If you love good TV dramas, you've surely felt this way at some point. a healthy envy of the British TV series machineIt's not that Spain doesn't produce strong shows, on the contrary, but the UK has been producing memorable series for decades, across all genres, and is currently experiencing another golden age on streaming platforms and free-to-air channels.
In recent years, and looking ahead to 2026, the range of options is so vast that it's hard to know where to begin; for guidance, consult the best series. From Recent gems like “Adolescence” From modern classics like "The Crown", to essential historical shows like "Doctor Who", "Poirot" or "Inspector Morse", not forgetting everything that's coming this year: new seasons of hits, literary adaptations of Agatha Christie, prequels to "Game of Thrones" and original offerings from BBC, ITV, Sky, Netflix, Disney+ or Prime Video.
In recent years, and looking ahead to 2026, the range of options is so vast that it's hard to know where to begin. From Recent gems like “Adolescence” From modern classics like "The Crown", to essential historical shows like "Doctor Who", "Poirot" or "Inspector Morse", not forgetting everything that's coming this year: new seasons of hits, literary adaptations of Agatha Christie, prequels to "Game of Thrones" and original offerings from BBC, ITV, Sky, Netflix, Disney+ or Prime Video.
The best modern British series to stream
The big problem with any list of British TV series is that, in Spain, It's very difficult to find many productions from before 2010 available for streaming.Some classic series have almost disappeared from streaming platforms or appear and disappear from the catalog. Even so, there's a group of recent shows and others from the last 15-20 years that can be watched (or rediscovered) today and are essential viewing for any TV series enthusiast.
“Adolescence” (“Adolescence”, 2025) It has become the biggest recent British television phenomenon. Created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, it's a four-episode miniseries that favors long takes and a highly immersive mise-en-scène. The plot revolves around a crime in a British community and a 13-year-old boy who becomes the prime suspect. With Stephen Graham and Owen Cooper leading the cast, the series builds a bleak atmosphere from beginning to end, one of those stories that They leave you shaken for days.It can be viewed on Netflix.
Another essential title from recent British television is “I May Destroy You” (“I May Destroy You”, 2020)Created by and starring Michaela Coel, the series follows Arabella, a young writer trying to rebuild her life after a sexual assault she doesn't clearly remember. Through the characters of Paapa Essiedu, Weruche Opia, and Coel's own portrayal, the show delves with brutal force into themes such as consent, relationships, abuse of power, and trauma. It premiered in 2020 and, six years later, is still considered a groundbreaking work. one of the great television catharses of the decade.
If we're talking about recent major British productions, it's impossible to leave out “The Crown” (2016-2023)Created by Peter Morgan for Netflix, this six-season series portrays the reign of Queen Elizabeth II from her youth to the final years of the modern monarchy. With actresses like Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton successively taking on the role of the Queen, and an impressive supporting cast, the series offers A high-budget, lavish biopic full of political and personal intrigueIt has sometimes been criticized for downplaying certain real-life controversies, but its historical and visual reconstruction remains impressive.
In the field of comedy, the United Kingdom has produced some of the most influential titles of this century so far. "Fleabag" (2016-2019) It is one of the clearest examples. Created, written, and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, with Sian Clifford and Andrew Scott as co-stars, it tells the story of a thirty-something Londoner grappling with grief, disastrous relationships, and a host of internal contradictions. It does so by breaking the fourth wall, with an acerbic, irreverent, and at times devastating tone that made Waller-Bridge a one of the most stimulating creative voices of recent years.
On the darker, more technological side we find “Black Mirror” (2011-…)The anthology series created by Charlie Brooker imagines dystopian futures (or very near-futures) marked by technology and its effects on society. Each episode tells a standalone story, with tones ranging from devastating drama to dark satire. Some episodes have been widely discussed, while others are already considered classics. masterpieces of contemporary television science fictionWhat is clear is that the series has forever changed the way we look at our mobile phones, social networks and gadgets.
Modern classics of British television
Beyond the most recent releases, the British film catalog from the 90s and 2000s remains a goldmine. Many titles aren't always available in Spain, but they're worth keeping an eye on because They are fundamental to understanding the evolution of British fiction.
