If you are counting down the days until Bridgerton returns with its fourth season, you are not alone. The glittering balls, smouldering glances, and scandalous secrets of the town have quite left the void. But fret not, there’s a whole world of equally captivating costume dramas to dive into in the meantime. From slow-burn romances and forbidden affairs to high-stakes court politics and eye-popping period fashion, these shows offer the same delicious mix of drama, charm, and historical flair. Here are some irresistible picks to keep your regency cravings satisfied until the next season drops.
The Buccaneers – Apple TV
This is a vibrant and cheeky period drama that’s perfect for fans of Bridgerton. Based on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel, this series follows a group of bold, wealthy American girls who travel to 1870s London in search of aristocratic husbands – and end up shaking up the rigid British upper class in the process. With its dazzling costumes, rebellious heroines, and a modern soundtrack (much like Bridgerton), this series blends period elegance with a contemporary edge. It’s a juicy, emotionally charged series that delivers both swoon-worthy romance and biting social commentary, making it a must-watch for anyone who craves a fresh, feminist twist on the traditional costume drama.
The Crown – Netflix
While The Crown may not have the steamy romances of Bridgerton, it more than makes up for it with its rich storytelling, impeccable production, and gripping portrayal of British royalty. Spanning multiple decades, this acclaimed drama chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, offering an intimate look at the personal and political struggles behind palace walls. Each season is steeped in historical drama, power plays, emotional tension, and, of course, stunning period costumes that evolve with the times. For those who enjoy high-stakes family dynamics, royal intrigue, and prestige storytelling with a sharp emotional core, this is a must-add to your watchlist.
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story – Netflix
Set in the same universe as Bridgerton, this prequel series dives into the early years of Queen Charlotte’s reign and her complex, passionate relationship with King George III. Blending romance, drama, and heartbreak with the signature Bridgerton flair – opulent costumes, dazzling ballrooms, and a modern musical twist – the series is both a love story and a powerful character study. It also enriches the main series by giving emotional depth and backstory to familiar faces like Lady Danbury and Violet Bridgerton.
The Gilded Age – JioHotstar
This sumptuous period drama is set in New York in the 1880s – a time of rapid change, immense wealth, and fierce social rivalry. At the heart of the series is the clash between old-money aristocrats and ambitious new-money families determined to claim their place in polite society. With a sharp script, complex female characters, and stunning set design that captures the grandeur of the era, the series explores class anxiety, ambition, and the cost of maintaining appearances. It’s a slower burn than Bridgerton, but equally addictive – with plenty of drama, fashion, and scandal to keep you hooked.
The Pursuit of Love – Amazon Prime Video
Based on Nancy Mitford’s beloved novel and set between the two World Wars, the series follows the fiercely romantic and impulsive Linda Radlett as she searches for true love and excitement beyond the constraints of her conservative upbringings. At its core, though, it’s about female friendship, self-discovery, and the sometimes messy journey of love. With sharp performances (especially from Lily James as Linda) and a story that balances charm with melancholy, this short but striking series is delightfully stylish.
The Great – JioHotstar
Loosely based on the rise of Catherine the Great, Russia’s longest-reigning female ruler, this series proudly calls itself ‘an occasionally true story’. Elle Fanning shines as Catherine, evolving from a naive, idealistic young woman to a sharp, power-hungry empress determined to overthrow her husband, Emperor Peter III (played hilariously by Nicholas Hoult). With razor-sharp dialogue, absurdist humour, over-the-top characters, and gorgeously decadent visuals, the series turns royal court life into a rollercoaster of ambition, betrayal, and unexpected tenderness.
Dickinson – Apple TV
This unconventional period drama reimagines the life of American poet Emily Dickinson and is a total treat for Bridgerton fans who love historical settings with a bold, modern twist. The series centers on a young Emily Dickinson (played by Hailee Steinfeld) as she navigates the constraints of 19th-century life in Amherst, Massachusetts. The series explores her romantic feelings for her best friend, Sue Gilbert, who eventually marries Emily’s brother. As Emily struggles to gain recognition for her poetry in a world that dismisses
