If you’re a fan of the British drama series Heartbeat, you’re likely on the lookout for more shows that capture the same quaint charm and gripping storylines. Heartbeat is a classic police drama set in the 1960s, and its unique blend of crime-solving and community spirit has won over many viewers. Here are 14 TV shows that you might enjoy if you loved Heartbeat.
1. Midsomer Murders
Midsomer Murders is a British television detective drama that has been a staple for crime drama enthusiasts. The series follows Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby and his successor John Barnaby as they solve murders in the fictional English county of Midsomer. Starring John Nettles and Neil Dudgeon, this show offers a mix of mystery and rural charm.
2. Inspector Morse
Inspector Morse is another beloved British detective series based on the novels by Colin Dexter. The show follows the cerebral and somewhat curmudgeonly Inspector Morse, played by John Thaw, as he solves complex cases in Oxford. With his loyal Sergeant Lewis, this series combines intellectual puzzles with rich character development.
3. Doc Martin
Doc Martin is a British medical comedy-drama that stars Martin Clunes as Dr. Martin Ellingham, a socially awkward and grumpy doctor who moves to a small Cornish village. The show focuses on his interactions with the quirky villagers and his struggle to adapt to rural life. It’s a delightful mix of humor and heartwarming moments.
4. Foyle’s War
Foyle’s War is a British detective drama set during and after World War II. The series stars Michael Kitchen as Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle, who solves crimes on the home front. The show is praised for its historical accuracy and compelling storytelling.
5. Call the Midwife
Call the Midwife is a British period drama that chronicles the lives of midwives working in the East End of London in the late 1950s and 1960s. Starring Jessica Raine and Helen George, the show offers a poignant look at social issues of the time, intertwined with personal stories of the midwives and their patients.
6. Grantchester
Grantchester is a British ITV detective drama set in the 1950s. The series follows Sidney Chambers, a charismatic clergyman played by James Norton, who teams up with Detective Inspector Geordie Keating to solve crimes in the village of Grantchester. The show combines crime-solving with moral and ethical dilemmas.
7. Father Brown
Father Brown is a British television detective period drama which stars Mark Williams as the eponymous Roman Catholic priest who solves crimes in his parish. Based on the stories by G.K. Chesterton, the show is set in the early 1950s and offers a unique blend of mystery and moral lessons.
8. Vera
Vera is a British crime drama series based on the Vera Stanhope series of novels written by Ann Cleeves. The show stars Brenda Blethyn as the eponymous detective chief inspector, a sharp and driven investigator with a knack for solving complex cases. The series is known for its strong character development and intricate plots.
9. The Royal
The Royal is a British medical drama series and a spin-off of Heartbeat. Set in the 1960s, the show follows the staff of St. Aidan’s Royal Free Hospital in the fictional seaside town of Elsinby. With a mix of medical emergencies and personal dramas, the series features performances by Robert Daws and Amy Robbins.
10. The Durrells
The Durrells is a British comedy-drama series based on Gerald Durrell’s autobiographical books about his family’s four years on the Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s. Starring Keeley Hawes as the matriarch Louisa Durrell, the show is a heartwarming and humorous portrayal of family life and adventure.
11. A Touch of Frost
A Touch of Frost is a British television detective drama starring David Jason as Detective Inspector Jack Frost. The show is set in the fictional town of Denton and follows Frost as he tackles a variety of challenging cases with his unorthodox methods. The series is known for its gritty realism and strong performances.
12. Downton Abbey
Downton Abbey is a British historical drama series that follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the early 20th century. Created by Julian Fellowes, the show features an ensemble cast including Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Smith. The series is celebrated for its rich storytelling and historical detail.
13. Endeavour
Endeavour is a British television detective drama and a prequel to Inspector Morse. The series stars Shaun Evans as the young Endeavour Morse, starting his career as a detective constable. Set in the 1960s, the show explores Morse’s early cases and his development into the iconic inspector.
14. Home Fires
Home Fires is a British period television drama about the life of Women’s Institute members on the Home Front during World War II. Starring Francesca Annis and Samantha Bond, the series delves into the personal lives and struggles of the women as they support the war effort and their community.
These shows offer a diverse range of settings and storylines, but they all share the same engaging qualities that made Heartbeat a beloved series. Happy watching!