One of the most emblematic is “Sherlock” (2010-2017)The modern adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's stories, created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss. Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman reinvent Holmes and Watson in contemporary London, with intricate cases and a very dynamic visual pace. The series consists of short seasons with long episodes that function almost like television films. Between its visual style, rapid-fire dialogue, and the incredible chemistry between its protagonists, has become a benchmark of literary modernizations.
In the field of period drama, few series have had as much impact as "Downton Abbey" (2010-2015)Created by Julian Fellowes, it follows the aristocratic Crawley family and their domestic staff in a Yorkshire mansion at the beginning of the 20th century. Over six seasons, the series covers major historical events (the sinking of the Titanic, the First World War, social and political changes) while focusing on... Loves, tragedies, scandals, and small everyday victoriesIts influence on later British period dramas is enormous.
For office comedy, it absolutely must be mentioned. “The Office” (2001-2003) In its original British version, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant created this sitcom set in a nondescript paper company in Slough, with an awkward, almost documentary-style humor that led to the later American version. Starring Gervais himself and Martin Freeman, the series exploited secondhand embarrassment, silences, and the mediocrity of everyday work to almost painful limits… and hilarious.
Continuing with literary adaptations, British television has been characterized by its appreciation for the classics. “Pride and Prejudice” (“Pride & Prejudice”, 1995)Written by Andrew Davies, this is one of the most celebrated adaptations of Jane Austen's novel. Starring Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth Bennet and Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy, this BBC miniseries boasted a perfect cast, meticulously crafted locations, and a period recreation that marked generations of viewersIt has even influenced the way the character of Darcy is still imagined today.
Detectives, mysteries and the tradition of British crime
Crime and classic mystery are a hallmark of British culture. Much of that fame stems from adaptations of great authors and characters who have become television icons. Within this universe, we find several key series that, to varying degrees, remain available on platforms like Filmin and Prime Video.
On one side is “Inspector Morse” (“Inspector Morse”, 1987-1993)Based on the novels by Colin Dexter, this series stars John Thaw, with Kevin Whately and James Grout. It follows Endeavour Morse, a veteran police inspector in Oxford, considered the best in the Thames Valley. The series is structured in long episodes, almost like TV movies, in the style of "Columbo," and has since spawned prequels and spin-offs such as "Lewis" and "Endeavour." For fans of slow-burning mysteries with a distinctly British character, it is a real delightIt can be found on Prime Video at certain times.
Another pillar of the genre is “Poirot” (1989-2013)The long-running television adaptation of the cases of the famous Belgian detective created by Agatha Christie. Starring David Suchet—for many, the definitive incarnation of Hercule Poirot—the series ran for 13 seasons. Although its later seasons may show some visual signs of aging, it remains... A feast for those who enjoy classic parlor mysteryWith well-crafted plots, seemingly impossible crimes, and a charmingly maniacal protagonist, it's available on Filmin, Prime Video, and occasionally on [other platforms]. Movistar Plus.
Among the titles that, although not currently easily accessible via streaming, cannot be overlooked when discussing British series, the following stand out: “I, Claudius” (“I, Claudius”, 1976)This production, created by Martin Lisemore, Joan Sullivan, Herbert Wise, and Jack Pulman, with Derek Jacobi and Sian Phillips among others, reconstructs the Roman Empire from the perspective of Emperor Claudius. With a theatrical yet powerful production, razor-sharp dialogue, and a truly luxurious castIt continues to be considered one of the best series in television history. It's currently unavailable on Spanish platforms, but as soon as it reappears, it's worth keeping an eye out for.
Doctor Who and other British television institutions
If we're talking about television institutions, it's essential to mention “Doctor Who” (1963-1989, 2005-…)The BBC series about the Time Lord who travels through space and time in the TARDIS has accumulated decades of stories, with multiple incarnations of the Doctor, from classics like Tom Baker to more recent names like David Tennant, Matt Smith, and Ncuti Gatwa. Throughout its 26 classic seasons and the 15 (and counting) of the modern era, it has covered all kinds of plots: alien invasions, dystopias, historical journeys, horror episodes, and more. emotional episodes that have been etched into the collective memoryIn Spain, the most recent seasons can be seen on Disney+.
