The 100 best TV shows you can watch in under 10 hours

The issue with some of these is they have so many episodes, and run for so long - even if you binged them all back to back, it could take weeks.

Thankfully, there are other series which run for far less time, yet are no less brilliant. Think recent shows like Adolescence, or classic comedies like Fawlty Towers.

Given this, we have put together a handy guide for any TV fan hoping to find some of these quick-to-watch gems, each of which clock in at under 10 hours in total.

Read on for our full list of 100 shows you can watch in under 10 hours, which are in no particular order.

1. Normal People

Adapted from Sally Rooney’s acclaimed novel, this Irish romantic drama captivated audiences in 2020 with its intimate portrayal of young love. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal star as Marianne and Connell, two teenagers from a small Irish town whose lives intertwine as they move from school to university. As the series explores their on-off relationship, it delves into themes of class, communication and vulnerability.

2. Baby Reindeer

Richard Gadd stars in this semi-autobiographical drama as Donny Dunn, a struggling comedian whose life is upended after a chance encounter with Martha, a vulnerable woman who starts to stalk him. What begins with a moment of awkward kindness spirals into relentless harassment, as the series veers between the darkly comic and deeply harrowing. As the drama peels back layers of Donny’s own past, it stands out for its honesty and willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.

3. Adolescence

This hard-hitting four-part drama, created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, delves into the aftermath of a shocking crime. The series charts the emotional fallout that occurs after a teenage boy is accused of murdering a female classmate. Graham, who also stars in the series, delivers a powerful performance as the boy’s father, while Ashley Walters plays the investigating detective. Each episode is filmed in a single take, heightening the intensity and realism, while the series tackles themes of toxic masculinity, online activism and violence against women with unflinching honesty.

4. Masters of the Air

This epic drama, from the team behind Band of Brothers and The Pacific, follows the US 100th Bomb Group in the Second World War, who were known as the Bloody Hundredth for their heavy losses. Austin Butler and Callum Turner star as Major Gale ‘Buck’ Cleven and Major John ‘Bucky’ Egan, leading a cast that brings to life the camaraderie and peril faced by bomber crews over Europe. Produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, the series combines breathtaking aerial sequences with intimate character moments.

5. Sharp Objects

A psychological thriller based on Gillian Flynn’s novel, Sharp Objects stars Amy Adams as Camille Preaker, a troubled journalist returning to her hometown to report on a series of murders. Haunted by her own past and family secrets, Camille is drawn into a web of suspicion and trauma. Patricia Clarkson also delivers a chilling turn as Camille’s mother, while the series is notable for its atmospheric direction and slow-burn storytelling in a deeply suspenseful narrative.

6. Modern Love

Inspired by the New York Times column of the same name, Modern Love is an anthology series exploring the many facets of love in contemporary life. Each episode tells a self-contained story, with an impressive cast including Anne Hathaway, Dev Patel, Tina Fey and Andrew Scott. The show delves into romantic, platonic and familial love, often with a twist or unconventional perspective. It stands out for its relatable characters and nuanced approach to relationships, offering a mosaic of the human connection in all its messy glory.

7. Bodies

This inventive crime drama interweaves four timelines, each featuring a detective somehow investigating the same murder in London. The series jumps between 1890, 1941, 2023 and 2053, stars Shira Haas, Stephen Graham, Amaka Okafor and Kyle Soller amongst others. It has an ambitious, compelling structure, and features strong performances throughout. Bodies keeps viewers guessing, blending detective intrigue with science fiction elements for a truly original experience.

8. Chernobyl

This acclaimed miniseries dramatises the catastrophic 1986 nuclear disaster in Ukraine and its aftermath. Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård and Emily Watson all star in key roles, as the series meticulously reconstructs the disaster and the Soviet cover-up, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of those who responded to it. A chilling, often devastating watch, the drama gets to the heart of a bureaucratic failure that produced a devastating human cost.

9. The Night Manager

Adapted from John le Carré’s novel, this stylish spy thriller stars Tom Hiddleston as Jonathan Pine, a former soldier turned hotel night manager. Drawn into the world of international arms dealing, Pine infiltrates the inner circle of the charismatic but ruthless Richard Roper, played by Hugh Laurie. A brilliantly, twisty, suspenseful spy thriller, the series has recently been renewed for a second season which, when it debuts, will see this series graduate off this list. However, for now, this is still a highly bingeable, addictive watch that clocks in at under 10 hours.

10. Ripley

Adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s acclaimed novels, this 1960s-set psychological thriller follows the enigmatic Tom Ripley, played by Andrew Scott. Hired to travel to Italy and persuade the wealthy Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn) to return home, con man Ripley soon becomes entangled in a web of deceit and ambition. With stunning black and white visuals and a backdrop of sun-soaked Mediterranean glamour, this is a thriller you can really sink your teeth into.

