In the realm of television, few genres captivate audiences quite like the mystery drama. And when it comes to crafting intricate plots, complex characters, and atmospheric settings, British television has consistently proven itself to be a master of the craft. Over the past decade, we’ve been treated to a veritable smorgasbord of gripping mysteries from across the pond, each offering its own unique take on crime, detection, and the human psyche.
In this deep dive, we’ll explore some of the finest British mystery shows that have graced our screens in recent years. From the gritty streets of London to the windswept shores of Shetland, we’ll uncover both the critically acclaimed favorites and some hidden gems that may have slipped under your radar. So, grab your deerstalker hat and magnifying glass as we embark on this thrilling journey through the best of British mysteries.
The Cream of the Crop: Top-rated British Mystery Shows
1. Line of Duty (2012-2021)
If there’s one show that has redefined the police procedural genre in recent years, it’s “Line of Duty.” Created by Jed Mercurio, this intense drama follows the AC-12 unit, a team dedicated to rooting out corruption within the police force. What sets “Line of Duty” apart is its relentless pacing, intricate plotting, and those nail-biting interrogation scenes that have become the show’s hallmark.
Each series introduces a new case and a guest lead, but it’s the core trio of DS Steve Arnott (Martin Compston), DI Kate Fleming (Vicky McClure), and Superintendent Ted Hastings (Adrian Dunbar) that forms the heart of the show. Their quest to uncover the mysterious ‘H’ and dismantle an organized crime group infiltrating the police keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
2. Broadchurch (2013-2017)
Set in the fictional Dorset town of Broadchurch, this series took the UK by storm when it first aired. Created by Chris Chibnall, “Broadchurch” begins with the death of 11-year-old Danny Latimer, a tragedy that unravels the tight-knit coastal community.
At the center of the investigation are two detectives: the local DS Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) and the newcomer DI Alec Hardy (David Tennant). Their contrasting styles – Miller’s emotional connection to the community versus Hardy’s detached, by-the-book approach – create a compelling dynamic that drives the series.
3. Happy Valley (2014-2023)
“Happy Valley” is anything but happy, and that’s precisely what makes it so compelling. Created by Sally Wainwright, this gritty drama stars Sarah Lancashire as Catherine Cawood, a police sergeant in the Calder Valley of West Yorkshire. Catherine is a complex character – tough and dedicated to her job, yet dealing with personal trauma that continues to haunt her.
The show’s strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of a community dealing with drug addiction, violence, and the long-lasting effects of crime. Lancashire’s performance as Catherine is nothing short of extraordinary, bringing depth and nuance to a character who’s both fiercely strong and deeply vulnerable.
4. Unforgotten (2015-present)
“Unforgotten” follows two London detectives, DCI Cassie Stuart (Nicola Walker) and DI Sunny Khan (Sanjeev Bhaskar), as they solve cold cases. Created by Chris Lang, the show stands out for its thoughtful approach to crime-solving, focusing on the painstaking process of piecing together long-buried secrets.
Each series tackles a new cold case, exploring how the past continues to impact the present. The show excels in its character development, not just of the main detectives but also of the suspects and victims. It asks profound questions about guilt, redemption, and the nature of justice, especially when dealing with crimes committed decades ago.
5. Luther (2010-2019, with a 2023 film)
In DCI John Luther, played with intense charisma by Idris Elba, we have one of the most compelling detective characters of recent years. Created by Neil Cross, “Luther” is a psychological crime drama that blurs the lines between good and evil, right and wrong.
Luther is a brilliant detective with an uncanny ability to get inside the minds of the criminals he pursues. However, his methods are often unorthodox, and his moral compass doesn’t always point true north. The show is known for its dark, often gruesome cases that push Luther to his limits.
6. Shetland (2013-present)
Based on Ann Cleeves’ novels, “Shetland” follows DI Jimmy Perez (Douglas Henshall) as he investigates crimes on the remote Shetland Isles. The show’s unique setting plays a crucial role, with the stark beauty of the landscape providing a striking backdrop to the often dark and complex cases.
“Shetland” stands out for its atmospheric storytelling and the way it weaves the islands’ isolation and close-knit community into its mysteries. The show tackles a range of issues, from human trafficking to the impact of the oil industry on the islands, all while maintaining a strong sense of place and character.
7. Endeavour (2012-2023)
A prequel to the beloved “Inspector Morse” series, “Endeavour” follows the early career of Endeavour Morse (Shaun Evans) in 1960s Oxford. The show beautifully captures the essence of the era while providing intricate mysteries that showcase Morse’s keen intellect and troubled persona.
“Endeavour” not only satisfies fans of the original series but stands on its own as a high-quality period crime drama. The show’s attention to historical detail, combined with its exploration of Morse’s formative years, adds depth to one of British television’s most iconic detectives.
8. Vera (2011-present)
Based on Ann Cleeves’ novels, “Vera” stars Brenda Blethyn as the sharp, but unconventional DCI Vera Stanhope. Set in Northumberland, the show makes excellent use of its stunning landscapes, from windswept coastlines to remote rural areas.
Vera herself is a unique character in the world of TV detectives – middle-aged, unkempt, and often abrasive, yet brilliant at her job. The show’s strength lies in Blethyn’s nuanced performance and the way each episode unravels not just the central mystery, but also the lives of the people involved.
Hidden Gems: Underrated British Mystery Series
While the shows mentioned above have garnered significant attention and acclaim, the British television landscape is rich with lesser-known gems that are equally deserving of your time. Let’s shine a spotlight on some of these underrated mysteries.
