Poldark presented audiences with something completely different relative to what we’d expect from a period drama. We’re not sure whether it’s the incredible acting, Eleanor Tomlinson’s hypnotizing eyes or Aidon Turner’s deep voice, but this show is worthy of all the accolades we as a society can bestow upon a TV show. Unfortunately, with the fifth season seeming to mark the end of Poldark, fans of the show will have to look elsewhere for solace.
And even though re-watching the five seasons over and over again is a good solution, we have something else to help you out. It’s only been a couple of months since the show wrapped up, but you’re probably feeling a period-drama shaped hole forming in your heart. This is why we compiled a list of ten television shows to watch if you absolutely love Poldark!
Updated April 13th, 2020 by Mariana Fernandes: The void left by Poldark is one hard to fill. Fans of historical British dramas are now lost as to what to do - and watch - without Poldark and Demelza there to fulfill their wishes. And we can bet that you’ve been through most of the shows on this list already…but thankfully, we live in the Gold Age of television. Meaning that there are plenty of other series that you can binge-watch and make your Poldark-loving heart happy once more!
The White Queen (2013)
Even though it takes place quite a few centuries before Poldark, The White Queen is still worth a watch. Offering stellar performances from Rebecca Ferguson, Amanda Hale, and Max Irons, the show is a treat for lovers of British television.
Following the story of Elizabeth Woodville back in the 15th century, this 10-episode miniseries is a bite-sized, binge-worthy delicacy full of drama, suspense, and even a little witchcraft thrown in the mix. While there are many liberties taken where historical accuracy is concerned, it will delight even the sternest of historians.
The Paradise (2012)
A little bit further than Poldark’s historical setting arrives BBC’s The Paradise, a 16-episode drama that will captivate those who simply can’t live without some good old fashioned historical shows.
Following country girl Denise as takes a job at The Paradise, one of the biggest department stores in the country, this Primetime Emmy nominated show is a must for those who long for the days of hard-working British people back in the day.
Land Girls (2009)
Land Girls bring the extra female power that Poldark sometimes lacked, even with the presence of the fiery Demelza and the questionable Elizabeth. It takes place during World War II and it dares to go where other shows hadn’t gone in the past.
With fifteen episodes spanning three seasons, Land Girls will leave any viewer wanting more, as they go through the motions and hardships alongside the Women’s Land Army members who struggle in all areas of life against the backdrop of a violent war.
Home Fires (2015)
Unfortunately, Home Fires only lasted for two seasons with twelve episodes in total, but the incredible content makes up for what he show lacks in quantity. Once again, we meet a group of women living during World War II.
Only this time around, this inspirational and awe-inducing trio of protagonists introduces us to the ins and outs of surviving in a rural Cheshire community while the world is ravaged by war. The tear-jerking potential is real, so bring tissues!
Mr. Selfridge (2013)
Is the struggling, self-made man narrative what you’re missing the most about Poldark? Then Mr. Selfridge is exactly what the doctor ordered! Based on real events and the story behind the founder of Selfridge’s, this cheerful and yet heartbreaking show is the one for you.
Even though it lacks the British charm that characterizes most of the other series on this list, it brings to the table fantastic performances, mind-blowing sets, and A+ dialogue. With forty episodes to go around, you might want to grab some snacks!
Little Dorrit (2008)
It will probably come as little surprise to you that most of the television series featured on this list are novel adaptations, much like Poldark itself. And we kick off our suggestions with Golden Globe-nominated Little Dorrit, aptly named after the Charles Dickens novel it’s inspired by.
Themes like social class and romance are explored in-depth, which is why fans of Poldark will find this an absolute treat. Plus, it stars some of the most talented British actors of our generation, including Claire Foy and Mathew Macfadyen in the lead roles. Can you image those electric romantic scenes?
Wuthering Heights (2009)
If we’re talking about literature classics, we simply have to talk about Wuthering Heights. This English masterpiece has been adapted to both the big and small screen dozens of times, with each adaptation giving us something new and unique. We suggest you dip your toes into the 2009 version.
