father Brown, Vera or Shetland... everything doesn't have to be as deep as Broadchurch to be entertaining.' Another echoed: 'I really like this show. It is in the vein of Vera, Father Brown, etc and if you do not like those, you will not like this. I find that it is similar with a hint of sadness running through it.'
Unique Style and Setting Win Over Viewers
One viewer hailed the series as 'unique', stating: 'I really enjoyed the relaxed style and slow but clever build of the plotlines. There are good twists and it is not predictable. This series is a unique offering with a lot to value.' Another called it 'delightful', adding: 'Love this series. Great characters and interesting locale with good story lines. This is a gem. Can't wait for more episodes.'
Three Seasons Aired, Fourth Season Uncertain
Three seasons of Whitstable Pearl have aired, with the latest concluding in November 2024. The show has not yet been officially renewed for a fourth season by Acorn TV or U&Drama, but fans remain hopeful. The cast includes Howard Charles as DCI Mike McGuire, a gruff police detective from London, and Frances Barber as Dolly Nolan, Pearl's widowed mother and co-manager of the restaurant. Pearl is a single mother of a grown son and an ex-police officer, running the Whitstable Pearl with her mum. Whitstable Pearl is streaming now on U.