1. Giri/Haji (2019)
“Giri/Haji” (Duty/Shame) is a unique entry in the British mystery genre, blending elements of British and Japanese culture into a globetrotting crime thriller. Created by Joe Barton, the show follows a Tokyo detective, Kenzo Mori (Takehiro Hira), as he travels to London in search of his allegedly deceased brother, who’s accused of murder.
What makes “Giri/Haji” stand out is its ambitious scope and innovative storytelling techniques. The narrative seamlessly switches between Tokyo and London, past and present, incorporating elements of yakuza crime dramas, family sagas, and fish-out-of-water comedies.
2. The Capture (2019-2022)
“The Capture” is a modern thriller that delves into the world of surveillance and deepfake technology. Created by Ben Chanan, the show follows DI Rachel Carey (Holliday Grainger) as she investigates a case that quickly spirals into a complex conspiracy involving manipulated video evidence.
What sets “The Capture” apart is its timely exploration of technology’s role in criminal investigations and its potential for misuse. The show raises thought-provoking questions about privacy, security, and the nature of truth in the digital age, all while delivering a gripping, twist-filled narrative.
3. McMafia (2018)
Starring James Norton, “McMafia” is a sprawling international thriller that follows Alex Godman, the British-raised son of Russian exiles with mafia ties. As Alex is drawn deeper into the world of organized crime, the show takes viewers on a global journey, showcasing the interconnected nature of modern criminal networks.
“McMafia” stands out for its ambitious scope and its exploration of how organized crime operates in the globalized world. It’s a show that blends elements of family drama with high-stakes thriller, all while providing insight into the complex world of international crime.
4. The Shadow Line (2011)
Created by Hugo Blick, “The Shadow Line” is a complex, seven-part series that explores the murder of a drug baron from the perspective of both the police and criminals involved. The show boasts an impressive cast, including Chiwetel Ejiofor as an amnesiac detective and Christopher Eccleston as the murdered man’s second-in-command.
What sets “The Shadow Line” apart is its intricate plotting and philosophical underpinnings. It’s a show that’s not afraid to challenge its audience, weaving complex narrative threads that come together in a satisfying, if shocking, conclusion.
5. Hatton Garden (2019)
Based on the true story of the infamous Hatton Garden safe deposit burglary, this miniseries offers a fascinating look at one of the most audacious heists in British history. What makes it particularly intriguing is that the criminals were a group of elderly men, some in their 70s.
The show stands out for its focus on the meticulous planning and execution of the heist, rather than relying on violence or action. It’s a slow-burn thriller that delves into the motivations of its aging criminals and the impact of their actions.
6. The Girl Before (2021)
This psychological thriller, based on JP Delaney’s novel, stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw and David Oyelowo. The story follows a woman who moves into an unusual minimalist house designed by an enigmatic architect. As she discovers the fate of the house’s previous occupant, the lines between past and present begin to blur.
“The Girl Before” stands out for its stylish visuals, psychological depth, and the way it uses its unique setting to build tension. It’s a twisty, thought-provoking thriller that keeps viewers guessing until the end.
7. Des (2020)
Starring David Tennant, “Des” is a chilling three-part drama based on the true story of Scottish serial killer Dennis Nilsen. Set in 1980s London, the series focuses not just on Nilsen’s crimes, but on the police investigation and the killer’s arrest and trial.
What sets “Des” apart is Tennant’s eerily captivating performance as Nilsen and the show’s restrained approach to its disturbing subject matter. Rather than sensationalizing the crimes, it offers a thoughtful exploration of the impact of Nilsen’s actions and the nature of evil.
The Evolution of the Genre
The landscape of British mystery shows has evolved significantly over the past decade. While traditional whodunits and police procedurals still have their place, we’ve seen a trend towards more complex, serialized storytelling.
Shows like “Line of Duty” have pushed the boundaries of the police procedural, introducing long-running story arcs that span multiple series. This approach allows for deeper character development and more intricate plotting, but also demands more from viewers in terms of commitment and attention.
We’ve also seen an increase in genre-blending. “Giri/Haji” combines elements of British and Japanese crime dramas, while “The Capture” incorporates themes of surveillance and technology into its mystery plot. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries keeps the genre fresh and exciting.
Another notable trend is the focus on the wider impact of crime. Rather than treating each case as an isolated incident, many recent shows explore the ripple effects of criminal acts on families, communities, and even entire cities. This approach adds depth and realism to the storytelling, grounding these mysteries in a recognizable and relatable world.
Conclusion
The world of British mystery shows is rich and diverse, offering something for every taste. From the nail-biting tension of “Line of Duty” to the emotional depth of “Broadchurch,” from the gritty realism of “Happy Valley” to the psychological intensity of “Luther,” these shows demonstrate the strength and variety of British television.
What’s particularly exciting is the constant evolution of the genre. While honoring the traditions of classic British mysteries, contemporary shows aren’t afraid to push boundaries, blend genres, and tackle complex themes. This willingness to innovate ensures that the British mystery genre remains as vibrant and compelling as ever.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or a newcomer looking to dive in, the shows discussed here offer hours of gripping, thought-provoking entertainment. From the well-known hits to the hidden gems, there’s a wealth of great storytelling to discover.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a good mystery, consider giving one of these British gems a try. You might just find yourself hooked on a new favorite show. Happy watching, and may your next favorite mystery be just around the corner!
