5 Perfect Non-Mainstream British Sitcoms Everyone Needs to Watch

British television has long been known for its exceptional quality. The brilliant stories at the heart of literally every show, the sharp wit and unique characters make every viewing an amazing experience.

And while there are many genres, including the most serious shows, that achieve extreme success, sitcoms still hold a special place for every fan of British television. From quirky family dynamics to awkward social situations, British sitcoms have a charm that's hard to replicate.

Here are five of the best British sitcoms to watch right now.

1. Gavin & Stacey (2007-2024)

This 97% rated series is one of the most popular sitcoms in recent British television history. It brings together a lovable couple, Gavin, played by Matthew Horne, and Stacey, portrayed by Joanna Page, whose long-distance relationship begins over the phone and quickly turns into a full-blown love story after they meet for the first time.

What follows is a delightful exploration of the differences between their two families: Gavin's working-class Welsh clan and Stacey's more traditional English family. Gavin & Stacey seamlessly blends humor with heart, and that is what makes it so beloved.

2. Chewing Gum (2015-2017)

Created and written by Michaela Coel, Chewing Gum is a bold and boundary-pushing sitcom based on Coel's 2012 play Chewing Gum Dreams. The show stars Coel herself as Tracey Gordon, a religious (and Beyoncé-obsessed) young woman who has to navigate the awkward and often hilarious realities of adulthood.

The series takes Tracey through many different misadventures as she explores relationships, friendships, and the reality of life outside of her sheltered upbringing.

“I absolutely loved it. Hilarious and heartwarming too. I haven't enjoyed a sitcom that much in a long time. The writing and main actors are fantastic,” Redditor Lanabananaaas said.

3. One Foot in the Grave (1990-2001)

Another outstanding British sitcom is this gem from the 90s. One Foot in the Grave stars Richard Wilson as Victor Meldrew, a grumpy retired man who constantly finds himself in bizarre and frustrating situations. But despite his tendency to complain about the world around him, Victor's misadventures provide both humor and surprisingly heartfelt moments. Even when you least expect them.

The show is also known for its dark humor, often exploring the absurdities of aging and dealing with life's inevitable setbacks. But there's one thing that's absolutely endearing about Victor: his interactions with his wife, Margaret, played brilliantly by Annette Crosbie, reveal a much deeper and more caring side that's impossible to hide.

4. Fawlty Towers (1975-1979)

True fans of British television know that there's nothing better than old school shows, and the '70s was one of the greatest eras of it. And arguably the most iconic British sitcom of all time is Fawlty Towers. Fans even say it's one of those shows where there are no bad episodes.

The show is set in a crumbling hotel run by the incompetent Basil Fawlty, played by the legendary John Cleese. Along with his equally dysfunctional wife, Prunella Scales' Sybil, and a cast of wacky staff, Basil's efforts to run the hotel result in constant chaos and absurd situations.

5. Rising Damp (1974-1978)

Another example of a near-perfect old-time show is Rising Damp. Set in a rundown boarding house in the north of England, it focuses on the interactions between the tenants and their rather eccentric landlord, Rigsby, played by Leonard Rossiter, who is another iconic grumpy character (just like British TV likes).