It stars none other than Tom Hardy himself as the infamous Heathcliff, in one of the best performances of his life. Plus, Hardy and Charlotte Riley, the actress who plays Cathy, fell in love during filming and have been married for years since. You can imagine how insane the chemistry is!
Jane Eyre (2006)
Yet another fabulous 19th-century classic, Jane Eyre has also been the target of endless movies and TV show adaptations over the years. However, most fans and scholars will agree that the 2006 version is the best one to date, mostly due to how faithful it is to the source material.
The grim and dark feel of the show will feel familiar to fans of Poldark, much like Jane and Rochester’s rocky relationship. The performances are a delight, and even though it’s a miniseries, it’s definitely worth a watch. It will instantly quench your thirst for period dramas!
Victoria (2016)
Moving on to something a little more royal, the award-winning series Victoria is a must-watch for fans of the genre. It’s probably the kind of show that has been on your radar for a few years or months, but you simply didn’t get around to start watching it. Well, there’s no time like the present!
There’s no questioning the quality of the show, with several nominations under its sleeve. The costumes and sets are breathtaking, and the take on Queen Victoria’s early life is something fans didn’t know they needed until it finally hit the screens.
Reign (2013)
Reign might have dozens of historic inaccuracies, but if you’re in it for pure entertainment value, then you’ll definitely get your money’s worth. Shows that depict the lives of royals in the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries also take a fair share of creative liberties, but in this case, we don’t really care.
The storylines might feel absurd at times, but they’re definitely gripping and you’ll find yourself incredibly invested in the life and love stories of Mary, Queen of Scots. Plus, the costumes are completely out of this world, and the soundtrack is a delight.
The Musketeers (2014)
How many iterations of Alexandre Dumas’ classic have we seen been played over the course of time? Well, plenty. But people can’t help but love the three musketeers, especially when they come in such an alluring package as they do in the 2011 adaptation The Musketeers.
With three seasons to go around, plenty of good-looking and talented actors and actresses, and the true feel of 17th-century Paris, fans of Poldark will find themselves completely hooked on this show.
And Then There Were None (2015)
Agatha Christie remains, to this day, one of the most successful writers of all time, mostly thanks to her mind’s creation, Detective Hercule Poirot. However, Christie also had other tricks up her sleeve, often coming up with thrilling and fear-inducing tales such as And Then There Were None.
This particular three-episode adaptation actually stars Aidan Turner, Poldark himself, in a role like we’ve never seen before. Not only will the sight of Turner sooth your heart, but the compelling mystery set in the late 1930s will also have you on the edge of your seat.
The Woman In White (2018)
Wilkie Collins honestly doesn’t get enough appreciation. Granted, he didn’t produce as many works during his lifetime as many of the other novel/mystery writers did, but The Woman In White has to be one of the greatest works that fall into the genre. And much like the book itself, the 2018 adaptation will shock and terrify you.
It has everything you’d look for in a show like this - romance, drama, and mistery, all against the magical backdrop of 19th-century countryside England.
Pride And Prejudice (1995)
We’re willing to bet that, regardless of your age, you’ve heard about Pride And Prejudice. Much like classics Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights, Jane Austen’s most famous work has been subject to endless adaptations, all completely different from each other, yet keeping the story’s essence.
Well, we recommend you take a shot at BBC’s 1995 adaptation. Not only does it do a wonderful job of portraying Austen’s 18th-century England, it stars Colin Firth as the elusive Mr. Darcy. The romance and the social hierarchy conversation are all there, along with some very interesting costumes.
Downton Abbey (2010)
What better way to forget about the pain caused by the end of Poldark than to finally embrace Downton Abbey, a show which is perhaps one of the most compelling and lovable portrayals of social class disparity in the early 20th century? With three Golden Globe wins, a six-season run, and a movie, there’s no denying the quality of the show.
There’s more than enough drama and romance to around, in quantities that rival even those we witnessed in Poldark. If you haven’t yet, then make sure you give Downton Abbey a shot - it deserves the attention!
Next: Downton Abbey: 5 Best Couples (& 5 Pairings Fans Hated)