Amazon Prime Video has become a go-to place for streaming period dramas over the past few years. With many titles available, choosing what to watch can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best period dramas on Amazon Prime right now, including both TV shows and movies.
Whether you’re into romantic classics like Poldark or enjoy period drama mysteries, international dramas, or hidden gems, there’s something here for everyone.
One notable recent addition is the romantic adaptation of Nancy Mitford’s “The Pursuit of Love,” starring Lily James. Premiering last year, it’s definitely worth a watch!
Originally, we only included miniseries and TV shows, but as of 2022, we’ve added period movies to this list. If you’re a fan of romantic, uplifting, or fantasy-infused historical dramas, or simply love British period dramas, this list has you covered.
We’ve tailored our picks to cater to a variety of interests while mostly focusing on those with less explicit content. This list was first published in 2016 and is updated as of December 2022. It includes period dramas currently available in the United States on Amazon Prime Video, but availability can change.
The 50 Best Period Dramas on Amazon Prime – Miniseries and TV Shows (2022)
1 The ABC Murders (2018)
Hercule Poirot, older and greyer, receives threatening letters signed by “ABC.” After taking them to the police without much support, he must solve a murder on his own. Worth watching for the production quality.
Content Note: TV-14 for brief strong language, mild sensuality, and moderate violence.
2 Agatha Christie’s The Pale Horse (2020)
A dead woman is found with a mysterious list of names in her shoe. Though not everyone loves Sarah Phelps’ adaptations, fans of Rufus Sewell might still enjoy it.
Content Note: TV-14
3 An American Girl Story (2016)
Set during the Civil Rights Movement, this series follows a young African-American girl whose optimism helps her navigate troubling times. It’s suitable for older children and offers a historically accurate portrayal.
Content Note: 7+
4 Anzac Girls (2014)
This miniseries tells true stories of young women facing the brutality and heroism of war, focusing on relatable female characters.
Content Note: TV-MA for violence and brief strong language.
5 Bloody Romance (2018)
A young girl sold to a brothel becomes an assassin using her beauty as a weapon. This Chinese drama is praised for its strong female lead.
Content Note: 13+
6 Call of the Wild (2000)
A delightful series set in an Alaskan mining town where a boy and his dog face nature’s challenges. Great for family viewing.
Content Note: TV-Y7
7 The Chosen, Seasons 1-2 (2019)
The highest crowd-funded TV series about the life of Christ, told through the eyes of those who met him. Noteworthy for its character development.
Content Note: TV-PG
8 The Collection (2016)
Set in a post-war Paris fashion house, this drama centers on two clashing brothers running a business. It’s filled with rivalry, romance, and high stakes.
Content Note: 16+ (mild TV-MA for sensuality)
9 Doctor Thorne (2016)
From the creator of Downton Abbey, this romantic miniseries revolves around Dr. Thorne and his niece in a quiet English town.
Content Note: TV-14
10 Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
A sprawling Edwardian mansion in Yorkshire needs an heir, leading to complex relationships and unforgettable characters. A must-watch period drama.
Content Note: TV-PG to TV-14 (mild)
11 The Duchess of Duke Street (1976-1977)
Based on a true story, this series follows a servant girl who rises to manage a prestigious London hotel, making it a classic period drama.
Content Note: TV-14 (mild)
12 The Durrells in Corfu (2016-2019)
This series tells the story of a widow who decides to seek a new destiny for her family in 1930s Greece. It’s romantic, funny, and beautifully set.
Content Note: TV-PG
13 Ekaterina: The Rise of Catherine the Great (2017)
This series traces Catherine the Great’s rise to power in 18th-century Russia, making it a must-watch for fans of royal period dramas.
Content Note: 13+ (Moderate)
14 Empresses in the Palace (2013)
A sweeping drama of love, betrayal, and scandal inside the Imperial Harem during the Qing Dynasty.
Content Note: 7+ (TV-PG-like)
15 Endeavour (2012-)
A prequel to Inspector Morse, this series explores young Constable Morse’s career in the 1960s.
Content Note: TV-PG to TV-14
16 A French Village (2009-2017)
This acclaimed drama, set during the German occupation of France in World War II, offers a fresh perspective on life during that turbulent period.
Content Note: 16+/TV-MA
17 Grantchester (2014-)
Set in 1953, this series follows a young vicar teaming up with a veteran cop to solve murders in an English village.
Content Note: TV-14
18 Ivanhoe (1997)
A six-part epic miniseries of medieval knights, tournaments, and battles.
Content Note: 13+
19 Little Men (1998-1999)
Follow Jo Bhaer’s struggles as she manages a boarding school after her husband’s death. Inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s classic sequel to Little Women.
Content Note: 7+
20 Little Women (2017)
Adapted from Louisa May Alcott’s novel, this series follows the lives of the March sisters, reflecting on love, loss, and familial bonds.
Content Note: TV-PG
21 London Hospital (Casualty 1900s) (2008)
A drama based on real cases from the Royal London Hospital a century ago, combining romance, surgery, and history.