11. The End of the F***ing World

A darkly comic road-trip drama, The End of the F***ing World centres on two misfit teenagers: James, who believes he’s a psychopath, and Alyssa, a rebellious classmate. Alex Lawther and Jessica Barden deliver standout performances as the unlikely duo who embark on a chaotic adventure across England, as the series balances pitch-black humour with heartfelt emotion. Its distinctive style, sharp dialogue, and subversive take on the coming-of-age genre have earned it cult status.

12. Bodyguard

Jed Mercurio’s gripping thriller stars Richard Madden as David Budd, a war veteran-turned-police protection officer who is assigned to safeguard Home Secretary Julia Montague, played by Keeley Hawes. As Budd grapples with PTSD, he finds a conspiracy beginning to unravel around him. Packed with tense set-pieces and shocking twists, the series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout, with a relentless pace. When it first aired in 2018, it became a national talking point, and viewers have been crying out for a second season ever since.

13. The Cry

This emotional psychological drama stars Jenna Coleman as Joanna, a young Scottish mother whose baby is abducted while she is visiting Australia. The series unravels in non-linear fashion, exploring the disintegration of Joanna’s psyche as the investigation unfolds and media scrutiny intensifies. Ewen Leslie co-stars as her husband, and gives a compelling performance, but its Coleman who is the real star here, providing one of her best turns to date.

14. The Haunting of Hill House

This modern reimagining of Shirley Jackson’s classic novel follows the fractured Crain family, haunted by both literal and figurative ghosts. The story shifts between past and present, revealing the events that drove the family from the sinister Hill House. The ensemble cast includes Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen and Carla Gugino, and the series has been celebrated for its atmospheric horror, as well as its intricate storytelling and its exploration of grief and trauma.

15. Maniac

This mind-bending limited series stars Emma Stone and Jonah Hill as Annie and Owen, two strangers who meet during a mysterious pharmaceutical drug trial. As the experiment unfolds, their realities fracture, plunging them into surreal dreamscapes and alternate lives. Directed with visual flair, the series blends science fiction, dark comedy and psychological drama, while Stone and Hill’s chemistry anchors the narrative.

16. The Stranger

This twisty thriller, based on Harlan Coben’s novel, stars Richard Armitage as Adam Price, an ordinary man whose life is upended when a mysterious stranger reveals a devastating secret about his wife. The propulsive eight-part series also stars Hannah John-Kamen, Siobhan Finneran and Jennifer Saunders, and was a huge hit for Netflix in 2020.

17. The Trial of Christine Keeler

This period drama revisits the infamous Profumo Affair of the early 1960s, which rocked the British establishment. Sophie Cookson stars as Christine Keeler, a young woman at the centre of a political scandal involving government minister John Profumo and Soviet attaché Yevgeny Ivanov. James Norton and Emilia Fox co-star.

18. The Serpent

Based on chilling true events, The Serpent stars Tahar Rahim as Charles Sobhraj, a charismatic serial killer who preyed on Western travellers across Asia in the 1970s. Jenna Coleman plays his partner Marie-Andrée Leclerc, who was an accomplice to his crimes, while the series also follows Dutch diplomat Herman Knippenberg, played by Billy Howle, as he doggedly pursues Sobhraj.

19. The Pale Horse

Set in 1961, this Agatha Christie adaptation from Sarah Phelps stars Rufus Sewell as Mark Easterbrook, whose name appears on a mysterious list found in a dead woman’s shoe. As more deaths occur, Mark starts on a terrifying investigation, which draws him towards a village enrapt by superstition, and into a world of witchcraft and paranoia. Mark believes himself to be a rational man - but can he keep his grip on reality and get to the heart of the mystery, even when all else suggests something supernatural is afoot?

20. The War of the Worlds

This three-part 2019 BBC adaptation of HG Wells’s iconic novel transports viewers to Edwardian England, where a Martian invasion threatens humanity’s survival. Eleanor Tomlinson and Rafe Spall lead the cast as a couple fighting to stay together amidst chaos and destruction, in this series which has been written by Doctor Who's Peter Harness.

21. Gunpowder

Kit Harington stars as Robert Catesby in this historical drama about the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. Peter Mullan, Mark Gatiss and Liv Tyler co-star in what is a tense retelling of the Catholic conspirators’ attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament. The series is notable for its gritty realism, as it delves into the motivations behind the plot and explores in full the pivotal moment in British history.

22. The ABC Murders

John Malkovich takes on the role of Hercule Poirot in this adaptation of Agatha Christie’s classic novel. Set in 1930s Britain, the story follows Poirot as he hunts a serial killer who leaves a copy of the ABC railway guide at each of their crime scenes. The series adds psychological depth to Poirot, exploring his past and vulnerabilities, while the supporting cast includes Rupert Grint and Anya Chalotra.

