british tv travel shows

Kirtey Verma | 27 March 2020

14 of the best travel tv shows to watch on demand.

Epic landscapes, interesting characters and cool cultures – we transport you to the best places in the world right from the comfort of your sofa, with these top travel shows on Netflix, iPlayer and others…

While you may be hitting pause on your adventures, you can still be transported somewhere wild – using your TV remote as your passport to exotic climes, instead.

Chances are you’ve seen everything travel legends David Attenborough and Simon Reeve have done, but if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, sweeping landscapes and interesting characters to meet, take a look at our round-up of th e best travel documentaries available to stream right now…

Best of all, you can start this journey on the couch.

Here are the best travel TV shows to watch on Netflix or on demand now...

1. the americas with simon reeve (2019).

What you’ll watch: It topped the list for best TV show at our 2020 Reader Travel Awards, but if you haven’t yet seen  The Americas with Simon Reeve , put it straight on top of your must-watch list.

And when you’ve binged on his journeys hiking through the Rocky Mountains, hanging out with the US Border Patrol in Texas and discovering a tropical paradise in Costa Rica, you can turn to his other documentaries: the Caribbean, Australia, the Mediterranean, and Indian Ocean.

If there’s anywhere this man hasn’t been or seen, we challenge you to find it.

Where to watch it: The Americas with Simon Reeve is available to watch in full on BBC iPlayer . Plus see Simon accept his Wanderlust award !

2. Race Across The World (2020)

What you'll watch:  Limited cash, no smartphones and forget about internet access – basically all the ingredients for an epic off-the-grid adventure.

In the latest series of the BBC's  Race Across The World , you can follow five teams as they race the length of Latin America, starting in Mexico City and ending in Ushuaia in Argentina, the most southerly city in the world.

Married couples and familial bonds are put to the test, as they weave friendships in the most unexpected of places on their way to the finish line. And if you can't wait until next week's episode, you can binge on series one as well. What's better than that?

Where to watch it: Catch up on series two of Race Across The World on BBC iPlayer . And read our filming locations guide .

3. Joanna Lumley's Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti (2020)

Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti is on ITV Player now (ITV)

What you'll watch: She's one of our favourite tour guides, taking us everywhere from India to the mighty Silk Road  – it is, of course, the absolutely fabulous Joanna Lumley.

Let her lead you into a lesser-seen side of the Caribbean in her new two-part documentary, Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti, which begins in a boxing gym in the lively Cuban capital.

Keep watching as she wanders the streets of Havana, discovers  Hemingway’s favourite beach and explores Fidel Castro’s hometown, before  making her way over the Windward Passage to end her adventure with trips to ancient mountain fortresses and a mystical voodoo ceremony in Haiti.

Where to watch it: Catch up on  Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti  on ITV Player   now. 

4. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat (2018)

What to watch:   If delicious food is at the very top of your reasons-to-travel list,  Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat  is the Netflix show to tune into.

Culinary capers abound as loveable chef  Samin Nosrat takes us to Italy, Japan, Mexico and California to show us how the title elements are key to the cuisine of each country.

Where to watch it: See   Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat  on Netflix now. 

5. Ugly Delicious (2020)

What to watch: H ungry for more? Try Netflix's  Ugly Delicious  – there are two series to devour, as chef David Chang takes us to culinary hotspots across the world, showing us why good cooking is universal.

He meets everyone from pizza purists in Brooklyn and Naples to trying Viet-Cajun fusion cuisine in Houston. 

Where to watch it: Catch the new series of  Ugly Delicious  on Netflix . 

6. Night on Earth (2020)

What to watch:  Even when you're travelling, you don't get to see some of the most incredible sights - because some of them happen under the very cover of darkness.

In Netflix's Night on Earth , you can see this world open up before you, witnessing the secret lives of lions, bats and monkeys. Eerie and visually compelling stuff.

Where to watch it:  Night on Earth is on Netflix now. 

7. James May: Our Man In Japan (2020)

What you'll watch:  We know you loved Japan with Sue Perkins , but now that's it not available on iPlayer… how about racing through the island country with James May, instead?

Starting on the chilly northern island of Hokkaido, James embarks on a journey south to the balmy beaches of Shikoku and Kyushu, while meeting samurai in Honshu, sampling street food in Osaka and, of course, tackling the Suzuka Circuit on his way. 

Where to watch it:  Watch  James May: Our Man in Japan  on Amazon Prime now. 

8. Travel Man: 48 Hours in… (2019)

What you'll watch:  Richard Ayoade's droll two-day jaunts through cities across the world has provided us all with laughs since 2015.

While 2019's series was his last as lead presenter, we can still look forward to more Travel Man in the future as Hugo Boss – aka the the comedian formerly known as Joe Lycett – takes over the role.

If you haven't seen 48 Hours in… Amsterdam , it's the perfect episode to get a feel for Hugo's personality and learn more about the city's culture, cuisine and canals. 

Where to watch it: Find the past ten series of Travel Man: 48 Hours in… on All 4 .

9. Great Railway Journeys with Michael Portillo (2019)

What you'll watch:  Thousands of British commuters have  plenty to say about UK train travel, but in the hands of Michael Portillo, the divisive subject matter seems to take on a golden glow of nostalgia.

You know best, after all – you voted for the BBC's  Great Railway Journeys  as one of your top TV programmes in the last year.

Delving into the history of British rail, Michael reveals things we never knew about our local stations, including how an unlikely collaboration between London’s Crossrail railway project and a conservation charity is helping to protect birdlife in Series 11's Limehouse to Rochford episode. 

Where to watch it:  Look out for your local station on  Great British Railway Journeys   on iPlayer. 

10. Around the World in 80 Days (1989)

What to watch:  It's an oldie, but definitely a goodie – what could be better than staying in and getting a glimpse of how the world used to be with TV icon Michael Palin?

In Around the World in 80 Days , Michael follows in the footsteps of its main character Phileas Fogg, setting off on an epic adventure from London's Reform Club across the world.

Close shaves, missed connections and inevitable delays await as he desperately attempts to meet the 80-day deadline in time. A delicious throwback to a simpler time. 

Where to watch it:  Watch  Around the World in 80 Days on iPlayer . 

11. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown (2013)

What to watch:  The late Anthony Bourdain's Emmy-winning travel series is a must-watch for any traveller whose adventures are driven by a passion for excellent food.

Parts Unknown sees the world-renowned chef and documentarian delve into cuisines, cultures and politics in countries across the globe. Essentially, he eats his way around the world. 

With 12 seasons covering countless destinations (Vietnam and New York said to be two of his favourites), the later seasons take viewers on an off-the-beaten-track culinary journey through Armenia, Uruguay, Myanmar and beyond. 

Where to watch it: You can stream the series on Amazon Prime now.

12. Dark Tourist (2018)

What to watch: If you've watched the majority of travel TV already, here's one that may have slipped by you.

TV presenter David Farrier deep dives into so-called 'dark tourism': worldwide interest in visiting sites of nuclear disasters, destinations marred by danger or even death. If you've been to Chernobyl and Pripyat in Ukraine, you'll understand the fascination.

You can expect to see a trip to Turkmenistan, a visit to Pablo Escobar's former playground, Medellin in Colombia, as well as an excursion to Tomioka in Japan, the ghost town left behind after residents were evacuated following the Fukushima nuclear disaster. 

Where to watch it: You can stream one season of  Dark Tourist now on Netflix .

And… anything narrated by Sir David Attenborough

13. our planet (2019).

14. Seven Worlds, One Planet (2019)

What you'll watch: Of course, no list of travel documentaries is complete without an appearance from the legend that is Sir David Attenborough.

Most of his back catalogue is listed on Netflix, including the original  Our Planet and the BBC's iconic   Planet Earth  and  Frozen Planet.  

You can also listen to Sir David's dulcet tones on BBC iPlayer - as he takes us through  Seven Worlds, One Planet , introducing us to some of the globe's most hostile habitats and remote landscapes, while narrating the fascinating behaviour of the local creatures, such as golden snub-nosed monkeys and grey-headed albatross chicks . 

Where to watch it: Find  Our Planet   along with most of Sir David's past shows on Netflix or catch up on  Seven Worlds, One Planet on iPlayer now. 

Simon Reeve on filming BBC's   The Americas

12 epic nature and wildlife documentaries you can watch now, behind the scenes of  our planet with alastair fothergill, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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50 Best Travel Shows Of All Time (& How To Watch Them)

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Most of us can't reasonably travel all of the time. Thankfully, we can live vicariously through our screens when we cannot be globetrotting ourselves. Travel shows are a dime a dozen, mainly because many of us would rather explore than deal with our responsibilities. But how do you know which shows are worth your time? That depends mainly on your tastes and interests, but we can provide some solid starting points.

From celebrities heading their own adventurous docuseries to food-loving vagabonds visiting remote destinations, travel shows can show us scenes and cultures we would otherwise have no concept of. In fact, television often inspires travel, and watching world wanderers eat their way through exotic destinations is a great way to help plan your next trip. These 50 series are some of the best TV has to offer, and even if you don't make it through all of them, you may find a gem that piques your particular interest.

50. Nomad with Carlton McCoy

Classically trained chef and expert sommelier Carlton McCoy seeks out the best in international cuisine, music, and art in the CNN series "Nomad with Carlton McCoy." Premiering in May 2022, McCoy travels everywhere in the travel series, from the overlooked pleasures of Mississippi to the corners of Ghana. For McCoy, the show's focus lies in adventures and delights found away from the well-worn paths frequented by tourists. Instead, he enjoys savoring hometown favorites from local populations. What McCoy may lack in experience and poise, he and "Nomad" make up for with its premise to go behind the scenes of some of the world's most recognizable locales. 

The first "Nomad with Carlton McCoy" season is available to stream on  Prime Video with Discovery+.

49. Down to Earth with Zac Efron

The world is a beautiful place, and it's easy to showcase such on film. This is why a travel show has to be about more than just pretty scenery, and "Down to Earth with Zac Efron" delivers in a big way. The series puts a highly informative spin on the genre by taking viewers on whirlwind journeys worldwide in search of health secrets. We're not talking about avocado toast or juice cleanses, either.