Content Note: TV-14
22 The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017)
In 1958 New York, a housewife discovers her talent for comedy after a life-changing event. With witty dialogue and stylish set designs, it’s a must-watch.
Content Note: TV-MA
23 Merlin (2008-2012)
This series follows young Merlin as he hones his magical abilities in a kingdom where magic is banned. Great for fans of historical fantasy.
Content Note: TV-14
24 Miss Truth (2020)
Ran Yan studies autopsy to uncover the truth behind her mother’s death and helps solve murders, offering a Sherlock Holmes-like story with romance.
Content Note: TV-14
25 The Musketeers (2014-2016)
Set in 17th-century Paris, this series follows musketeers fighting for justice, honor, and love. It’s an entertaining mix of action and romance.
Content Note: TV-14
26 The Nativity (2010)
A new take on the Biblical story, focusing on Mary and Joseph’s relationship, with standout performances.
Content Note: TV-PG
27 Ordeal by Innocence (2018)
A murder mystery within a wealthy family brings long-hidden secrets to light. The stellar cast alone makes it worth watching.
Content Note: TV-MA
28 The Paradise (2012-2013)
A rags-to-riches story set in England’s first department store, filled with romance and drama.
Content Note: TV-PG
29 Poldark (2015-2019)
Ross Poldark returns from the American War of Independence to find his world turned upside down. This series offers romance, beautiful scenery, and great characters.
Content Note: TV-14
30 The Prisoner of Zenda (1984)
A tale of royal romance and political intrigue centered on an Englishman posing as a kidnapped king. A well-made classic.
Content Note: 13+
31 The Pursuit of Love (2021)
This series explores the friendship between cousins who take different life paths, featuring romance and strong female characters.
Content Note: 13+ (some sensual scenes)
32 The Rebel Princess (2021)
The story of Princess Wang Xuan, who marries Lord Yuzhang and eventually helps create a new era. Features stunning cinematography.
Content Note: TV-14
33 The Romance of Tiger and Rose (2020)
A screenwriter ends up in her own script, navigating life in a matriarchal society. This Chinese drama became a social media hit.
Content Note: 13+
34 Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace (2018)
A sequel to “Empresses in the Palace,” this drama follows Ruyi as she becomes Empress but faces many challenges.
Content Note: 13+
35 Saimdang: Memoir of Colors (2017)
An art historian discovers a diary that delves into a historical romance. It’s a beautiful, dual-timeline Korean drama.
Content Note: 13+
36 Snowy River: The McGregor Saga, Season 1 (1994)
A family drama set in the Australian outback, featuring a young Hugh Jackman.
Content Note: TV-PG
37 Spies of Warsaw (2013)
David Tennant stars in this spy thriller set before World War II. Full of abduction, betrayal, and intrigue.
Content Note: TV-14
38 The Sword and the Brocade (2021)
A romance set during the Ming Dynasty, where a woman uses her embroidery skills to gain freedom.
Content Note: 13+
39 Tom Jones (1997)
This British adaptation tells the story of a gallant hero navigating love and misadventures.
Content Note: TV-14
40 Vanity Fair (2018)
The story of Becky Sharp’s ambition to climb English society, told with a modern flair.
Content Note: TV-14
41 A Very British Scandal (2021)
Focuses on the notorious divorce case of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll. Don’t expect likable characters but do expect high drama.
Content Note: 16+
42 A Very English Scandal (2018)
The true story of British politician Jeremy Thorpe’s trial for conspiracy to murder, starring Hugh Grant.
Content Note: TV-14
43 Victoria (2016)
Explores the early years of Queen Victoria’s reign, focusing on her love story with Prince Albert. A must-watch for fans of royal dramas.
Content Note: TV-PG
44 Vikings (2013-2020)
Follow the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok as he navigates power struggles and quests for glory. High-budget and well-acted.
Content Note: TV-14
45 The Vineyard (2021)
A romantic drama from Spain set in the 19th century, focusing on love and family intrigue.
Content Note: 16+ (brief love scene and some nudity)
46 The Wheel of Time (2021)
An epic fantasy tale where young villagers are drawn into a fight between Light and Dark. High production value and strong performances.
Content Note: 16+
47 Z: The Beginning of Everything (2015-2017)
Follows the life of Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald, the original flapper, starring Christina Ricci.
Content Note: 16+
48: The English (2022)
A Western drama about an English lady and a Pawnee ex-cavalry scout, featuring strong chemistry between the leads.
Content Note: TV-MA
49: A League of Their Own (2022)
A reimagined version of the 1990s film focusing on women’s baseball during World War II. An entertaining watch with deeper themes of identity and racism.
Content Note: 16+
50: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022)
Set thousands of years before the main events of “The Lord of the Rings,” this series combines stunning visuals with an epic fantasy story.
Content Note: TV-14
So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these captivating period dramas on Amazon Prime!