23. The Salisbury Poisonings

This gripping drama from 2020 recounts the 2018 Novichok poisoning in Salisbury, focusing on the ordinary people at the centre of the crisis. Anne-Marie Duff stars as Tracy Daszkiewicz, the local public health official who leads the response, while Rafe Spall and Annabel Scholey also play key figures, The series highlights the heroism and resilience of the community as they face an unprecedented emergency, and treats the tragic real-life events with a warranted degree of sensitivity.

24. A Very English Scandal

Hugh Grant and Ben Whishaw star in this historical drama based on the true story of Jeremy Thorpe, the 1970s Liberal Party leader accused of conspiring to murder his former lover, Norman Scott. The series blends political satire with courtroom drama, exploring themes of power, secrecy and societal attitudes towards homosexuality.

25. A Very British Scandal

This follow-up to A Very English Scandal stars Claire Foy as Margaret Campbell, Duchess of Argyll, whose divorce became a sensation in 1960s Britain, while Paul Bettany co-stars as the Duke. The series explores the media frenzy and public shaming faced by the Duchess, and offers a fascinating look at a society in transition.

26. A Very Royal Scandal

This series arrived in the same year as Scoop, a Netflix film exploring the exact same story - however, this three-parter is definitely the superior of the two. It stars Ruth Wilson and Michael Sheen, and explores the events leading up to and following the infamous 2019 Newsnight interview between Emily Maitlis and Prince Andrew. It's a compelling watch, which aims to get to the heart of a media storm, and, when it comes to Andrew, understand the man behind the title.

27. Mr Bates vs the Post Office

This four-part ITV drama blew audiences away when it first debuted in 2024, and had a real, tangible effect on Government policy and British society. It tells the true story of one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in British legal history, the Post Office scandal, which saw hundreds of subpostmasters and mistresses across the UK being falsely accused of theft, fraud, and false accounting due to a defective IT system. Toby Jones, Monica Dolan , Julie Hesmondhalgh, Alex Jennings and Will Mellor are among those who lead the ensemble cast.

28. Fool Me Once

This psychological thriller, based on a novel by Harlan Coben, stars Michelle Keegan as Maya, a widow who begins to question everything when she spots her supposedly dead husband on a nanny cam. As she investigates, secrets unravel and danger mounts. The series also stars Adeel Akhtar, Richard Armitage and Joanna Lumley and was a huge hit for Netflix upon its debut.

29. Toxic Town

This four-part drama from Jack Thorne brings attention to the Corby poisonings case, where several mothers fought for justice after their babies were born with birth defects linked to hazardous waste. Jodie Whittaker, Aimee Lou Wood, Claudia Jessie and Karla Crome star as just some of the women at the heart of the story and the series, like Mr Bates before it, has been praised for shining a light on a very real issue, while also acting as a heart-breaking and inspiring drama in its own right.

30. After Life

This comedy-drama series from Ricky Gervais sees the actor, writer and comedian play Tony, a local journalist struggling with overwhelming grief following the death of his wife. After Life blends dark, caustic comedy with heartfelt drama, as Tony’s bitterness gives way to unexpected moments of kindness and connection. The series, which ran for three seasons, also stars the likes of Penelope Wilton and Diane Morgan.

31. The Walk-In

This drama tells the real-life story of Matthew Collins, a former far-right activist who now works to prevent radicalisation. Stephen Graham stars as Collins, and we follow the story of how he infiltrated British neo-Nazi terrorist group National Action, and foiled an assassination plot against an MP. A timely and gripping story, the series also benefits hugely by Graham's enormous talents and clear dedication to the role.

32. Missing You

This Harlan Coben thriller follows Detective Inspector Kat Donovan, played by Rosalind Eleazar, who one day finds her fiancé, who has been missing for 10 years on a dating app. As she tries to uncover the truth, it leads her into a web of secrets, lies, and danger, where she must confront her own past and the possibility that her fiancé may not be who she thought.

33. Everything I Know About Love

Based on Dolly Alderton’s memoir, this coming-of-age drama follows a group of female friends navigating love, heartbreak, and adulthood in London. Emma Appleton stars as Maggie, whose adventures and misadventures form the heart of the series, while Bel Powley plays Birdy, her friend who enters into a serious relationship for the first time. The show captures the highs and lows of friendship, the messiness of relationships, and the search for identity in your 20s.

34. Champion

Set in the world of British rap and grime, Champion follows the rivalry between two siblings vying for musical success. Déja J Bowens and Malcolm Kamulete star as Vita and Bosco Champion, whose ambitions threaten to tear their family apart. The series features a vibrant soundtrack and dynamic performances, and offers an authentic look at the UK music scene.