Efron and wellness expert Darin Olien visit destinations to learn about topics like renewable energy, superfoods, and water quality. Have you ever heard of a water sommelier? The experts know a thing or two about what kind of water makes our bodies happy, and a "Down to Earth" episode in France consults one of the few professionals in existence. The series also has episodes on a seed bank stocked for the end of the world, Iceland's Blue Lagoon, and the Amazon rainforest.

Although "Down to Earth" earned Zac Efron a Daytime Emmy, lack of viewership caused the series to be canceled quickly. It had one season at Netflix and was picked up for another at The CW, only to be on the chopping block two episodes later. Lack of quantity does not mean lack of quality, though, and the "High School Musical" star's travel show is a solid viewing.

You can watch "Down to Earth with Zach Efron" on Netflix and The CW .

48. The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals

Sometimes, a typical hotel on vacation doesn't cut it, with intrepid travelers opting for more unique and luxurious digs during their stay abroad. The Netflix original series "The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals" explores everything from treehouses to alpaca farms to rent worldwide. Hosted by Megan Batoon, Jo Franco, and Luis D. Ortiz, the show reminds viewers that far more than cheap motels and chain hotels are available to make a vacation even more authentic and unique. While some of the rentals visited on the show run on the pricier side, these are balanced out with more cost-effective rentals for travelers not looking to shell out top dollar on accommodations.

"The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals" is available to stream on  Netflix .

47. Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

Academy Award-nominated actor Stanley Tucci reconnects with his ancestral roots in the CNN travel series "Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy." Premiering in 2021, the show has Tucci visit different regions in Italy to learn more about the local cuisine, culture, and history in a sun-soaked tour of the Mediterranean country. Though the major tourist centers of Italy are among the destinations in Tucci's tour, the host takes the time to explore restaurants and locations off the beaten track to reveal a more authentic Italian experience. Buoyed by Tucci's understated yet quietly charismatic presence, "Searching for Italy" has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, winning two for its achievement in nonfiction television. 

Available to purchase and rent through most digital retailers, "Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy" is also available to stream on Discovery+ .

46. Mysterious Islands

Accomplished pilot and explorer Kellee Edwards invites viewers to join her on his globe-trotting adventures with the Travel Channel series "Mysterious Islands." Edwards particularly takes an interest in some of the most remote islands on Earth, visiting them with her private seaplane to examine them from above and by foot. A refreshing contrast to the hustle-and-bustle of travel shows revolving around heavily populated locales, "Mysterious Islands" offers a more serene, nature-focused look at isolated getaways. Before hosting "Mysterious Islands," Edwards hosted and published a travel vlog through her website that catapulted her into the public eye.

"Mysterious Islands" is currently available to stream on  fuboTV and Philo .

45. Ride with Norman Reedus

"Cool" is the only way to describe "Ride with Norman Reedus." Cruising on a slew of bikes, "The Boondock Saints" and "The Walking Dead" actor meets up with a different travel partner in each episode to explore the open road of America and international destinations. With six seasons as of 2023, the series has become a lasting one on AMC.

Norman Reedus isn't the first to make a travel show centered on biker culture, so what makes it so unique? His vibe, for one. However, it's also the particular variety that his program offers viewers. Reedus does not stick to just one style or motorcycle manufacturer; he also has many celebrity guests. He has the bikers' seal of approval.

From Dave Chapelle to Keanu Reeves, you'll be surprised that some of your favorite celebrities ride and are just as captivating in an environment you don't usually see them in. Fans of Reedus' work will also be happy to see quite a few familiar faces as his "The Walking Dead" co-stars, including Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Steven Yeun, join in on the fun.

You can watch "Ride with Norman Reedus" on AMC+ .

44. Epic Drives

Car expert Arthur St. Antoine entered the pole position with the automobile travel series "Epic Drives," premiering in 2010. Backed with a whole fleet of cars, often with some of the world's coolest and fastest sports and luxury automobiles, St. Antoine opens the engine up and cuts loose on roads around the globe. From traversing the Pacific Coast Highway to showcasing winter driving tips on the frozen roads of Scandinavia, St. Antoine guides viewers through truly stunning international roadways. Though "Epic Rides" puts its slick automobiles in the forefront, the travel series is also keenly aware of how to capture the natural beauty of the gorgeous destinations visited. 

"Epic Drives" is available to stream on Roku and Prime Video  with a MotorTrend extension.

43. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Prolific chef, author, and television personality Andrew Zimmern delves into the off-kilter local cuisine from around the world that outsiders may view as strange in the Travel Channel series "Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern." Running steadily since 2006, "Bizarre Foods" has become a large television franchise in and of itself, spawning spinoff series and specials, while the main series has undergone several rebrands. Later, carrying the subtitle "Delicious Destinations," Zimmern's unique perspective on local cuisine proved as engaging as ever. Traveling anywhere from remote settlements in the untamed wilderness to local gastronomy usually avoided by tourists, Zimmern doesn't just focus on the cuisine and preparation itself but where the key ingredients come from. 

A Travel Channel staple for over a decade, "Bizarre Foods With Andrew Zimmern" is currently available to stream on Max and Discovery+ .

42. Samantha Brown's Places to Love

Prolific travel television personality Samantha Brown created the acclaimed PBS series "Samantha Brown's Places to Love," which premiered in 2018. Markedly different from her previous programming on the Travel Channel, Brown's PBS show offers ways for prospective travelers to blend in more naturally with places they visit rather than disrupt local scenes. Featuring a more subdued approach, Brown presents a more authentic, understated cultural experience in the destinations she showcases. "Places to Love" was widely praised for its approach to travel programming and won two Daytime Emmy Awards for its outstanding achievement.

"Samantha Brown's Places to Love" is available to watch through local PBS outlets.

41. A Cook's Tour

Chef and author Anthony Bourdain's first foray into travel television was on the Food Network series "A Cook's Tour," which was filmed while Bourdain was simultaneously writing a book about his experiences. Running for two seasons from 2002-2003, the show took Bourdain around the globe to sample local cuisine and culture, with Asia being a prominent recurring destination. In Variety's review of the first season, "A Cook's Tour" was praised for focusing on destinations less well-documented by other travel shows while providing a man-on-the-street perspective. The series offers a fascinating look at Bourdain discovering his voice as a television host while still possessing his acerbic wit.

"A Cook's Tour" is currently available to stream in full on Prime Video and Tubi .

40. America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston

Notable writer and commentator Baratunde Thurston expanded from his usual political fare to launch the PBS travel series "America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston." Thurston travels around the United States, from Death Valley to the Appalachian Mountains, to document America's distinct and immersive outdoor destinations. More than simply hiking and camping, Thurston engages in local activities, including trying his hand at collecting wild rice and surfing, to better appreciate local cultures. Thurston takes the premise behind "America Outdoors" more liberally than most travel shows with similar scopes, with an entire episode reframing outdoor culture in Los Angeles. 

An engaging look at the United States' relationship with its outdoor spaces, "America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston" is available to stream on Prime Video with PBS Living or PBS Documentaries and PBS with WOSU Passport.

39. Travel Man

Popular British actor and comedian Richard Ayoade launched the breakneck travel series "Travel Man," blending comedy with hectic itineraries. Paired with a celebrity guest, Ayoade and his travel companion have 48 hours to take in the sights and cuisine in different international cities. Starting with the show's tenth season, Ayoade was replaced by British comedian Joe Lycett, but the overall formula remains largely the same. Buoyed by Ayoade and Lycett's hilarious personalities and its limited-time premise, "Travel Man" is as freewheeling and fun as travelogs get.

"Travel Man: 48 Hours in..." is available to stream on Prime Video and  Peacock .

38. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Beloved chef and restauranteur David Chang covers all the most important meals of the day around the world in the original series "Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner." Joined by different celebrity guest stars in each episode, including Seth Rogen and Kate McKinnon, Chang learns what constitutes traditional daily meals in major cities from Marrakech to Phnom Penh. Elevated by thoughtful and entertaining discussions between Chang and his guests, the series offers a broader perspective on the meals we take for granted each day. As with Chang's other travel and cooking shows, the international cuisine-driven travel series focuses on authenticity and a society's connection to its defining food. 

"Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner" is available to stream on  Netflix  and  Prime Video with Fuse+.

37. No Passport Required

With a country as richly vast and varied as the United States, there are plenty of interesting travel spots without ever having to go abroad. This underlying truth provides the basic premise to the PBS travel series "No Passport Required," which is focused on exploring the legacy of immigrant traditions and cuisines within the country. Hosted by noted chef Marcus Samuelsson, six major American cities are showcased as Samuelsson examines the immigrant legacy and food that lovingly define each locale. Going beyond the typical fare that colors each city's perception, Samuelsson meets with everyone from the Armenian community in Los Angeles to the Chinese legacy behind Las Vegas, showcasing some of the cultures that help to make each city great.

"No Passport Required" is currently available to stream on Roku ,  Prime Video with PBS Living or PBS Documentaries, and PBS.

36. Big City, Little Budget

The prospect of living in or visiting major American cities isn't cheap, but host Oneika Raymond guides audiences through more cost-effective approaches to modern metropolises in "Big City, Little Budget." Produced by the Travel Channel, the web series has Raymond visiting cities from sea to shining sea while also providing tips on how to navigate each place without having a robust budget at one's disposal. From frugal dining tips to which neighborhoods won't break the bank, "Big City, Little Budget" offers invaluable advice. With its bite-sized episodes, Raymond offers clear and concise guidance through cities from Miami to New York as she leans into approaching each destination on a budget without compromising the fun.

"Big City, Little Budget" is available to stream through the Travel Channel's YouTube channel .

35. I'll Have What Phil's Having

After helming the long-running sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," prolific television writer and producer Phil Rosenthal turned to travelog hosting, starting with the 2015 series "I'll Have What Phil Is Having." Running on PBS for six episodes, the show follows Rosenthal as he travels around the world to check out the local food scenes. Joined by celebrity guests like Martin Short and Ray Romano, Rosenthal's comedic perspective helps give the usual travel show proceedings a more engaging approach. Though short-lived, "I'll Have What Phil Is Having" provides an early look at the type of travel programming Rosenthal would host to greater success on Netflix.

"I'll Have What Phil's Having" is currently available to stream on Roku , Prime Video with PBS Living or PBS Documentaries, Pluto TV , and PBS.

34. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost

Even the same iconic locales can offer vastly different experiences depending on the visitor's financial situation, and this dichotomy is explored in the travel series "Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost." Hosted by siblings Alex and Marko Ayling, the two showcase how to navigate major travel destinations on a budget or take advantage of the visit when flush with cash. Whether they're discussing different approaches to visiting Hong Kong or trying the varying cuisines of France, the Ayling brothers provide plenty of information and varying perspectives on the same destinations. One of the things that work in favor of "Basic Versus Baller" is that the show's premise isn't necessarily binary, as tourists can mix the frugal and luxurious options provided as they see fit. 

A dual-perspective on the travelog formula, "Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost" is currently available to stream on Hulu , Prime Video with Tastemade, and Peacock .

33. Ugly Delicious

Chef and author David Chang looks at the cultural history and deeper meaning behind popular cuisine in the Netflix original series "Ugly Delicious." Premiering in 2018, Chang and a group of celebrity guests explore the origins of different foods through extensive interviews and traveling to informative points from the cuisine's origins. A thoughtful discussion about food and its inextricable links to societal identity, "Ugly Delicious" blends serious insight with Chang's quick wit to great effect. Widely acclaimed for its approach to asking the hard questions about cuisine's impact on culture and cultural perception, the series was nominated for an Emmy Award.

"Ugly Delicious" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

32. United Shades of America

The United States is, like any nation, an incredibly complicated and occasionally contentious place to live, from sea to shining sea, across a variety of communities. Comedian W. Kamau Bell spotlights these communities, their traditions, and their struggles in the CNN documentary series "United Shades of America." From speaking with indigenous communities in South Dakota to the extensive Black populations in the Appalachians, Bell provides an all-encompassing tour of the modern American experience. Bell's thoughtful approach to admittedly somber subject matter paints a more complete look at the country and the many voices that bring it to life as he travels nationwide.

The winner of multiple Emmy Awards for its sweeping work, "United Shades of America" is available to stream on Discovery+  and  Max  and purchase and rent via online retailers.

31. Booze Traveler

A lot can be learned about a culture through its gastronomy, and host Jack Maxwell is determined to get to the bottom of this search for identity – and the bottom of many bottles – in the Travel Channel show "Booze Traveler." Exploring domestic and international destinations, Maxwell reveals how drinking culture informs daily life in places like Seoul and Dublin while partaking in local spirits himself. With Maxwell's easygoing personality at the forefront, "Booze Traveler" looks at how communities bond over their love of drink. As a former South Boston bartender, Maxwell lends an everyday perspective to his global travels. He is more interested in looking for a good time than asking the hard questions as the show breezily chugs along.

A fittingly rambunctious travelog, "Booze Traveler" is available to stream on Discovery+ and rent and purchase through most digital retailers.

30. Street Food

While acclaimed filmmaker and documentarian David Gelb focuses primarily on haute cuisine with his award-winning "Chef's Table" series, his other Netflix original show, "Street Food," takes a different perspective. Rather than spotlight a single cook per episode like his previous work, Gelb examines an entire city's street food scene, exploring the origins of the cuisine that defines it. From the robust marks of Singapore to hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, "Street Food" and its rotating set of hosts provide an authentic culinary portrait of the show's destinations. Gelb's everyman approach and broader scope per episode, in contrast to "Chef's Table," is an effective change that "Street Food" takes full advantage of.

The first season of "Street Food" is set in Asia, the second in Latin America, and the third in the United States, with the series currently available to stream on Netflix .

29. The Kindness Diaries

Connecting with your fellow humans and experiencing people of different backgrounds and cultures is one of the enormous benefits of traveling; for some, it's their entire purpose. In a way, "The Kindness Diaries" encapsulates the spirit of travel, as host Leon Logothetis traverses the globe depending on the kindness of strangers.

Equipped only with a bright yellow motorbike swapped for an equally yellow vintage convertible in the second season, Leon Logothetis searches for kind-hearted people to supply his needs on his travels. This includes food, accommodations, and gasoline. You'll be pleasantly surprised how far one can get in the world just by simply asking — though, he does sleep in his motorbike's sidecar when necessary. While the destinations range from all over the United States to Europe, Cambodia, and Vietnam, this feel-good travel doc is more about the people we meet along the way. Even though "The Kindness Diaries" only has two seasons behind it, the beautiful souls depicted stay with viewers for the long haul.

You can stream "The Kindness Diaries" on Discovery+ .

28. Gordon's Great Escape

Famous chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay decided to visit the originating countries of some of his favorite cuisines in the British television series "Gordon's Great Escape." In an interview with The Guardian , Ramsay shared his lifelong love of Indian food and chronicled his first trip to India in the show. Beyond his visit to India, Ramsay filmed the second set of interviews exploring other parts of Southeast Asia and its cuisine, including Thailand and Vietnam. Offering Ramsay a chance to escape the limelight he was experiencing in America and the United Kingdom, the show reveals him rediscovering his love of cooking while learning about overseas culinary traditions.

"Gordon's Great Escape" is available to stream through Prime Video , Tubi , Roku , and Fox.

27. Long Way Down

Actors and longtime motorcycle aficionados Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman reunited for another international motorcycle voyage with the British travel series "Long Way Down." A follow-up to their 2004 series "Long Way Round," the 2007 offering has the two bikers travel from Scotland all the way to Cape Town, South Africa. Along the way, the pair rides through 18 countries by motorcycle as they traverse Europe and the length of Africa. Even for those not particularly enamored by motorcycles, "Long Way Down" is a fascinating look at life on the open road across two continents anchored by two charismatic leads.

"Long Way Down" is currently available to stream on Apple TV+ .

26. Globe Trekker

One of the longest-running travel shows from the United Kingdom is "Globe Trekker," originally broadcast from 1994 to 2016. With a rotating set of hosts for each episode, the British series highlights a different region and provides audiences with a thorough guide to the sights and culture. More than simply presenting the major tourist attractions, the hosts examine local traditions, including interviews with local industries beyond tourism and hospitality. With such an impressive breadth of episodes, "Globe Trekker" set an enduring standard for travel programming in the United Kingdom against which all other travel shows are to be judged. 

Unfortunately, "Globe Trekker" is unavailable to stream or purchase in the United States.

25. Man v. Food

Eating challenges can say a lot about a culture, from the type of cuisine competitors consume to the quantity eaten to succeed. Actor and television personality Adam Richman took it upon himself to travel all over the United States to face all manner of eating challenges in the Travel Channel series "Man v. Food." Heading to a different destination each episode, Richman singlehandedly subjects himself to various regional eating challenges, from consuming massive steaks to an entire platter of chili dogs in a limited time. "Man v. Food" gave the Travel Channel its highest-rated debut upon its premiere in 2008 (per the Los Angeles Times ), with the show revived in 2017 and Richman replaced by current host Casey Webb.

An amusing look at different American regions by the eating challenges that help define it, "Man v. Food" is available to purchase and rent through most online retailers and to stream on Discovery+ and Max .

24. Tales by Light

If a vacation isn't documented and shared on Instagram, did it actually take place? Photography in some of Earth's most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places is the central premise behind the Australian travel series "Tales by Light." Each episode follows different professional photographers who tell an immersive story about exotic destinations through their pictures and videos. The perfect travel series for the social media-oriented generation, "Tales by Light" delivers truly breathtaking photographs and videos from the overlooked corners of the world.

All three beautifully rendered "Tales by Light" seasons are currently available to stream on Netflix .

23. Conan Without Borders

As an extension of his popular talk show on TBS, veteran host Conan O'Brien took his series on the road on multiple occasions to experience different cultures around the world. These special episodes were compiled in the online "Conan Without Borders," as O'Brien eschewed his typical talk show format. Traveling everywhere from Cuba to South Korea, O'Brien explores the societal morays of each of these destinations with his usual comedic antics and insight. A welcome change of pace from his usual formula, O'Brien blends biting political commentary with a genuine appreciation for local cultures, with "Conan Without Borders" winning an Emmy for its efforts.

"Conan Without Borders" is currently available to stream on Max .

22. The Moaning of Life

When British comedian and actor Karl Pilkington faced something of a midlife crisis, he decided to examine the lives and cultures of others around the world to gain a better sense of perspective (per Cinema Blend ). The resulting international tour was filmed for the British travel series "The Moaning of Life," as Pilkington contemplated love, life, and mortality on the road. To expand his view on the human condition, Pilkington visits drive-thru weddings in Las Vegas, professional mourners in Taiwan, and fertility clinics in Japan. The Hollywood Reporter's review of "The Moaning of Life" complimented the show's existential subject matter and Pilkington's hilarious perspective on the world to make its messaging less somber.

A good-natured look at life, death, and everything in between with an international scope, "The Moaning of Life" is available for purchase and rent on most major digital retailers, including Prime Video and Vudu .

21. Long Way Round

The first of a trilogy of documentary series, 2004's "Long Way Round" puts Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman in the driver's seat as they ride motorcycles from London to New York City eastward. The 19,000-mile journey is undertaken to promote the international humanitarian causes spearheaded by UNICEF, while McGregor and Boorman endure pitfalls and injuries in their journies around the globe. Inspired by the experience, McGregor and Boorman wrote a book detailing their journey, including McGregor adopting an orphan encountered along the way. The kind of celebrity road trip that doesn't feel overly pretentious or self-indulgent, McGregor and Boorman provide a unique perspective as they embark on a truly epic journey.

"Long Way Round" is currently available to stream on Apple TV+ .

20. Three Sheets

Not all cuisine is solid, which is why the 2008 travel series "Three Sheets" showcased a decidedly liquid diet as it visited drinking cultures around the world. Hosted by comedian Zane Lamprey, the show highlights local alcoholic beverages at a multitude of destinations, learning about their history and cultural impact. Of course, this examination goes beyond a mere history lesson, with Zamprey partaking in the beverages, usually in impressive quantities. Part travel series and part televised pub crawl, Lamprey is often accompanied on his journeys by a group of guests, including his college friend Steve McKenna.

After starting on MOJO HD, "Three Sheets" was broadcast on various platforms before ending its run on Spike in 2011. Most of the series is currently available to buy on Prime Video .

