For American audiences, trying to find somewhere to watch UK TV shows is an obstacle course of international rights, systems that can’t acquire shows, and ongoing changes to programming. Yet, it seems the rise in popularity of British television series is climbing. With shows like The Crowns, Downton Abbeys, Call the Midwife, and Peaky Blinders, more people are trying to cut the cord and turning to stream devices to fill the void. So, where can we find quality streaming services that bring a wide array of UK shows? Check out the following options to catch up on your British television series:
BritBox
BritBox launched in 2017, continuing to climb as one of the more extensive streaming options available. Put together through ITV and BBC, this streaming service comes with a wide array of British programming. Users will find current hits, original programs, and a wide variety of classic content. The subscription will cost you $6.99 a month, but the size of the catalog will keep you coming back for more.
BFI Player Classics
One of the newer streaming services offering UK content, BFI Player Classics hosts a pedigree of the British Film Institute. Although this platform is a smaller catalog of productions, you’ll still find over 200 British shows. For only $5.99 a month, users will love the series and movies geared toward fans of the British canon.
HBO Max
With collections from TCM, Warner Bros., Criterion, and Studio Ghibli, HBO Max offers unmatched scope for entertainment value. Users can find hours of entertainment available for British culture. There are classic shows, films, and new offerings available. This streaming service is committed to offering high-quality work from around the globe, including UK entertainment. For only $9.99 a month, HBO Max is perfect for viewers wanting to cut the cable.
PBS
It’s easy to forget that the Public Broadcasting Service is home to many historical pieces of content (like Masterpiece Theatre) and popular original programming. Although this streaming service doesn’t have the reach of Netflix or HBO Max, there’s still plenty to enjoy. This streaming service is free of cost so that it won’t impact your monthly budget.
Netflix
It doesn’t matter where you’re located; Netflix has content to fit your favorite genres. You’ll be able to find an entire genre page devoted to British TV shows. On top of that, users will find original content, dramas, and reality television from the UK. With offerings almost as comprehensive as Acorn TV or BritBox, Netflix is a high-value streaming service. Memberships start at $8.99 for the basic plan, with hours of British programming for all ages.
Plex
Cable cutters are going to love this media organizer. Not only can users organize all media content directly on this platform, but they can also enjoy live television with their subscription. There’s something for everyone with over 200 free channels to watch live worldwide. Even better, this streaming program is entirely free to use, although a few advertising breaks to fund the television series. Users can access Plex from smartphones, game consoles, and set-top boxes.
Acorn TV
One of the more affordable options for British TV, Acorn TV is one of the more popular options for streaming services. This platform has a wide variety of options for old shows, original programming, and current updated content that everyone will enjoy. For only $5.99 a month, Acorn TV is the standard programming option from the UK.
Sundance Now
Devoted to the legacy of the brand Sundance, this streaming service embraces British culture. Users will find an entire section dedicated to popular British shows, with most being a “dark mystery” brand that screams British culture. There’s also a healthy collection of original British programming that all viewers can enjoy for only $6.99 a month.