35. Fleabag

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s groundbreaking comedy-drama centres on a sharp-tongued, emotionally complex woman navigating life, love and loss in London. Waller-Bridge stars as the titular Fleabag, whose direct-to-camera asides create a unique bond with viewers. The series has been celebrated for its wit and honesty, as well as its strong performances from the cast, including supporting characters played by the likes of Sian Clifford and Olivia Colman. Fleabag’s blend of comedy and tragedy, innovative storytelling and unforgettable characters have made it a modern classic, resonating with audiences worldwide.

36. The Office

This mockumentary sitcom, created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, revolutionised British comedy with its cringe-inducing humour and painfully relatable characters. Set in the mundane world of office life, The Office follows David Brent (Gervais), the deluded manager of the Wernham Hogg paper company, and his long-suffering staff. Some fans may be more familiar with the US version starring Steve Carrell, but if so they should definitely revisit this short-lived but perfectly formed comedy masterpiece.

37. This Country

This mockumentary follows cousins Kerry and Kurtan Mucklowe, played by Daisy May Cooper and Charlie Cooper, as they navigate life in a small Cotswolds village. The hilarious series captures the boredom, eccentricity and humour of rural England, with a cast of oddball characters and deadpan comedy, and deservedly helped to propel both of its leads and creators to stardom.

38. This Time with Alan Partridge

Steve Coogan returns as Alan Partridge, the inept and oblivious broadcaster, in this spoof of magazine-style television like The One Show. Alan is given another shot at live TV, co-hosting a show alongside Susannah Fielding’s Jennie Gresham, with his trademark awkwardness, misplaced confidence and social faux pas on full display across 12 brilliant episodes.

39. The Bombing of Pan Am 103

This gripping drama recounts the events surrounding the 1988 terrorist attack on Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. The series focuses on the investigation, the impact on the victims’ families, and the search for justice. With a strong ensemble cast, The Bombing of Pan Am 103 explores the personal and political ramifications of the tragedy, and has been praised for its sensitive handling of the real events.

40. The Listeners

This offbeat psychological drama stars Rebecca Hall as Claire, an English teacher whose life is disrupted when she begins to hear a mysterious humming sound that no one else can detect. As Claire searches for answers, she forms an unlikely bond with a student who shares her experience, and they then meet a whole group of people who claim they can provide guidance as to what it all means. The series explores themes of isolation, connection, conspiracy and the limits of understanding, and is a truly atmospheric, unique and thought-provoking watch.

41. Towards Zero

This Agatha Christie adaptation tells a detective story from a different angle, spending plenty of time setting up a host of grievances before murder is even mentioned. It sees a recently divorced couple arranging to holiday together, along with the ex-husband Neville's new wife, at their childhood retreat, a seaside estate. When a murder eventually does occur, so many resentments have been set-up that the story will truly keep you guessing, until a mostly-satisfying final reveal.

42. Extras

Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant reunite for this comedy about Andy Millman, a struggling background actor desperate for a break. Gervais plays Andy, an extra who across the episodes encounters self-absorbed celebrities, with guest stars including Kate Winslet, Samuel L Jackson and Daniel Radcliffe gamely sending themselves up. The series skewers the entertainment industry, as Andy's eventual successes bring about their own dilemmas.

43. Shardlake

Arthur Hughes stars in this historical crime drama as Matthew Shardlake, a barrister and investigator with scoliosis, living in Tudor England. Tasked by Thomas Cromwell (Sean Bean) to solve a murder at a remote monastery, Shardlake and his assigned companion Jack Barak (Anthony Boyle) find themselves entering a world of political intrigue, during a time of religious upheaval. It may have only run for one season, but this is a compelling historical drama, the likes of which we hope to see more of.

44. Renegade Nell

Louisa Harland leads this rollicking fantasy adventure as Nell Jackson, an 18th-century highwaywoman with a supernatural twist. Guided by the mischievous sprite Billy Blind (Nick Mohammed), Nell battles corrupt aristocrats and uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the kingdom. The series was written by Sally Wainwright, who shakes off her Happy Valley blues for something very different, yet still very engaging here.

45. Out There

Martin Clunes and Louis Ashbourne-Serkis star in this thriller series about a farmer who has to protect his son when he has a run-in with county lines drug dealing. The series explores a host of real-life issues concerning rural life in the 2020s, yet never forgets that, at its heart, its a thriller, meaning there are plenty of twists and turns along the way. It's a gripping six-part series, and though it was unfortunately cancelled earlier this year, it is still well worth a watch.

46. Des

David Tennant delivers a chilling performance as Dennis Nilsen, one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers, in this true-crime drama. The series focuses on Nilsen’s arrest, confession, and the investigation that followed, exploring the impact on detectives, victims’ families, and the public. The drama is gripping and thought-provoking, and well worth a watch if only for Tennant's incredible work as the title character.

47. A Confession

Martin Freeman stars in this true crime drama as Detective Superintendent Steve Fulcher, a man who risked his own career and breaching police protocal in order to catch a killer. The series follows Fulcher’s investigation into the disappearance of Sian O’Callaghan, exploring the ethical dilemmas and personal sacrifices involved in the pursuit of justice.