19. Worth It

The popular Buzzfeed series "Worth It" offers three different and simultaneous perspectives on the worldwide dining scene in each episode. The show has the three hosts, Steven Lim, Andrew Ilnyckyj, and Adam Bianchi, order three different dishes from a range of price points at varying destinations. This can entail a cheap cup of coffee or designer espresso costing hundreds of dollars while visiting Tokyo. The underlying question is whether or not the dishes are worth the price. Winning a Streamy Award, "Worth It" has been credited with changing how people approach food criticism online, actively comparing quality with price points worldwide (per SBS ).

Available to stream on Hulu , "Worth It" helps viewers know how best to check out the food scenes and types of cuisine in several countries.

18. Somebody Feed Phil

After getting his start travel hosting on PBS, Phil Rosenthal went bigger and better for the Netflix original series "Somebody Feed Phil" in 2018. While maintaining the broader premise of his previous show, "I'll Have What Phil Is Having," Rosenthal's Netflix series feels like a more personal experience for its host. Occasionally checking in with his brother, parents, and son while he is on the road, Rosenthal continues to sample local cuisine from around the world. As Rosenthal visits major international cities, he spotlights local charities and nonprofit organizations active in the destinations, providing a more community-based scope.

"Somebody Feed Phil" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

17. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

Popular British comedian Jack Whitehall and his longtime television producer father, Michael, take their paternal dynamic on the road for the Netflix original series "Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father." With a decided focus on familial comedy, the Whitehalls find themselves in countless awkward and hilarious situations worldwide as they bond together over their international trips. The two men learn about the cultures they visit, from Cambodia to Turkey, with the final season bringing the father-son duo back to the United Kingdom. Though Jack and Michael Whitehall's antics are played for laughs, the societies they visit are largely treated with the utmost respect as they travel through the jungle and desert together.

All five "Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father" seasons are available to stream on Netflix .

16. Extreme Engagement

Journalists and producers PJ Madam and Tim Noonan decided to put their then-recent engagement to the test around the world for the Netflix original series "Extreme Engagement." The miniseries has the happy couple travel around the globe for over a year to see how their relationship endures. While the premise feels relatively scripted, rather than providing an authentically spontaneous show, "Extreme Engagement" offers a romantic twist on the travelog format. Noonan and Madam visit romantic destinations that keep the focus on love and lasting relationships, from observing ancient fertility rituals to meeting cultural practices promoting romantic love.

A love odyssey that spans the islands of Indonesia to remote villages in Africa, "Extreme Engagement" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

15. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

Restauranteur and television host Guy Fieri has become something of a cultural icon himself, and Fieri's flagship series is the enormously popular "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Premiering in 2006 on the Food Network, the show has Fieri travel across North America, stopping at diners, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and dive bars to sample their signature cuisine. Occasionally joined by an impressive set of celebrity guest stars, Fieri has visited hundreds of locations as part of his cross-country odyssey. Due to the sheer popularity of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," many of these spots have seen a noticeable increase in business following episode airings.

As the gold standard among Fieri's travel and food reality shows, "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" is available to rent and purchase via most online retailers and to stream on Discovery+ and Max .

14. Survivorman

Travel isn't just luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts; for some, vacations involve roughing it in the wild and returning to nature through camping and other immersive experiences. The Canadian travel and wilderness survival series "Survivorman" takes these sensibilities to their extreme as host Les Stroud spends over a week alone in remote locations. With only a handful of tools and the clothes on his back, Stroud has to make do with local flora and fauna to survive these conditions for the allotted time. As a much more stripped-down and extreme approach than "Man vs. Wild," Stroud takes audiences everywhere, from the frozen expanse of Alaska to the predator-filled Amazon rainforest.

For those looking for the ultimate survivalist approach to the world's most unforgiving locations, "Survivorman" is available to stream on Discovery+ and Roku and to rent and purchase through most digital retailers.

13. An Idiot Abroad

When comedian Karl Pilkington's friends and frequent collaborators Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant learned he had no interest in world travel, the two created the series "An Idiot Abroad" in response. Capitalizing on Pilkington's often innocently naive worldview, the British travel show is primarily played for laughs as Pilkington makes wry observations about the destinations he visits. Not content to simply let Pilkington take in the picturesque sights, sounds, and cuisine, Gervais and Merchant have Pilkington endure several challenges, including bungee-jumping in New Zealand and swimming with sharks in Australia. MSN's review of "An Idiot Abroad" praised the mishaps for Pilkington's voyages orchestrated by Gervais and Merchant, with Pilkington's odd perspective and observations elevating the entire show.

A humorous look at the most gorgeous international locales, "An Idiot Abroad" is available to purchase and rent on most digital retailers, including Prime Video and Vudu .

12. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

After two seasons on the Food Network with "A Cook's Tour," Bourdain made the leap to the Travel Channel to host his popular travel series "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations." Running for nine seasons from 2005-2012, Bourdain upped the scope considerably from his previous series while still retaining its everyman qualities. Backed by a more ambitious production, Bourdain visits a wider range of locales while incorporating his love of pop culture and inviting celebrity guests, including Bill Murray and Sean Penn. One of the more notable episodes sees Bourdain and his film crew trapped in Beirut during the 2006 Israel-Lebanon War. "No Reservations" went on to win two Emmy Awards and multiple nominations as a testament to the show's captivating perspective on the world. 

"Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations" is available to purchase from most online retailers and to stream on Discovery+ , Max , and through the Travel Channel website with a linked television provider.

11. Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

After exploring and experiencing culinary traditions in Southeast Asia firsthand in his first travel series, chef Gordon Ramsay expanded the scope of his follow-up show " Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted " to encompass the whole world. Premiering on National Geographic in 2019, "Uncharted" has Ramsay visit different countries to learn about their cuisine and cooking techniques and take advantage of local thrills. From white water rafting through Laos to climbing up Alaskan mountains and glaciers, Ramsay showcases a more outdoorsy side of himself beyond the world of restaurants and kitchens. In Forbes' review of the series, Ramsay's genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter and destinations he visits was praised for elevating the premise and showing a new side to the temperamental chef.

"Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted" is available to stream through Disney+ and Hulu .

10. Chef's Table

After directing the universally acclaimed documentary film "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" in 2011, filmmaker David Gelb teamed up with Netflix for its original documentary series, "Chef's Table." Premiering in 2015, the show focuses on a different cook for each episode, from a Korean monk renowned for her kimchi to Mexican street food in Philadelphia. With its highly detailed and stylized cinematography and in-depth portraits of its subjects, "Chef's Table" is one of the best documentary series currently on the air. "Chef's Table" brings a global scope to cuisine while never losing sight of the very grounded and human story behind each of the cooks that make every dish possible. The show has been nominated for multiple Emmy Awards as it shines a light on everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall dining locations. 

The main "Chef's Table" series and its numerous spinoffs are available to stream on Netflix .

9. The Amazing Race

In contrast to "Survivor," which keeps its contestants in a single remote location for an entire season, CBS' long-running reality series "The Amazing Race" takes full advantage of its global scope. Teams of two speed through different legs around the world, following clues and completing challenges to gain an edge. On the air since 2001, "The Amazing Race" has showcased some of the most stunning locales on the planet while pitting its teams in genuinely thrilling competitions each season. With many seasons of "The Amazing Race" offering a journey with contestants circumnavigating the globe, the travel element to the reality competition series is unmistakably at the forefront.

"The Amazing Race" is available to stream on Hulu , Netflix , and Paramount+ .

8. Expedition Unknown

With so many legends and historical mysteries around the world demanding answers, archaeologist Josh Gates sets out to find the truth in the Discovery Channel series "Expedition Unknown." From cryptozoology searches for mythical creatures like Bigfoot to attempting to discover clues linked to the lost city of Atlantis, Gates positions himself as a real-life Indiana Jones. Part globe-trotting history lesson, part debunking widely known myths, "Expedition Unknown" provides a fun twist on international travel off the beaten path. As an immensely popular show, "Expedition Unknown" has spawned several spinoff specials, miniseries, and after shows as Gates widens his worldwide search for truth.

"Expedition Unknown" is currently available to stream on Discovery+ and  Max and is available to purchase or rent through most online retailers.

7. Dark Tourist

Not every tourist is going to check out conventional art museums or major family-friendly attractions in their voyages around the world. The Netflix original series "Dark Tourist" offers travelers a chance to check out the more off-beat elements of local cultures, sometimes venturing into the outright macabre. Hosted by journalist David Farrier, "Dark Tourist" visits the purportedly haunted areas of major cities and tourism sites capitalizing on local tragedies and notorious figures around the world. From exploring irradiated sites to touring museums dedicated to infamous serial killers, "Dark Tourist" certainly isn't every traveler's cup of tea by the way it provides a morbid twist on the genre.

"Dark Tourist" is currently available to stream on Netflix .

6. The National Parks: America's Best Idea

Celebrated documentarian Ken Burns, who has crafted documentary series chronicling numerous elements of American culture and history, turned his attention to the country's national parks. The 2009 six-episode miniseries "The National Parks: America's Best Idea" recounts the history behind the parks and how they each capture the stirring beauty of the United States. From the enduring legacy of John Muir to the evolution of the National Park Service, "The National Parks" is a must-watch for anyone planning to visit the natural wonders nationwide. Universally acclaimed, "The National Parks" won two Emmy Awards, with critics praising how the documentary series presented the parks as a gorgeous extension of the national identity.

Released with a companion book expanding its story, "The National Parks: America's Best Idea" is currently available to stream on PBS with WOSU Passport and Prime Video with PBS Documentaries.

5. The Grand Tour

After being ousted from hosting "Top Gear," Jeremy Clarkson and his co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May took their globe-trotting automobile expertise to Prime Video for "The Grand Tour" (via Variety ). Retaining much of the format from their previous work together on "Top Gear," "The Grand Tour" has participants travel to different destinations using an impressive array of cars. From Cambodia to Madagascar, "The Grand Tour" showcases thrilling routes and cars, backed by the hosts' irascible wit. The Independent's positive review of "The Grand Tour" praised the show as distilling the best elements from "Top Gear" while boasting a significantly larger production budget.

With jaw-dropping destinations and high-octane action, "The Grand Tour" is currently available to stream on Prime Video .

