Finding exceptional British detective series to enjoy in the U.S. can be a challenge, especially if you don’t subscribe to BritBox. However, platforms like Amazon Prime Video have stepped in with a rich selection of both modern and classic British crime dramas. Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling caper or a cozy whodunit, these series offer the perfect entertainment escapes for those chilly winter evenings.
Here’s a curated list of the **11 best British detective series** currently streaming on Prime Video, ranked from notable to outstanding. Keep in mind that rankings can be subjective, so feel free to explore each series regardless of their placements!
11. Whitechapel (2009-2013)
If you’re intrigued by the eerie depths of London’s criminal history, **Whitechapel** is a must-see. The series dives into each season’s distinct storyline, beginning with a contemporary murder that echoes the notorious Jack the Ripper killings. Subsequent seasons illuminate the violent saga of the Kray twins, offering viewers a compelling mix of history and fiction. All four seasons are available for streaming with a Prime subscription, perfect for any history buff.
10. The Devil’s Hour (2022-present)
**The Devil’s Hour** keeps viewers riveted with its intricate plot featuring Peter Capaldi as the enigmatic Gideon Shephard and Jessica Raine as Lucy Chambers, a social worker caught between two parallel lives. Fluctuating between chilling murder investigations and psychological depth, this series, renewed for a third season, is sure to create an unnerving yet enjoyable experience for any thriller lover.
9. Midsomer Murders (1997-present)
A quintessential example of a cozy British detective drama, **Midsomer Murders** transports you to idyllic countryside locales filled with quirky villagers and increasingly bizarre crimes. Spanning 24 seasons, it has become an irreplaceable staple of British television, with anticipation building for its 25th season. Catch up on this beloved series available for free with ads on Freevee.
8. Grantchester (2014-present)
An amalgamation of rich storytelling and period detail, **Grantchester** follows Detective Inspector Geordie Keating and the Vicars of Grantchester as they solve crimes while grappling with personal and societal challenges. The emotional depth and dramatic relationships showcased alongside mystery make it a standout, currently available on Prime, with season 10 anticipated soon.
7. Unforgotten (2015-present)
With its complex narratives, **Unforgotten** tackles cold cases and emotional twists as detectives DCI Cassie Stuart and DS Sunny Khan strive to bring justice for overlooked victims. While occasionally challenging in its storytelling, the brilliant intertwining of various plot threads leads to a cathartic payoff. All seasons are conveniently available on Prime.
6. Being (2011-2025)
Featuring Brenda Blethyn, **Vera** remains a gripping examination of murder against the melancholic backdrop of Northumberland. Renowned for its unique character development and suspenseful plots, the series will conclude with its upcoming fourteenth season, making it a poignant must-watch before it ends. It’s currently accessible on Prime.
5. The Fall (2013-2016)
For those who seek intense psychological drama, **The Fall** features Jamie Dornan as a dual-life serial killer and Gillian Anderson as the determined detective who hunts him down. This cat-and-mouse thriller is as chilling as it is captivating—available for your viewing pleasure on Prime now.
4. Shetland (2013-present)
With an exquisite narrative that delves into the complexities of the Shetland Islands, **Shetland** has maintained its status as a top-tier detective drama. Following DI Jimmy Perez and later DCI Ruth Calder, the series beautifully sketches gripping stories intertwined with emotional undertones, drawing viewers into the serene yet haunting landscapes. Find it streaming now on Prime.
3. Luther (2010-2019)
**Luther** stars Idris Elba as the impassioned and complex DCI John Luther, whose relentless pursuit of justice comes at a significant personal cost. His captivating dynamic with the criminal mastermind Alice, played by Ruth Wilson, elevates the show, making it a thrilling watch. This engaging series is currently available for streaming with a BritBox subscription on Prime.
2. Broadchurch (2013-2017)
With its stunning performances by David Tennant and Olivia Colman, **Broadchurch** tells the haunting story surrounding the murder of a young boy in a close-knit beach community. The show masterfully unravels the intricate web of secrets and despair that threatens to fracture the town’s unity, making it an emotional, must-watch experience now available on Prime.
1. Endeavour (2012-2023)
**Endeavour** deserves acclaim not only as a prequel to the iconic Inspector Morse but as a standalone gem. Shaun Evans shines in the titular role, navigating through complex moral dilemmas while crafting a nuanced relationship with DI Fred Thursday. Boasting breathtaking cinematography and intricate storylines, it encapsulates everything great about British detective dramas. Currently available for streaming with Prime, don’t miss out on this remarkable series!
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