48. Under the Banner of Heaven

Andrew Garfield stars in this crime drama inspired by true events, playing a detective whose faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is tested as he investigates a brutal murder within the devout religious community. Daisy Edgar-Jones, Wyatt Russell and Sam Worthington also star, in a series which is as much about the horrendous crime at its centre as it is exploring its questions surrounding religion and faith.

49. The Long Shadow

This drama revisits the real-life hunt for the Yorkshire Ripper, focusing on the victims, their families, and the police officers involved in the case. With a cast led by Toby Jones and David Morrissey, The Long Shadow offers a sensitive exploration of the real events, and how the police investigation failed at so many turns to bring about swift and meaningful justice. It is a powerful, thought-provoking account of a dark chapter in British history.

50. Manhunt (2019)

This dark, true-crime drama series stars Martin Clunes as Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton, and follows the investigations he leads into high-profile cases. The series, which features some astonishing yet understated performances, has been praised for its procedural realism and focus on the painstaking work of police detectives.

51. Joan

Sophie Turner plays jewel thief Joan Hannington, in this series which sees her go from from housewife and mother to criminal mastermind. The drama has style to spare, as it explores 1980s London, but also a nuanced and rich character study at its heart, as it looks to explore the character beyond the headlines, fleshing out her personality and struggles.

52. The Hunt for Raoul Moat

This tense drama brings to life the manhunt for Raoul Moat, who went on the run in Northumberland in 2010 after shooting three people. The series explores the real-life events that gripped the nation, focusing on the police officers, journalists and members of the public caught up in the search, deftly avoiding shining a spotlight on the perpetrator.

53. The Consultant

In this darkly satirical thriller, a mysterious consultant arrives at a struggling company and quickly exerts a sinister influence over the staff. The series shifts wildly between its comedic and more serious tones to great effect, keeping viewers off-balance even before many of the enormous twists and turns in the narrative come. Christoph Waltz leads the cast with an exceptional performance, leaning into what he does best.

54. Why Didn't They Ask Evans?

Adapted from Agatha Christie’s classic novel, this stylish mystery directed by Hugh Laurie follows amateur sleuths Bobby Jones and Lady Frances Derwent, played by Will Poulter and Lucy Boynton, as they investigate a suspicious death on the Welsh coast. The pair are drawn into a web of secrets, lies, and danger as they attempt to uncover the truth behind the cryptic question, asked by the victim just before he died: "Why didn’t They Ask Evans?"

55. Wedding Season

This romantic comedy-thriller follows Stefan (Gavin Drea), a man who objects at the wedding of Katie (Rosa Salazar), a woman he has been having an affair with at various weddings. She rejects him, but when her new inlaws end up poisoned, the two of them must go on the run - even if he is deeply suspicious of her. It all makes for a fun blend genres, and a fast paced road trip with plenty of questions to be answered across the episodes.

56. Without Sin

Starring Vicky McClure, this psychological drama centres on a grieving mother who is invited to meet the man convicted of murdering her daughter, played by Johnny Harris. The series, which explores themes of guilt, forgiveness and the search for closure, is bolstered by the stunning lead performances.

57. The Stolen Girl

This twisting, turning thriller stars Denise Gough as the mother of a girl who is abducted from a sleepover with a new friend, while Holliday Grainger plays the woman who abducted her. The episodes deliver fresh surprises at a rapid rate, as we learn more about Grainger's character and why she did what she did. Grainger puts in an astonishing performance, while Gough is also strong, as character who is also hiding plenty of her own secrets.

58. Devs

Nick Offerman stars in this unique, cerebral sci-fi series from Alex Garland, playing the enigmatic head of a secretive tech company. The story follows a young software engineer who investigates the mysterious disappearance of her boyfriend, leading her to find out just what the company is doing - and the lengths it will go to to protect its secrets. The series is visually striking, with a haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking philosophical undertones.

59. Say Nothing

This historical drama series explored the Troubles in Belfast, exploring life in the city from the 1970s to the 1990s. It particularly charts the story surrounding the murder of Jean McConville, and follows Dolours and Marian Price. Starring Lola Petticrew and Hazel Doupe, the series is a well-researched, detailed examination of the period and some of the central figures involved in the Troubles.

60. Undone

This innovative animated series, from the team behind BoJack Horseman, uses rotoscope technology to tell the story of Alma, a young woman played by Rosa Salazar who begins experiencing visions of her dead father after a near-fatal car accident. He tells her she has the power to travel in time - but is she having a mental episode or is it all true? The narrative weaves together elements of science fiction and psychological drama, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience.