4. Passport with Samantha Brown

Television personality Samantha Brown has built an impressive empire of travel shows on a number of platforms. One of Brown's most enduring lines of programming to date is "Passport," which sees Brown extensively explore different regions around the world for the ultimate experience. Starting with 2004's "Passport to Europe," Brown launched several different shows, taking her informative style to examine Latin America, China, and eco-friendly tourism. Brown's "Passport to Europe" won a Daytime Emmy Award while the subsequent "Passport to Latin America" was nominated for an Emmy, as a testament to Brown's eye for entertainment and educational quality. 

Brown's "Passport" series are currently available to stream on Discovery+ .

3. Anthony Bourdain: The Layover

As someone who hosted travel shows since 2002, Anthony Bourdain has experienced a lot of extended layovers and quick detours between trips to larger destinations. This premise of enjoying a locale on a tight turnaround time drives the core premise behind his Travel Channel series "The Layover." With only 24-48 hours in each location, Bourdain enjoys as much of the tourist-oriented and locally authentic experiences as he can before departing once more. A more tightly paced approach to Bourdain's usual travel fare, "The Layover" still finds the time to provide an informative look at different city cultures all over the globe. 

Invaluable for those looking to make the most of their time on a tight schedule, "Anthony Bourdain: The Layover" is available to stream on Discovery+ , along with purchase and rent options on most digital platforms.

2. Rick Steves' Europe

Perhaps the gold standard in public broadcasting produced travel shows, "Rick Steves' Europe" follows travel author and television personality Rick Steves as he explores cities in Europe. Running from 2000 to 2021, Steves not only shares the biggest cultural landmarks and defining fare in each destination, but he provides audiences with valuable travel tips along the way. More than simply focusing on the biggest tourist spots, like London and Paris, Steves adds plenty of overlooked getaways, including Slovenia and Oslo. With a steady hand and wealth of knowledge, Steves has provided his even-keeled traveler wisdom to those interested in visiting Europe for decades.

"Rick Steves' Europe" is currently available to stream on the show's website , PBS with WOSU Passport, Prime Video , and Tubi .

1. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

Television personality Anthony Bourdain's final travel show was "Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown," which ran for 12 seasons on CNN from 2013 to 2018. Though "Parts Unknown" certainly retains the focus on local cuisine prominent in Bourdain's past travel shows, the CNN series weaves in more sociopolitical commentary in examining its locales. The series came to an abrupt end  following Bourdain's tragic death , with the remaining episodes becoming a tribute to the late host and his unique worldview. Led by Bourdain's insightful and incisive perspective on the places he visited around the world, "Parts Unknown” was widely acclaimed and won numerous Emmy Awards across its run. More than just a show about food and culture, "Parts Unknown" examines the overlooked qualities of its destinations and what brings people together on a universal level.

Available to purchase on most digital retailers, "Parts Unknown" is also available to stream on Max and Discovery+ .

Our ranking methodology

Everyone has that one show they're connected to, whether popular or not. "Best" is always subjective, and your all-time favorite series may not even be something someone else knows exists. That doesn't mean it's any less valid, though. We've tried to keep our personal opinions from this list and instead relied on more tangible elements when compiling our rankings. You'll find some of the most beloved, compelling, and critically acclaimed travel shows — and some you may have never heard of.

A travel show's host can be as important as the places traveled. There's a reason why Anthony Bourdain will always appear on lists like this one. His captivating storytelling capabilities and genuinely raw nature make for compelling TV that viewers resonate with. This kind of grab power shows up throughout our list of picks, with the face and voice of a program helping to boost some of the programs in our rankings.

We've considered the likability of the shows chosen here by scouring reviews from multiple sources, like Reddit, Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb. We've also factored in the number of seasons and any accolades a show may have been given. A lack of awards certainly doesn't dull a hidden gem's luster, though, so don't be surprised that many shows featured here have gone under the award committees' radar.

50 of the Best Travel-ish Shows to Watch When You Can't Travel

Abbie Mood Lang

August 8, 2023

We can only travel so much ( no matter how cheap the flights are ). So when you inevitably settle down onto the couch, check out one of these shows to transport you to a different place until you can get there in person.  

Here are 50 of our favorite travel tv shows. 

Traditional Travel Shows

1. Rick Steves’ Europe

Rick Steves might be a bit bookish but that’s one of the things we love about him. The man knows Europe—and the continent’s history—like the back of his hand, and his love for the region is clear. Whether you already love the countries and cities he visits, too, or are dreaming of the day you finally make it there, don’t be surprised if you find yourself geeking out right along with him. Available on: Amazon, Hulu, YouTube

>> Get inspired with our list of 25 ideas for where to go in Europe.

2. passport to europe with samantha brown.

Sam Brown travels with a sense of curiosity and excitement that you can’t help but get caught up in. “Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown” is packed with history, popular landmarks, local restaurants, and shopping spots—literally everything you need to know about both major cities and smaller spots in Europe.  Available on: Amazon 

3. The Layover

This one is made for travelers who love to maximize every. single. second. when they travel, including the time in between flights (looking at you, Type As). In “The Layover,” the late Anthony Bourdain uses every travel trick in the book to do—and eat—as much as he can within 24-48 hours.  Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon

>> Plan your own short adventure with our layover guides.

4. the national parks: america's best idea.

Most of us have hiked, backpacked, or at the very least, driven through one of the United States’ national parks. From lesser-visited spots like the Gates of the Arctic in Alaska to (maybe a little too) popular ones like Yellowstone, this documentary pays homage to these beautiful places, sharing the history of the national park system from the 1800s to the present time through breathtaking video footage, interviews, and untold stories.  Available on: Amazon, YouTube

5. Globe Trekker

Featuring a rotating cast of hosts, “Globe Trekker” is a real-life version of the Lonely Planet guidebooks. The first few seasons were filmed in the 90s so don’t expect high-def, but over two decades they cover just about everywhere that you could think of, from London to Northern India to the Australian Outback. Available on: Amazon 

Experiential Travel Shows

6. Dark Tourist

If you are fascinated by all things unusual—and maybe even morbid—you’ll definitely get some ideas from this Netflix series. In “Dark Tourist,” journalist David Farrier explores destinations with a grim history, like witnessing an exorcism in Mexico, hiking through a haunted forest in Japan, or swimming in a lake formed by a nuclear blast in Kazakhstan. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you if you have trouble sleeping after! Available on: Netflix

7. Conan Without Borders

Team Coco, this one is for you. See a side of Conan you never knew you needed as your favorite late-night talk show host takes his antics on the road to experience pop culture in other countries firsthand. Always wanted to see Conan star in a telenovela? Check. Wonder if he could hack it as a K-pop star? Done. Curious to see what his, um, dance skills look like? Season 1, Episode 1.  Available on: Netflix

8. Tales by Light

There’s something about an amazing photo that makes the rest of us wonder how it even happened. While there’s a little bit of “right place, right time” to many great shots, the best photographers know exactly what to look for when it comes to lighting, angles, and capturing emotions and feelings. Not just a behind-the-scenes look at how the pictures are taken, “Tales by Light” also show us how powerful images can be when it comes to conservation. Available on: Netflix

9. Expedition Unknown

With a background in archaeology and a “passion for the unexplained,” Josh Gates investigates unsolved mysteries, lost cities, and buried treasure all around the world. He’s got a little bit of an Indiana Jones vibe going on, and actually does get himself in some hairy situations while tackling challenges like searching for Amelia Earhart’s remains in Fiji—but without the Nazis breathing down his neck or giant boulders barreling his way. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling

10. The Moaning of Life

After “An Idiot Abroad” concluded and comedian Karl Pilkington turned 40, he had some big life questions, as one does. “The Moaning of Life” documents Pilkington’s mid-life crisis as he travels around the world to see how other cultures tackle big topics like marriage, having children (they’re not for him), the secret to happiness, and even death. Available on: Amazon 

11. Planet Earth

The BBC put some serious funding into the production of “Planet Earth” and it has paid off. The series has been awarded four Emmys and a Peabody Award from the Royal Television Society for its breathtaking episodes featuring a different biome or habitat each time. From the Arctic and Antarctica to the depths of the oceans, if this doesn’t inspire you to see more of our planet, nothing will. Available on: YouTube, Amazon

Road Trips 

12. Long Way Round

Watch actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman hop on their BMW R1150GS Adventure motorcycles (hey, some people are interested in those kinds of details) and cruise from London to New York. They take an eastern route through Europe, Asia, and Alaska, then down to the contiguous US, usually off-road. The two have an obvious shared passion for riding, which is a definite requirement if you plan to sit on a bike seat for 19,000 miles! Available on: Amazon

13. Long Way Down

A sequel to their 2004 adventure, Long Way Down follows Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman again as they ride their trusty motorcycles from Scotland through Europe and down Africa to Cape Town, South Africa. This time the duo covers an impressive 15,000 miles—though as the episodes show, it’s not always easy. Available on: Tubi

14. Epic Drives

Come for the cars, stay for the conversations. Created in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, this show highlights fast cars, unique trucks (Ford Falcon XR6 Ute anyone?), and stories from locals in epic locations. Available on: YouTube

15. Top Gear

There’s a reason that there are nine (!) movies in the Fast & Furious franchise—people love watching drivers push their cars to the limit. "Top Gear" is part review, part road trip, and all adrenaline, and the celebrity guest drivers and absurd challenges add to the fun. Now that we think about it, maybe Rocket League® was inspired by the Top Gear Car Sports segment…? Available on: YouTube TV, Amazon 

16. The Grand Tour

Filled with bits of uniquely quirky (and questionable) advice like “looking good is more important than looking where you’re going,” "The Grand Tour" finds Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May (of “Top Gear” fame) driving unique automobiles in interesting places. The friends drive everything from an Aston Martin in South Africa to the Fiat Panda 4x4 in Colombia to beach buggies in Namibia. They talk, they eat, they race. Available on: Amazon 

Food & Drink

17. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

“No Reservations” combines two of the best things about traveling: food and adventure. Throw in Anthony Bourdain and you’ve got a truly entertaining TV show. The chef gets down and dirty in each location, giving us a look at not just the food, but the people and a fun way to experience the culture. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Amazon 

18. Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown

Bourdain once said, “You learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together.” “Parts Unknown” brings the table to you, as the chef learns about the history of often-complicated places (Detroit, Iran, Senegal) by sharing a traditional food or drink with the people who live there.  Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Amazon 