The production value and following that “Doctor Who” achieves illustrate very well how British series can become part of the country's cultural landscapeThis also happens with more modern phenomena such as "Line of Duty" or the great comedies of Channel 4 and BBC.
New and returning British TV series in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, the British television calendar is packed. January, in particular, is an ideal month to hibernate on the sofa while storms like Storm Goretti rage outside, and the networks know it. The combination of new seasons of much-loved series, entirely new productions, and nostalgic returns results in... one of the strongest years in terms of British TV series premieres.
Internationally, to begin with, several series stand out that, while not entirely British, do feature a strong presence of UK talent and production. For example, "Queer Eye" returns with its tenth and final season on Netflix on January 21, with its Fab Five preparing for new emotional transformations, this time in Washington, D.C. It will be the farewell to a format that has shaped recent television and that, once again, promises to be a resounding success. equal parts tears and good vibes.
Among the new teen romance series with global appeal is an adaptation of the ice hockey novel "Game Changers," focusing on the story of Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, played by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. This series, which has generated considerable buzz online, is finally arriving in Britain after its success in other territories, showcasing how The platforms are betting on diverse and niche stories with an international focus..
New series and highly anticipated seasons on streaming platforms
In the streaming environment, the first quarter of the year is shaping up to be very strong. “Tell me lies” The third season premieres on January 14 on Disney+. The first two seasons followed the toxic relationship between Lucy and Stephen, played by Grace Van Patten and Jackson White, and all signs point to even more psychological games, twists, and surprises in this unhealthy dynamic. It's one of those series that They hook you through emotional tension as much as for the romantic drama.
He will return on January 29th "Bridgerton" Netflix will release the first part of its fourth season (the second part arrives on February 26). This time, the main plot will focus on Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Baek, in a love story with clear echoes of "Cinderella." There will be eight episodes filled with period balls, social intrigue, passionate romances, and the now-classic soundtrack of pop covers. The series is one of Shondaland and Netflix's biggest global hits, and its universe expands even with parallel experiences such as the "Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings" concerts, which allow Relive the melodies of the series surrounded by candlelight.
It returns to HBO (and BBC for the UK). “Industry” Premiering January 12 on the BBC (January 11 on HBO in the US), this financial thriller, which has starred Myha'la, Marisa Abela, and Kit Harington in recent seasons, will now also feature Charlie Heaton, known for “Stranger Things.” Set in the competitive world of London finance, the series explores extreme pressures, excessive ambition, and emotional insecurity of young people trying to climb the banking elite.
Netflix is also betting heavily on literary mysteries with “Seven Dials” (January 15)An adaptation of Agatha Christie's novel "The Mystery of the Seven Dials." In it, Mia McKenna-Bruce plays Bundle, a determined young woman who embarks on an investigation into a death that occurred in her own home. She is joined by heavyweights such as Martin Freeman, Helena Bonham Carter, and Corey Mylchreest, in a production that promises to be a hit. blend Christie's classic charm with a modern rhythm.
Fantasy, prequels and major British brands
“Game of Thrones” fans will have another key date at the beginning of the year with “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” (January 19, Sky Atlantic/NOW)This series adapts George R.R. Martin's novellas "Tales of Dunk and Egg," set approximately 90 years before the events of the main saga. We will follow Ser Duncan the Tall (Dunk) and the young Prince Aegon Targaryen (Egg) on their adventures in Westeros, with a slightly more adventurous tone but maintaining the essence of the main saga. the political intrigue and complex world that characterizes the author.
Coming to Prime in March “Young Sherlock” (March 4)A reinterpretation of the famous detective during his university years. Based on the books by Andrew Lane and directed by Guy Ritchie, the series will star Hero Fiennes Tiffin as a young Sherlock Holmes in training at Oxford, facing his first murder mystery. The idea is to show how the analytical mind and character traits are forged, mixing thriller with youthful adventures.