61. My Lady Jane

Set in an alternate Tudor England, My Lady Jane reimagines the story of Lady Jane Grey if she survived, while also adding a fantastical twist. The series, which stars Emily Bader and Edward Bluemel, was sadly cancelled after one season, but gained a dedicated fan base during that time, thinks to its irreverent tone and compelling characters and worldbuilding.

62. Three Pines

Alfred Molina stars as Chief Inspector Armand Gamache in this atmospheric crime drama set in a picturesque Quebec village. When a series of murders disrupt the tranquillity of Three Pines, Gamache must use his keen intuition and empathy to uncover the truth. The series is notable for its richly drawn characters and sense of place, with the village itself almost becoming a character.

63. Patrick Melrose

Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a tour-de-force performance as Patrick Melrose, a troubled aristocrat battling addiction and trauma. Based on the semi-autobiographical novels by Edward St Aubyn, the series charts Patrick’s journey from a dysfunctional childhood to adulthood, exploring themes of family, privilege, and self-destruction. The show is both darkly comic and deeply moving, with sharp writing and striking visuals. Cumberbatch’s portrayal captures the complexity of a man struggling to overcome his demons, making Patrick Melrose a standout character study.

64. Deadwater Fell

David Tennant stars in this gripping crime drama set in a small Scottish village, as man whose wife and children are killed in a devastating fire. As suspicion falls upon him, we learn more about Tennant's character Tom, and uncover that the seemingly idyllic life he and his family led was anything but. Tennant puts in a bravura performance, keeping us guessing throughout, while Cush Jumbo and Matthew McNulty are also impressive in supporting roles.

65. Litvinenko

This true-crime drama recounts the poisoning of former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko in London. The series follows the investigation led by determined detectives, as well as the personal struggles of Litvinenko's family as they try to expose the truth and bring about justice. David Tennant, Margarita Levieva, Mark Bonnar and Neil Maskell are exceptional in their roles, and the drama itself is both informative and quietly powerful.

66. Big Boys

Jack Rooke’s semi-autobiographical comedy-drama follows Jack (Dylan Llewellyn), a shy and closeted university fresher, as he forms an unlikely friendship with mature student Danny (Jon Pointing), who is on the other end of the scale of masculinity. A comedy a emotional as it is hilarious, with deeply specific yet endearing references, it captures the awkwardness and excitement of coming-of-age, while tackling serious subjects with sensitivity and optimism.

67. The Inbetweeners

This beloved comedy follows four socially awkward friends – Will, Simon, Jay and Neil – as they navigate the trials of Sixth Form at a comprehensive school. With Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, James Buckley and Blake Harrison in the main roles, the series is known for its crude humour, memorable lines, and painfully relatable situations, delivering laugh-out-loud moments alongside genuine insight into growing up.

68. Somewhere Boy

This poignant drama tells the story of Danny, a teenager raised in isolation by his father after the tragic death of his mother, and led to believe that the world outside in uninhabitable. When Danny is suddenly thrust into the outside world, he must confront the realities of life and the secrets his father kept from him. Lewis Gribben gives an impressive central performance in this slight yet compelling drama.

69. The Gathering

Set in a close-knit community, The Gathering follows a group of friends whose lives are upended by a shocking event. The series unravels the mystery through multiple perspectives, gradually revealing hidden connections and long-buried secrets. The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, as the series delves into social issues alongside its central mystery, which bubbles away underneath.

70. Back

David Mitchell and Robert Webb reunite in this dark-comedy series about Stephen, a man who inherits his family’s pub after his father’s death, only to have his life disrupted by the return of Andrew, a man claiming to be his former foster brother. Andrew quickly becomes a hit with Stephen's family, but Stephen becomes increasingly paranoid about his intentions and whether he really is who he says he is.

71. Peacock

This offbeat comedy from some of the team behind People Just Do Nothing centres on Andy Peacock, a personal trainer in a small town who becomes obsessed with maintaining his status as the top instructor at his gym. As new competition threatens his position, Andy resorts to increasingly desperate measures to stay ahead.

72. Derry Girls

Set in 1990s Northern Ireland, Derry Girls follows a group of teenagers – Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle and James – living in Derry against the backdrop of the Troubles. Starring Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Nicola Coughlan, Louisa Harland, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell and Dylan Llewellyn, the series combines sharp wit with heartfelt moments, and perfectly blends its exploration of real-life issues and historical contexts with well-drawn, often hilarious characters.

73. Spaced

Simon Pegg and Jessica Hynes (née Stevenson) star in this cult comedy about two strangers who pretend to be a couple in order to rent a flat together. It's the series through which the world got to know Edgar Wright, and thus features a number of his trademarks, including fast-paced editing and pop culture references. Featuring surreal humour, and a game supporting cast such as Nick Frost and Julia Deakin, Spaced really is a one-of-a-kind watch.