19. Gordon Ramsay's Uncharted

Chef Gordon Ramsay is probably best known for his strong personality on his reality TV shows, like “Hell’s Kitchen,” but in “Uncharted,” we see a more humble side of the Brit. He frequently finds himself thrown out of his comfort zone while learning about the cuisine or traditional cooking methods from a local and is then thrown into the fire by attempting to make a dish for the community himself. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Disney+

20. Gordon's Great Escape

Imagine Gordon Ramsay in a white tank top, admitting that he has no idea what he’s doing and traveling around India (often on motorbike) to become versed on what “real” curry is like compared to the dish he loves in the UK. The show embodies the sights and sounds of India and Ramsay even experiences “travel sickness,” just like the rest of us. The last four episodes take place in Southeast Asia and Ramsay continues his role as the student, which isn’t a position we’re used to seeing him in. Available on: Amazon, Disney+

21. Ugly Delicious

Each episode revolves around a type of food and then James Beard Award-winning chef David Chang travels to different countries to explore how those places interpret it or make it. With close-up shots of the food as it’s being made, cooked, and consumed, you can almost smell the warm pizza crust and feel the heat of the hot chicken in your mouth. Available on: Netflix

22. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

If you like “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” you’ll love "Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner." David Chang travels the world to meet up with funny, food-loving celebrities like Seth Rogen and Chrissy Teigen as they embark on culinary adventures in various cities around the world. Available on: Netflix

23. Street Food

Street food is almost like a culture within a culture. Wherever you go, travelers can count on carts to have the most authentic food—and people—you’ll ever find. Capturing the vibrant colors and essence of each dish, this show manages to make even the most humble of street food look so beautiful; it's like a love letter to the food and the people who make it. Available on: Netflix

24. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Even if you consider yourself an adventurous eater, this one might make you a little squeamish. But hey, you’ve gotta give Zimmern credit for being up for anything, like lamb brains and duck tongue. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Amazon 

25. Three Sheets

Comedian Zane Lamprey is living the dream—traveling the world to meet new people and drink alcohol with them. It’s essentially an international pub crawl, including the day-after hangover cures. Available on: Amazon 

26. I’ll Have What Phil’s Having

Phil Rosenthal is hilarious (he did create “Everybody Loves Raymond”) but in a very wholesome way. He had an admittedly bland diet as a child, so Rosenthal wants to experience as much as he can as an adult—even if that means stepping into the unknown. His friendly demeanor and childlike innocence make you feel like you are just tagging along with an uncle and experiencing a place for the first time. Available on: YouTube, Amazon 

27. Somebody Feed Phil

In “Somebody Feed Phil,” Rosenthal actually brings his friends and family along as he visits cities ranging from Tel Aviv to New Orleans. Phil’s excitement is contagious as he tastes the best pizza, egg cream—and even hot dog—of his life. Available on: Netflix

28. BuzzFeed's Worth It

BuzzFeed knows how to tap into popular culture, and “Worth It” offers a unique spin on your typical food review. Instead of just eating a meal somewhere and talking about it, hosts Steven Lim and Andrew Ilnyckyj eat three different dishes at three different price points (affordable, mid, luxury) and then decide if it’s worth it to spend more money. The guys bring an everyman attitude to the whole show, so they rarely pick the most expensive option. Available on: Hulu, BuzzFeed’s website

29. Booze Traveler

Host Jack Maxwell is the real deal. At a young age, he made money by shining shoes in local pubs and gin mills (seriously) and then became a bartender in South Boston. He found that you can learn a lot about a person when you take the time to sit down for a couple of drinks, so naturally, he hit the road to learn about what people are drinking and why they drink it. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling

30. Chef's Table

Many cooking shows give you a look into the chef’s personality, but sometimes you want to go a little deeper, learn a little bit more. Enter Emmy-nominated series “Chef’s Table.” Each season dives into the lives and personal stories of six chefs, discussing their discipline and culinary talent while they prepare a dish. It’s the best of both worlds and a must watch for serious foodies. Available on: Netflix

31. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

If you’ve ever traveled with a parent, you will be hard-pressed to find a more relatable show. Comedian Jack Whitehall and his father, Michael, hit the road together to “strengthen their bond.” Dad is definitely out of his element in this one, as Jack wants to be in the thick of everything, while Michael would definitely prefer a bit more familiarity. Available on: Netflix

32. The Amazing Race

Featuring 11 teams of two that race around the world to make it to the final leg and take home the $1 million prize, contestants on “The Amazing Race” face everything from grueling heat to freezing temperatures, while having to complete physical and mental challenges on a limited budget. There are many reasons why this show is so popular, but perhaps the biggest is the relationships between the partners. Just traveling with another person on vacation can be stressful enough, but the competition adds another layer of complexity to the relationship as they try to navigate through completely foreign cities and countries. Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon 

33. Survivorman

Canadian survival expert Les Stroud strands himself in the remote wilderness for 7-10 days with only his clothes, a one-man camera rig, his harmonica, a multi-tool, and often, items relevant to his survival situation or location. While it may not make you want to go off on your own in the middle of nowhere for days on end, it might motivate you to spend a little more time in nature in a place you hadn’t thought of before. Available on: Hulu, Amazon, YouTube

34. An Idiot Abroad

Poor Karl Pilkington is constantly pranked by British comics Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant in “An Idiot Abroad.” To be fair, it’s probably not possible for Pilkington to be that clueless, but he plays the part well and with quite a bit of humor as he’s repeatedly surprised and confused about the cultural customs of people around the world. Available on: YouTube, Amazon

35. Restaurants on the Edge

Love a good makeover show? Check out “Restaurants on the Edge,” a show in which three food and design experts revive restaurants that are on the edge of failing by re-connecting them with the local culture and food. The newly improved eateries offer a redesigned decor and unique menu, but the views throughout the show—filmed at restaurants in places like Malta, St. Lucia, and Hong Kong—give you a real idea of what the locale looks like. Available on: Netflix

36. Extreme Engagement

It’s your typical love story: man and woman meet, fall madly in love, get engaged, and then spend two years apart while man is filming another TV show. Okay, so that last part is not so typical, but when PJ Madam and Tim Noonan came back together, they decided to spend every waking second together and travel the world for an entire year to see if their relationship could cut it. Unlike most travel shows that visit the hotspots, the couple travels to remote villages and experiences life with tribespeople in their quest to “discover the secret to a perfect marriage,” giving viewers a real sense of place and a deep look at places many tourists never see. Available on: Netflix

37. House Hunters International

If you’ve ever dreamt of living abroad, “House Hunters International” is the best way to get a glimpse of life in another country—and where you could potentially live there. The buyers’ often-unrealistic expectations or lavish budgets have become the source for many a meme and with 115 seasons , you’ve got some catching up to do. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling

38. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost

“Vagabrothers” Marko and Alex Ayling vlog their 24-hour adventures in popular cities across the globe. Each episode starts with a little brotherly competition with a trivia question about the city to determine who will experience the destination on a shoestring budget and who will get to ball out. Whether you’re a penny-pinching backpacker or an all-out baller when you travel, you’ll get to see both sides of the coin. Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV

Scripted Shows Set Abroad

39. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories

The show takes place in a fictional small Japanese bar called Meshiya in Tokyo that is open from midnight to 7 a.m. While the menu technically only offers four things—sake, beer, shōchū, and tonjiru, a pork soup — the chef (known only as the Master) will create any dish that a customer may want using the ingredients that he has on-hand that night. The camera follows that night’s patrons out of the bar and into their lives to continue their stories, but still manages to capture the true feeling of the show—that food is about coming together but life is boring without a little joy every now and then. Available on: Netflix

Based on the lives of five single men and women in their 30s in Jerusalem, “Srugim” checks all the boxes for a binge-worthy show: controversial issues (in the Religious Zionist society), marriage problems, a character struggling with their sexuality, and a bonus for travel junkies—true cultural immersion. Available on: Amazon Prime, YouTube

Regularly ranked as one of the most popular TV shows of all-time in the US, “Lost” is about the survivors of a commercial jet airliner that crashed on a mysterious island in the South Pacific Ocean en route from Sydney to Los Angeles. The show was filmed at Mokulē'ia Beach, near the northwest tip of Oahu, making it easy to imagine spending a week on your very own deserted island. Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon 

42. Outlander

With elements of romance, history, and science fiction, “Outlander” is filled with sweeping landscapes, historic castles, and elegant gardens. Filmed mostly in the Scottish Highlands, but also in Prague (to capture the spirit of 18th-century France in Season 2) and Cape Town, South Africa, you can visit many of the sites where Clare Randall lived her double lives. Available on: Netflix, Hulu, Sling, YouTube TV 

43. Downton Abbey

This series is set in the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey between 1912 and 1926 and depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. If the show inspires a trip to the British countryside, be sure to add Highclere Castle to your list—it’s where the TV show was filmed. Available on: Amazon, YouTube

44. Grantchester

Taking place in a picturesque 1950s Cambridgeshire village named Grantchester, this detective drama will have you dreaming of spending your next vacation in a sleepy British town. You can actually visit the actual town of some 540 people and take a walk through the Grantchester Meadows, stop in the pub, and sit down for afternoon tea, just like Sidney Chambers and Geordie Keating. Available on: Amazon, YouTube 

45. Trapped

Though it’s been gaining in popularity as a tourist destination in the past few years, Iceland is still a country that feels quite wild and remote. “Trapped” captures that feeling in this crime drama taking place in as isolated Icelandic town, where the chief of police tries to solve the murder of a former townsperson after his mutilated corpse is found by fishermen. Available on: Amazon 

46. The Kettering Incident

The Australian drama is based on the mysterious disappearance of two young girls, but the dark and enchanting landscapes are a central part of the show. This one might not have a happy premise, but the filming locations in and around the town of Kettering and Bruny Island in Tasmania are sure to kick your wanderlust into overdrive.  Available on: Amazon, YouTube  

47. Top of the Lake

Set in a remote mountain town in New Zealand, "Top of the Lake" is a harrowing series about an inexperienced detective trying to figure out what happened to 12-year-old Tui, who disappeared while five months pregnant. The country’s South Island is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world and the show gives you enough of a taste that you’ll want to book a trip to Glenorchy and experience its untouched beauty for yourself.  Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon

When a group of eight strangers from around the world realize they are connected telepathically, they have to find a way to keep each other safe from those who find their powers threatening. The second season includes an astonishing 15 cities and 13 countries. From action shots in Seoul to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the creators of "The Matrix" and "Babylon 5” outdid themselves with this one. Available on: Netflix

49. Hawaii 5-0

Take a trip to Hawaii with this TV show featuring an elite state police task force set up to fight major crimes in the state. Originally airing from 1968 to 1980, there’s also a remake that premiered in 2010 and will end in 2020. Whether you watch the old school or modern version, the swaying palm trees and ocean views will bring back memories of a tropical vacation. Available on: CBS, YouTube TV

50. Marco Polo

Yes, this TV show is about that Marco Polo. Inspired by the creator’s own legendary trip through Central Asia, “Marco Polo” gives viewers an insight into the life of one of the world’s first explorers. We challenge you to somehow not imagine yourself riding a horse through the grassland of the Mongolian-Manchurian steppe after watching a few episodes of this one. Available on: Netflix, Amazon

Ready to get off the couch and back into the world? Join Going and get amazing cheap flights —up to 90% off—delivered right to your inbox.  

