My Top 5 British and Irish Shows I Think Are Perfect for Binge-Watching

Over the years, the world of British and Irish television shows has earned a reputation for quality writing, brilliant character development, and unique storylines that keep viewers coming back for more. I'm no stranger to these shows myself, having spent hundreds of hours watching them over the years.

So whether you're looking for something to make you laugh, cry, or sit on the edge of your seat, these shows have you covered. Gripping small-town crime dramas and darkly comic stories are almost endless, but here's my personal top 5.

1. Bad Sisters (2022-)

If you're in the mood for a dark murder mystery with a funny twist, this Irish series is your best bet. Bad Sisters revolves around the Garvey sisters, whose seemingly normal lives are turned upside down by the death of their brother-in-law, John Paul. However, we soon learn that the guy was a jerk, and his death is more of a good thing for each of the sisters...

The show does a perfect job of mixing humor and mystery as the sisters' deep hidden secrets and strained relationships come to the forefront. As we learn more about John Paul's toxic relationship with his wife Grace, the show slowly builds a sense of tension and unpredictability, but it's not until the very end that we learn the truth.

2. Fleabag ( 2016-2019)

Phoebe Waller-Bridge's Fleabag is definitely a masterpiece. Not only because of its story, but also because of her and Andrew Scott 's brilliant performances. The show follows a young woman, known simply as Fleabag, as she navigates her life in London while dealing with the death of her best friend, complicated (to say the least) family dynamics, her own personal struggles, and the general drama of the world.

In this show, Fleabag often speaks directly to the audience, and it's a rather unique fourth-wall-breaking approach that also creates a deeply personal and immersive experience. Fleabag is a mix of tragedy and comedy, and Waller-Bridge's writing and acting make it a show that is as heartbreaking as it is hilarious.

3. Peaky Blinders ( 2013-)

The show that made me fall in love with Cillian Murphy. Peaky Blinders is the perfect choice if you like dark and complex stories with questionable protagonists at the center. Set in the aftermath of World War I, this Birmingham-based drama follows the Shelby crime family as they navigate their rise to power in the chaotic streets of 1920s England.

Led by the ruthless Tommy Shelby, played by Murphy, the show features a diverse cast of characters whose stories all deserve your attention. There are no supporting players in this series, and almost every character's contribution is valuable to the story.

“Tommy, Alfie, Johnny, Curly, and Arthur are the best. Alfie, Johnny, and Curly bring a different, humorous vibe to the show every once in a while which is what makes them really good. Ada is also great after the first season. Aberama was a nice introduction and I also liked seeing the development of Isiah,” Redditor shawnhagh said.

4. The End of the F***ing World (2017-2019)

If you're looking for something quirky, yet dark and unique, this teen drama could become your favorite in the genre. The British series follows James, a self-proclaimed psychopath, and Alyssa, a rebellious teen, who decide to go on a road trip because they hate their lives. But soon everything turns to chaos, and they find themselves in a series of bizarre and dangerous situations.

5. Broadchurch (2013-2017)

Any David Tennant fans here? Well, for those who love the actor and also enjoy gripping crime dramas with complex characters and emotional depth, Broadchurch is a must-see.

The show begins with a murder, when the body of a young boy is found on the beach of a small coastal town. Two detectives are forced to work together to find the local boy's killer, while uncovering secrets that threaten to tear the tight-knit community apart.