74. Black Bird

Inspired by true events, Black Bird stars Taron Egerton as Jimmy Keene, a convicted drug dealer who is offered a chance at freedom if he can elicit a confession from a suspected serial killer in prison. The psychological thriller delves into the mind games between Keene and the killer, Larry Hall, who is played with chilling intensity by Paul Walter Hauser.

75. The Night Of

This acclaimed crime drama stars Riz Ahmed as Nasir 'Naz' Khan, a young man accused of murder in New York City. The series follows Naz’s journey through the criminal justice system, exploring issues of race, class and the presumption of innocence. John Turturro co-stars as Naz’s world-weary lawyer, while the rest of the cast includes Michael Kenneth Williams and Bill Camp.

76. Manhunt (2024)

This historical drama/crime thriller is set predominantly in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln's assassination by John Wilkes Booth, played here by Anthony Boyle. In the wake of the murder, we follow the president’s secretary of war, Edwin Stanton, played by Tobias Menzies, as he is tasked with leading the hunt for Booth and his conspirators. Rich in historical detail and filled with exceptional performances, it's a series both for history buffs and newcomers to the story alike.

77. Still Up

This charming comedy-drama revolves around two insomniac friends, played by Craig Roberts and Antonia Thomas, who keep each other company during sleepless nights. Through late-night conversations, they share their hopes, fears and everyday struggles, developing a deep connection despite never meeting in person.

78. The Regime

Set in a fictional European country, The Regime is a political satire that stars Kate Winslet as a brutal, authoritarian chancellor, who gradually finds that her authority is slipping away, and could disappear entirely, as social unrest explodes. As well as Winslet's Elena, the series also follows a cast of ambitious politicians and scheming advisers, including Matthias Schoenaerts's Herbert Zubak, a disgraced soldier who becomes Elena's most trusted advisor.

79. Mare of Easttown

Kate Winslet stars as Mare Sheehan, a small-town detective investigating a brutal murder while grappling with personal demons and attempting to unpick the community's secrets. Winslet’s nuanced performance anchors the show, but she is also supported by a strong ensemble cast. The show deftly balances suspense with emotional depth, exploring some complex themes while also providing a gripping mystery.

80. The Queen's Gambit

Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a mesmerising performance as Beth Harmon, a chess prodigy navigating the male-dominated world of competitive chess in the 1960s, in this acclaimed period drama. The series charts Beth’s rise to fame, her struggles with addiction and her quest for self-acceptance - few thought that chess could ever be this intense of exciting, but this series really does make it both thrilling and accessible, even to newcomers.

81. Dopesick

This hard-hitting drama examines the origins and impact of America’s opioid crisis, focusing on the pharmaceutical companies, doctors and families affected by addiction. Michael Keaton leads an ensemble cast as a compassionate doctor caught in the web of corporate greed and regulatory failure. The series interweaves multiple storylines, highlighting the human cost of the epidemic and the systemic failures that allowed it to flourish.

82. Conversations with Friends

Based on Sally Rooney’s novel of the same name, this intimate drama follows Frances (Alison Oliver) and Bobbi (Sasha Lane), two university students whose lives become entwined with an older married couple, Melissa (Jemima Kirke) and Nick (Joe Alwyn). It might not have been as acclaimed or beloved as Normal People, but this series still provides some real insight into its characters, who are brought to life deftly by the strong cast.

83. Living with Yourself

Paul Rudd stars in this dark comedy as Miles, a man who undergoes an experimental treatment which offers to give him a better life. However, he soon releases that he's been replaced by a clone, a better version of himself. As Miles grapples with his existential crisis and battles his doppelgänger for control of his life, the series blends humour, sci-fi and psychological drama.

84. When They See Us

Ava DuVernay’s powerful miniseries tells the true story of the Central Park Five, five Black and Latino teenagers who were wrongfully convicted of assault in 1989 New York. The series chronicles their arrest, interrogation, trial and eventual exoneration, highlighting the systemic racism and injustice they faced.

85. The Sixth Commandment

Based on real events, The Sixth Commandment explores the chilling manipulation and betrayal at the heart of a shocking crime. The series follows the relationship between an elderly academic and a charismatic younger man, whose intentions become increasingly sinister. Through meticulous storytelling and strong performances from Timothy Spall, Anne Reid and Éanna Hardwicke, the show does justice to the story and its victims, and is a deeply engaging watch throughout.

86. Lessons in Chemistry

Set in the 1960s, this drama follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant scientist played by Brie Larson who faces sexism and discrimination in her quest to pursue a career in chemistry. When she is forced to become a TV cooking show host, Elizabeth uses her platform to challenge societal norms and inspire women to pursue their ambitions.

87. Clark

This stylish Swedish crime drama is inspired by the life of Clark Olofsson, a notorious criminal whose exploits captivated the public and brought about the term 'Stockholm syndrome'. The series, which stars a never-better Bill Skarsgård, blends fact and fiction, chronicling Clark’s audacious heists, prison escapes and complex relationships while throwing some outlandish sequences into the mix.