Freelance Writer

Published August 8, 2023

Last updated January 9, 2024

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I Heart Britain

25 of the Best Travel Shows About London, England

Whether you're researching a possible trip to London or you just want to do a bit of armchair travelling, there are loads of great travel shows to help you get a sense of what it's like. We're firm believers in doing your research and figuring out what YOU want to see, not what old guidebooks say you should see – and watching a variety of travel shows can definitely help you narrow it down.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Shows About London, England

Our top pick.

Footloose in London: All the Best Sights of Our Capital – 2016 – Presented by native Brits Dave and Debra Rixon and clocking in at 1 hour 46 minutes long, this is the video we recommend to anyone who's only planning on watching one. It includes all the major sights plus tips on how to get around more affordably – because anyone who's done much travelling will know London is not going to end up on any “cheapest cities to visit” lists.

Over on our British TV site , we've showcased even more of their European travel videos. You can read our interview with them HERE and explore more of their work. Their videos really are the next best thing to actually making the trip yourself.

Love London – 2015 – A London taxi driver and a young Londoner travel the city to learn its secrets. Through six 30-minute episodes, the pair explore a variety of locations around the city. They include: Mayfair, Southwark, Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Holborn, Bloomsbury, Clerkenwell, and Covent Garden.

Rick Steves's Europe – 2000 to 2019 – As far as many Americans are concerned, Rick Steves is the gold standard for travel shows. Though we wouldn't go that far (his videos are far too short and surface-level), they ARE a great way to get an overview of a location. Season 7, Episode 9 visits London. Others of interest for planning a UK trip include: S7E9 Northern England, S9E8 Western England, S9E9 Southeast England, S9E10 Cornwall, s10E1 Heart of England, S10E10 Scotland's Highlands, S10E11 Scotland's Islands, and S10E12 Glasgow.

Slow TV – 2018 – This unique series has no host or narration. It's just footage of various things in London – each season covers a different sort of experience:

• Season 1 – Wildlife in London
• Season 2 – The River Thames
• Season 3 – City Walks
• Season 4 – The Tube
• Season 5 – City Bus Rides

If you're the sort of person who likes to people watch, or the sort who likes to know what they're going to see in advance, these videos are great. For others, it's like watching paint dry. We like it, but we totally acknowledge it's not for everyone.

The Best of the Rest

Not enough armchair travel for your tastes? No worries – there are plenty more London travel videos to choose from. Below, we've rounded up quite a few more videos for your viewing pleasure.

Crown and Country – 1998 to 2007 – Edward Windsor (son of Queen Elizabeth II) takes us on a tour of some of Britain's most famous landmarks. A number of episodes are devoted to landmarks in and around London.

London: A City in Time  – 2015 – This programme mixes live footage with historical documents and photos to tell the story of London. Though listed as 2015 on Amazon, it feels significantly older so that date may not be accurate.

London: A Tale of Two Cities  – 2015 – This hour-long documentary looks at the highs and lows London has faced over the years.

London Guide: Roberts London  – 2017 to 2018 – Originally produced as a YouTube series, these videos take you on a tour of England's capital city. 

Curious Traveler – 2015 – This American travel series takes us to a variety of locations around the world, but there are a few episodes specific to London. Look for Season 1, Episode 2 (London) and Season 3, Episode 9 (London Shops).

Travel in Style – Though few are lucky enough to indulge in luxury travel, we can all enjoy a bit of vicarious luxury travel with this series. Two episodes include London: Season 1, Episode 9 and Season 2, Episode 13.

Anthony Bourdain: A Cook's Tour – Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain visits cities all over the world to explore what their people eat. Season 1, Episode 22 sees him in London, attempting to dispel the myth that all British food is bland and overcooked. There's also a Scottish episode just before it.

Smart Travels with Rudy Maxa  – 2002 to 2006 – Although not exclusively about Great Britain, this series includes episodes in London, the London countryside, Dublin, Ireland’s West Coast, Bath, South Wales, Edinburgh, and St. Andrews (not to mention a lot of other lovely cities around the world).

Passport – London – This one's fairly short, but it's well-made and it offers some less conventional destinations (like a perfume maker).

Rudy Maxa's World – 2010 – This series follows a similar format to many travel shows, and the episodes include destinations all over the world. For London (and some nearby day trips), check out Season 2, Episode 3.

Travel with Kids: London – 2011 – This London travel video is not for everyone. If you like calm, adult things free of bouncing, rambunctious children…definitely watch something else. On the other hand, if you're planning a family trip to London with kids, you may find it useful. 

A Taste of Travel – 2016 – This is kind of an unusual travel show in that it has a number of hosts and they each visit different places within a single episode. For London, check out Season 1, Episodes 9-11. Episodes 12 and 13 venture elsewhere in England.

Places to Go – 2018 – This is another series that visits locations all over the world, with two episodes of interest to those looking for London footage. Check out Season 1, Episode 5 for a dedicated London episode, then skip ahead to Episode 9 to see the “overflow footage” that didn't make it into their other British episodes.

Discovering the World – 2019 – This series visits a variety of cities around the world, including London. Episodes are roughly 50 minutes long, so it's a little more in-depth than some travel shows. You'll find the London episode in S2E5, but you may also enjoy the Scotland episode (S1E2).

Legendary Cities – 2014 – This series focuses on the history, architecture, and cultural heritage of some of the world's finest cities. Episode 2 takes a look at London.

Oxford Street  – 2017 – This series takes an in-depth look at one of Europe’s largest shopping districts and its day-to-day activities.

London and Paris Vacation – 2016 – This is not a typical, well-polished and heavily-researched travel series. That doesn't mean it's without merit, though. It's casual, it's honest, and it's full of great tips on saving money and maximising your time in the city. At 1 hour 40 minutes long, it's also reasonably in-depth, with a lot of scenes you won't see in most travel videos.

Portrait of a City – 2010 – Tour guide Liam Dale hosts this series about world-class cities. Episode 3 visits London.

Welcome To – 2019 – This is another one of the many travel series that visit lots of different locations around the world. Season 1, Episode 3 covers London.

Greatest Cities in the World – 2010 – Welsh actor and comedian Griff Rhys Jones hosts this grand tour of some of the world's greatest cities. Episode 2 visits London.

The Story of London   – 2014 – Six episodes walk us through different sites in London.

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The 35 Best British TV Shows You Need to Binge This Year

It's time to spice up your Netflix queue with a few programs from across the pond.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Bridgerton is a steamy, candy-colored adaptation of Julia Quinn's much loved series of romance novels, which center around the Bridgerton family of siblings, and their quest to find love. To make things a bit more interesting, there's an anonymous gossip columnist in town named Lady Whistledown chronicling the scandals and triumphs of 18th-century life.

How to watch: Bridgerton is available to stream on Netflix .

Vanity Fair

We're living in the era of the Hollywood remake, and one classic tale recently reimagined for the small screen is William Makepeace Thackeray's 1847 serial novel, Vanity Fair . Olivia Cooke stars in the series, which tells the story of Becky Sharp, an orphan determined to improve her station in life—by any means necessary.

How to Watch: Vanity Fair is available to watch on Amazon .

Derry Girls

This Irish show is definitely not British, but it deserves a spot on this list. The show follows five teenagers during the end of the Troubles in Northern Ireland in the 90s. It's sweet, heartfelt, and really, really funny.

How to Watch : Derry Girls is on Netflix .

A Discovery of Witches

Based on Deborah Harkness's trilogy, A Discovery of Witches is the story of a witch, Diana Bishop (Teresa Palmer), who falls for a vampire, Matthew (Mathew Goode) . It's full of romance, magic, and even time travel.

How to Watch : A Discovery of Witches is on AMC+ .

I May Destroy You

Set in London, I May Destroy You is created by Michaela Coel, who also stars as novelist Arabella. After she is sexually assaulted, she struggles to work on her second novel.

How to Watch : I May Destroy You is streaming on Max .

The Night Manager

In this thriller adapted from John le Carré's novel, ex-British soldier Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston) is recruited by MI-6's Angela Burr (Olivia Colman) to infiltrate the inner circle of an arms trader (Hugh Laurie). Season one aired in 2016, but five years later, a second season is rumored to be in the works.

How to Watch : The Night Manager is on Prime Video .

Sex Education

This irreverent British teen comedy follows Otis (Asa Butterfield), whose mom (Gillian Anderson) is a sex therapist, but it also focuses on the the students, staff, and parents of the fictional Moordale Secondary School. The fourth and final season is coming out this September.

H ow to Watch : Sex Education is on Netflix .

Killing Eve

Sandra Oh scored a Golden Globe for her performance as Eve Polastri, a British intelligence agent obsessed with finding Villanelle, a psychopathic female assassin, in this BBC America series.

How to Watch: Killing Eve is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.

The Bodyguard

This political thriller starring Richard Madden (a.k.a. Game of Thrones 's Robb Stark) captured the British imagination in 2018, and now it's available to stream stateside. Madden's character plays the titular bodyguard, who is assigned to protect a high-profile British politician. The show follows the pair as they navigate a particularly complicated political landscape.