In the realm of teen drama, one of the most talked-about returns will be that of "Euphoria"The new season is scheduled for March on Sky Atlantic/NOW in the UK. It will be four years since the second season and five since its last episode aired when the new batch arrives. With Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, and Jacob Elordi returning to the main cast, this third season is expected to be the last, bringing the series to a close. a raw and stylized portrait of contemporary adolescence which has generated intense debates about representation, drugs, mental health and sexuality.
Nostalgic returns and new quality miniseries
Among the most nostalgic projects of 2026, the following stands out: “Malcolm in the Middle: Life's Still Unfair!” (April 10, Disney+)The iconic family sitcom returns as a four-part, 30-minute miniseries, in which Malcolm and his daughter attend his parents' 40th wedding anniversary party. Frankie Muniz and Bryan Cranston reprise their roles, joined by much of the original cast. It's a project that aims to... to engage both fans of the classic series and new generations, with the same mix of chaotic humor and tenderness.
Apple TV+ will present “Margo's Got Money Troubles” (April 15)A miniseries based on the novel by Rufi Thorpe. Starring Elle Fanning, Nicole Kidman, Nick Offerman, and Michelle Pfeiffer, it follows Margo, a young mother with a newborn and a mountain of bills, who is forced to find unconventional solutions to her financial problems. This drama promises to be a hit. combining social commentary, intimate drama, and awkward humor with a truly luxurious cast.
The television premiere of “Dear England” The BBC series, based on the Olivier Award-winning play that chronicles Gareth Southgate's tenure as England's national football team manager, is set to premiere around May 24, 2026, on BBC One. It is already known that Joseph Fiennes will portray Southgate in four episodes that will blend various elements. sport, politics, media pressure and emotional management of failure and success.
On ITV, one of the most talked-about series even before it premiered is “The Lady” (early 2026, ITV)Over four episodes, the production explores the rise and fall of Jane Andrews, a former royal dressmaker who was ultimately convicted of murder. Mia McKenna-Bruce portrays Andrews, while Natalie Dormer plays Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. The latter has refused to promote the series following the public revelation of her connections to Jeffrey Epstein, which has added an additional layer of controversy and media attention.
Major literary adaptations and high-profile projects
Disney+ is preparing the return of “Rivals”The new season, an adaptation of Jilly Cooper's novel, is expected to premiere later this year without a specific date, promising more wit, desire, scandals, and surprising twists. David Tennant, Alex Hassell, and Declan O'Hara will reprise their roles in this series that... It plays with glamour, professional rivalries, and unleashed passions. in a British high society setting.
On Prime Video, one of the titles that generates the most anticipation is the series of “Tomb Raider”Developed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge as creator, writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner, the series stars Sophie Turner, known for "Game of Thrones," as Lara Croft, while the cast includes names like Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs. Although the exact release date has not been made public, the project aims to... Update the video game icon with Waller-Bridge's signature humor and character..
Netflix, for its part, is preparing a new version of "Pride and Prejudice" Reinterpreted by Dolly Alderton, author of the BBC series “All I Know About Love.” Emma Corrin, whom many remember from “The Crown,” will play Elizabeth Bennet, while Jack Lowden, of “Slow Horses,” will be the new Mr. Darcy. The intention is to offer a contemporary reading of the romantic classic maintaining the essence of Jane Austen, something that is already generating a curious mix of anticipation and skepticism among the most purist fans.
British calendar: premieres, renewals and series on the air
In addition to the big international names, it's worth paying attention to the specific programming schedules of British free-to-air channels and their main platforms, because that's where you can see how The local industry maintains a continuous flow of dramas, comedies, thrillers, and miniseries.There are daily updated lists that mark in green the series currently airing and in yellow those that have finished their last season but are awaiting renewal or cancellation.
Among the dates already confirmed, the following stand out, for example: "Death Valley", second season, which premieres on May 17 on BBC One; “Falling”A new Channel 4 series arriving on May 19th; and “Dear England”whose premiere on BBC One is scheduled for May 24, 2026. On May 27, BBC Three launches the complete second season of “A Good Girl's Guide to Murder”.