88. Red Rose

In this contemporary thriller, a group of teenagers in Bolton become the targets of a mysterious app that manipulates and threatens them. As the friends try to uncover the app’s origins, they are drawn into a web of secrets, danger, and paranoia. With a talented young cast and a tense, atmospheric script, Red Rose is a timely and gripping cautionary tale.

89. The Wrong Mans

James Corden and Mathew Baynton star as two ordinary council workers who become unwittingly embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy after answering a ringing phone at a crash site. Combines action, suspense and comedy, the series follows the hapless duo as they navigate a series of escalating threats and misunderstandings, constantly getting themselves in deeper the more they try and get out.

90. Rev

Tom Hollander stars as Adam Smallbone, an inner-city vicar struggling to balance the demands of his parish, his marriage and his own sense of faith. The series blends comedy and drama, and gives a complex look at the modern-day realities of being a vicar, as opposed to the way they have traditionally been portrayed. Also starring in the series is Olivia Colman, who plays Adam’s supportive but long-suffering wife.

91. It's a Sin

Russell T Davies’s acclaimed drama follows a group of friends living in London during the 1980s as the AIDS crisis unfolds. The series captures the vibrancy and joy of the group's life, while also never ignoring the tragedy and heartbreak of the crisis they are facing. It's a drama led by an outstanding ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Olly Alexander, Nathaniel Curtis, Lydia West, Neil Patrick Harris and Stephen Fry.

92. This Way Up

Aisling Bea stars as Áine, a woman recovering from a "teeny little nervous breakdown", in this sharp and heartfelt comedy. As Áine, who teaches English as a second language, starts to rebuild her life, she navigates relationships with her protective sister (played by Sharon Horgan), her students and romantic interests. The series balances laugh-out-loud moments with sensitive explorations of mental health and loneliness.

93. Black Books

Dylan Moran, Bill Bailey and Tamsin Greig star in this cult sitcom set in a chaotic second-hand bookshop run by the misanthropic Bernard Black. The series is known for its surreal humour and eccentric characters, as we follow Bernard, Manny and Fran through the daily challenges of running the shop, and their own dysfunctional lives.

94. The English

Emily Blunt and Chaske Spencer lead this striking Western drama, which follows an Englishwoman and a Pawnee scout as they journey across the American frontier in the late 19th century. The series explores themes of revenge, identity, and survival, with stunning cinematography and complex characters, as the protagonists confront violence and prejudice, and their unlikely partnership develops into a powerful bond.

95. Fawlty Towers

John Cleese and Prunella Scales star in this iconic sitcom set in a dysfunctional seaside hotel. Cleese’s Basil Fawlty is a masterclass in comic frustration, constantly battling incompetent staff, difficult guests and his formidable wife Sybil. With its tightly constructed farce, memorable characters and razor-sharp dialogue, Fawlty Towers is widely regarded as one of the greatest British comedies of all time.

96. Queer as Folk

This groundbreaking series, created by Russell T Davies, chronicles the lives of three gay men in Manchester at the turn of the millennium. Starring Aidan Gillen, Craig Kelly and Charlie Hunnam, the show broke new ground with its frank depiction of sexuality, relationships and the LGBTQ+ community, and paved the way for greater representation on British television.

97. Hello Ladies

This US comedy series from Stephen Merchant sees him star as Stuart, a socially awkward Englishman searching for love in Los Angeles. Taking elements from Merchant's stand-up show of the same name, and mining his own dating misadventures from comedy, it's a seriously cringe-inducing show that perhaps pushes this even further than his earlier work with Ricky Gervais. However, it also has a heart, and comes to a satisfying conclusion in a one-off TV film.

98. Chewing Gum

Michaela Coel writes and stars in this bold and inventive comedy about Tracey, a young woman who has lived a restricted life with her deeply religious long-term boyfriend, and wants to lose her virginity and learn more about the world. Both seasons of the show were acclaimed upon their debut, with the series being celebrated for its originality and unique voice.

99. One Day

Based on David Nicholls’s best-selling novel, this Netflix adaptation of One Day follows the lives of Emma (Ambika Mod) and Dexter (Leo Woodall), who meet at university and pass in and out of each other's lives. We track them over the years by checking in on the same day each year, as their relationship evolves. It's a series which charts emotional highs and lows, and will likely not leave a single dry eye come its heartbreaking end.

100. The Sympathizer

Set during and after the Vietnam War, The Sympathizer follows a North Vietnamese spy embedded in the South Vietnamese army and later exiled to the United States, who is simply known as the Captain. Co-showrunner and director Park Chan-wook brings all of his singular style to proceedings, while star Hoa Xuande delivers a rich and nuanced central performance. Meanwhile, Robert Downey Jr is excellent in multiple roles as some of the Americans who prove crucial to the Captain's journey.

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