The Very Best British Crime Dramas

Unravelling the mysteries of cold cases, this gripping crime drama has had viewers on tenterhooks since it first aired. The brilliant duo of Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar, playing DCI Cassie Stuart and DI Sunil 'Sunny' Khan respectively, have captivated audiences with their compelling chemistry and tenacity. Delving into the murky pasts of long-forgotten victims whilst unearthing skeletons in the closets of seemingly ordinary people, this show has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the British television landscape.

Set in the picturesque city of Oxford, this prequel to Inspector Morse is nothing short of a top-notch crime drama. With Shaun Evans taking up the mantle as young Endeavour Morse and Roger Allam as his trusty sidekick DI Fred Thursday, it's no wonder that audiences have been glued to their screens. This atmospheric series expertly weaves complex plots while delving into the personal lives and relationships of its protagonists, making for a truly captivating watch.

With breathtaking landscapes serving as a backdrop to grisly crimes, it's difficult not to be drawn in by this thrilling whodunit series. Set in the remote Scottish archipelago from which it takes its name, Douglas Henshall's portrayal of brooding DI Jimmy Perez has captivated audiences since day one. Weaving together intricate narratives with a slow-burning tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, this crime drama has proven itself to be a standout gem in the pantheon of British television.

A veritable rollercoaster ride through the world of corrupt police officers, this adrenaline-fueled crime drama has kept viewers on their toes from start to finish. Created by Jed Mercurio, it boasts a stellar cast including Adrian Dunbar as Superintendent Ted Hastings, Vicky McClure as DI Kate Fleming and Martin Compston as DS Steve Arnott. With heart-stopping twists at every turn and characters that are both morally ambiguous and utterly engaging, this series has cemented its place among UK's finest TV offerings.

When a young boy's body is discovered on a picturesque seaside town's beach, audiences were instantly hooked on this riveting whodunit. Starring David Tennant as DI Alec Hardy and Olivia Colman as DS Ellie Miller, it's no surprise that viewers have been enthralled by their tense partnership and compelling storylines. A masterclass in suspenseful storytelling and character-driven drama, this series has struck a chord with millions of fans across the globe.

Set against the backdrop of rural Yorkshire, this gritty yet heart-wrenching crime drama is not one for the faint-hearted. Sarah Lancashire delivers an outstanding performance as Catherine Cawood, a police sergeant battling personal demons whilst doggedly pursuing criminals in her seemingly idyllic community. With raw emotion and nail-biting tension aplenty, there's no denying that this show packs one hell of a punch.