Beyond those specific dates, there are quite a few productions with new seasons "yet to be announced." At the BBC, titles such as “Amandaland” (S2), “Beyond Paradise” (S5), “Black Ops” (S3), “Blue Lights” (S4), “Call the Midwife” (S16), “Death in Paradise” (S16), “Doctor Who” (S16), “Here We Go” (S4), “Not Going Out” (S15), “Silent Witness” (S30), “Two Doors Down” (S8) or “Waterloo Road” (S18) They are pending a date, which demonstrates the extent to which British series are opting for long seasons and lasting television universes.
In the realm of crime drama and thriller, upcoming returns of “Line of Duty” (S7), “Sherwood” (S3), “Shetland” (S11), “The Capture” (already with its third season completed), “Trigger Point” (S4), “Unforgotten” (S7), “Gangs of London” (S4), “Save Me” (S3) or “Grace” (S7)Many of them have already been filmed or are in production, and only the official confirmation of the schedule from BBC, ITV, Channel 4 or Sky is missing.
As for new projects and miniseries, the list of projects in development is long: “A Tale of Two Cities”, “Can You Keep a Secret?”, “Counsels”, “Daddy Issues” S2, “First Day on Earth”, “King and Conqueror”, “Legacy of Spies”, “Ludwig”, “Lynley” S2, “Miss Austen” S2, “Riot Women”, “SAS: Rogue Heroes” S3, “The Cage”, “The Cleaner” S4, “The Dream Lands”, “The Ministry of Time”, “The Night Manager” S3, “The Split Up”, “The Witch Farm”, “This City is Ours” S2, “Time” S3, “Two Weeks in August”, “Virdee” S1, “Wahala”…and many more. Some already have their first seasons completed (such as “Mint”, “Return to Paradise”, “The Young Offenders”, “We Are Lady Parts”, “The Power of Parker” or “Wild Cherry”), others have remained at a single batch of episodes waiting to see if they continue.
Names like Channel 4, Sky, ITV and other networks also appear “Big Mood” (S2), “Everyone Else Burns” (S3), “Red Eye” (S3), “The Dry” (S3), “Brassic” (S7), “The Day of the Jackal” (S2), “Sweetpea” (S2), “The Crow Girl” (S2), “The Ex-Wife” (S2) and many projects labeled as “season completed (S1)” awaiting news: “Dreamers”, “Small Town, Big Story”, “The Iris Affair”, “The Revenge Club”, “Frauds”, “Coldwater”, etc. This mosaic reveals an ecosystem in which Big-budget productions are mixed with smaller fictions, auteur comedies, and niche thrillers..
The relevance of specialized media in the culture of television series
Keeping track of all these series, dates, and renewals would be impossible without the ongoing work of specialized media outlets. In Spain, for example, the magazine FRAMES Since 1946, it has established itself as one of the essential references in film and entertainment. Since it arrived at newsstands on November 15 of that year, it has evolved to cover not only new releases, but also the best series coming to the platformsInterviews with actors and directors, analysis and curiosities of the audiovisual landscape.
The FOTOGRAMAS team is made up of journalists and critics such as Juan Silvestre (digital director), Javier Díaz-Salado (digital editor-in-chief), Ricardo Rosado and Fran Chico (writers), and Sergio Valverde (Community Manager), among other contributors. Day after day, they are responsible for providing... Up-to-date information, reviews written by prestigious names, and exclusive content such as clips, teasers, and trailershelping to guide the public through the avalanche of premieres.
Meanwhile, platforms like Filmin also inform their users about title availability and new releases. Although a message like “Your browser is too old” may sometimes appear when accessing the site with outdated devices, the reality is that These services are key to recovering hard-to-find British classics. and to discover little gems that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Between local catalogs, major global platforms, and specialized media, fans of British series now have more tools than ever to keep track of premieres like "Adolescence," "Seven Dials," "The Lady," or "Tomb Raider"; to binge-watch "The Crown," "Fleabag," "Doctor Who," "Downton Abbey," or "Line of Duty"; and to stay informed about the countless titles in development that make up one of the richest and most varied series ecosystems in the world.