How to Watch: The Bodyguard is available on Netflix .

A Very English Scandal

Hugh Grant stars in this BBC docudrama about the Jeremy Thorpe scandal . Thorpe, played by Grant, was a British politician in the 1970s, who was arrested on charges that he conspired to have his lover, Norman Scott, murdered during a time of widespread homophobia in the United Kingdom.

How to Watch: A Very English Scandal is available on Amazon .

A self-destructive detective, Luther is skilled but emotionally impulsive when solving cases. Idris Elba's iconic portrayal of the morose detective creates a drama that is both thrilling and unnerving.

How to Watch: Luther is available on BritBox .

The Miniaturist

When Jessie Burton's novel The Miniaturist was first put up for sale, it prompted a bidding war between publishers. Now, the mysterious story of Petronella (Nella) Oortman and her doll house has been adapted into a three-part miniseries.

How to Watch: The Miniaturist is available on Amazon .

More: The True Story Behind the Cabinet House in The Miniaturist

One of many royal period dramas on this list, Victoria centers around the young Queen Victoria in the early years of her reign. Season three, which premiered in January 2019, explored revolutions across Europe, and how Victoria's relationships with parliament, her husband Prince Albert, and her people change after she has children. The show has been on hiatus, but fans are still hoping for a season four .

How to Watch: Previous seasons of Victoria are available on Amazon .

Reminiscent of Shameless with its controversial story lines—think: dysfunctional families, mental illness, and adolescent sexuality— Skins follows the lives of a group of teenagers living in Bristol.

How to Watch: Skins is available on Hulu .

The Crown explores Queen Elizabeth II's life from the 1940s onward, chronicling her early reign. This fall, the sixth and final season will premiere , so catch up now with seasons one through five. A perfect historical drama ripe for binge-watching.

How to Watch: The Crown is available to watch on Netflix .

More : 12 Shows You Should Watch After Finishing The Crown

Now, I'm not sure if Ted Lasso actually counts as a British TV show, but it's set in London, so we'll allow it. This Apple TV+ series about an unqualified American football coach who is recruited to manage a soccer team, is more than its premise: it's funny and sweet, and a welcome escape.

How to watch: Ted Lasso is available to stream on Apple TV+

This steamy drama, which is adapted from a book series by Diana Gabaldon of the same name, follows former World War II nurse Claire Randall as she unexpectedly travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland. Season seven is airing now, so there's plenty to catch up on.

How to Watch: Outlander is available on Starz and Amazon .

Sign up for Starz

More: What the Cast of Outlander Looks Like in Real Life

Men in Kilts

If you've already binge-watched every episode of Outlander and still want more of the Scottish landscape, consider tuning in to Men in Kilts , a new travel show hosted by Outlander 's own Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish. The show follows the two actors as they take a roadtrip through their homeland, exploring Scotland's history, culture, and traditions.

How to Watch: Men in Kilts is available to stream on Starz.

More: An Interview with Sam and Graham

All Creatures Great and Small

Based on a much-loved book series by Alf Wight, the show follows James Herriot as he joins the fictionalized farming community of Darrowby Village and begins caring for its animals, and earning the respect of his eccentric, but ultimately kind-hearted employer, Siegfried Farnon. Come for the stunning landscapes and impeccable costuming, stay for a gentle story of slow-burning romances and sweet puppies and surprise birthday parties.

How to Watch: All Creatures Great and Small is available on Amazon Video .

Broadchurch

David Tennant isn't just famous for his role as the tenth Doctor. In Broadchurch , he co-stars as DI Alec Hardy alongside Olivia Colman's DS Ellie Miller . The show follows Hardy as he bickers with Miller while also trying to solve the case of an 11-year-old boy whose body washed up on the shore of a beach in a small Dorset community.

How to Watch: Broadchurch is available on Prime Video with PBS Masterpiece .

As the digital director for Town & Country, Caroline Hallemann covers culture, entertainment, and a range of other subjects 

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45 Must-Watch British TV Series (& where they are set)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 30, 2023

There are so many popular must-watch British TV series available on Netflix, Amazon Prime or other streaming services around the world. From period dramas, and crime thrillers to comedy shows the choices of what to watch are comprehensive.

Starring famous British actors including Suranne Jones, Sarah Lancashire, Jenny Agutter, Olivia Colman, John Simm, Vicky McClure and more we have chosen the best that British TV has to offer.

In this article, you will find information about 45 of the best TV series which also showcase parts of the UK countryside, sights or attractions.

You will also find information about where each of these binge-worthy British TV shows were made as well as links to any related tours. All of these British shows are available on Netflix and/or Amazon Prime.

Why not sign up for Amazon Prime to watch thousands of movies and TV shows anytime? Start the free trial now!

Happy viewing!

Downton Abbey

Midsomer murders, vanity fair, line of duty, killing eve, foyle’s war, rosemary and thyme, all creatures great and small, happy valley, only fools and horses, the vicar of dibley, absolutely fabulous, jonathan creek, agatha raisin, call the midwife, peaky blinders, father brown, inspector george gently, the last kingdom, broadchurch, the great british bake off, inspector morse and endeavour, grantchester, last tango in halifax, case histories, monarch of the glen, hamish macbeth, my family and other animals, which is your favourite british tv series, british tv series filmed in england.

About – One of the most popular of British TV shows this historical period drama follows the trials and tribulations of the Grantham family (an aristocratic family) at their grand estate Downton Abbey in Yorkshire .

The series also follows the lives of their servants below stairs and is a reflection of the British class system in the first half of the 19th century.

Period – Set between 1912 and 1926.

Number of series – 6 series (52 episodes) and one film

Filmed – Although set in Yorkshire the series was filmed at Highclere Castle in Hampshire and the village of Bampton in Oxfordshire.

💻 Click to watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime

📍 Inspired to visit Yorkshire? Discover the top 10 things to do in this beautiful English county

📷 Click here to book a tour to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

About – Murder, mayhem, and mystery in the villages of Midsomer in the British countryside. This British television detective series is based on the books of Caroline Graham about Chief Inspector Barnaby.

Starring John Nettles in the main role until 2011 when he was replaced by Neil Dudgeon this series has been immensely popular since its pilot episode shown in 1997.

Period – Set 1997 to 2020 (so far!)

Number of series – 21 series and 124 episodes

Filmed – Although set in the fictional village and county of Causton the series is filmed across South Oxfordshire.

The market towns of Thame, Henley-on-Thames and Wallingford as well as the village of Warborough and small town of Watlington all feature in the series.

Click to watch on Amazon Prime

Click here for a tour of the Midsomer Murder locations

Inspired to visit the Cotswolds? Discover the 10 most beautiful towns and villages in this stunning area of England.

About – Set in the fictional Cornish village of Portwenn this comedy-drama series stars Martin Clunes as a socially inept Doctor who moves into the village from London.

Period – Set in the present day

Number of series – 6 seasons (70 episodes)

Filmed – The series is filmed in the Cornish village of Port Isaac

Click to watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime

Click here for a Doc Martin tour of Port Isaac

Inspired to visit Cornwall? Read more in my Cornwall Travel Guide

About – A British historical period drama about a poverty-stricken girl who tries to move herself up in 1820’s English society. This is an adaptation of the novel of the same name by William Makepeace.

Starring Michael Palin (of Monty Python and Around the World in 80 Days) as William Makepeace, Olivia Cooke as Becky Sharp, Johnny Flynn as William Dobbin plus a multitude of British acting talent this is one period drama not to miss!

Period – Vanity Fair is set in 1820s London

Number of series – 2018/ 1 season / 7 episodes

Filmed – Fitzroy Square London, Syon Park London and Budapest.

Click to watch on Netflix

About – Sporting comedy-drama series telling the tales of an English soccer team managed by an American football coach. The fictional team is AFC Richmond. Lasso is originally hired to lead the team to failure by a character seeking revenge, but his approach turns up surprising results. 

Number of series – 3 series (34 episodes)

Filmed – The first two series are set in south London and were also filmed in the real-life borough of Richmond. The home of west London club Hayes and Yeading United FC, the SkyEX Community Stadium, was used for scenes featuring the training ground and offices. 

For the third series, filming also took place in Amsterdam. Various big-name stadiums in the UK have also been seen on screen throughout the three series. 

Click here to book a tour of Ted Lasso locations in London

About – Line of Duty is based around a character who joins an anti-corruption unit within the police force. With his working partner, DC Kate Fleming, DS Steve Arnott uncovers links between seemingly unconnected incidents, and also to organised crime.

Number of series – 6 series (36 episodes)

Filmed – The fictional Central and East Midlands Constabularies are filmed in Birmingham for the first series. Northern Ireland was used as the setting for the following five series, Belfast in particular. 

Click here to book a tour of Line of Duty locations in Belfast

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About – Series heroine Eve joins an undercover MI6 unit after being fired from MI5. Her mission is to pursue assassin Villanelle. Violent and near-death experiences then ensue, as Eve and Villanelle work both with and against one another. 

Number of series – 4 series (32 episodes)

Filmed – Filming for Killing Eve involved a variety of locations. These included London, Barcelona, Paris , Berlin , Tuscany, Bucharest and the county of Kent in the UK.  

Click here to book a tour of Killing Eve locations in London

About – This UK TV programme centres on criminal activity during the chaotic World War II period. DCS Christopher Foyle pursues justice at home on the East Sussex coast, while his son does battle as an RAF fighter pilot. After the war ends, Foyle becomes a spy as he takes up a role as a senior intelligence officer. 

Period – Set during and after World War II

Number of series – 8 series

Filmed – A real house in Hastings was used as Foyle’s home in the series

About – Rosemary and Thyme are rather like a grown-up version of the Famous Five. The gardening duo soon get their hands dirty by stumbling upon one mystery after another. Laura Thyme is a former police officer, while Rosemary Boxer has a PhD in plant (rather than human) pathology. 

Number of series – 3 series (22 episodes)

Filmed – Southern English counties including Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire featured in Rosemary and Thyme. A number of gardens across Britain and Europe were also used during filming.

About – This veterinary series is based around author James Herriott’s real-life experiences in the role. Living in the Yorkshire countryside, the young vet featured in the programme works alongside two other vets. Their housekeeper is also a star of the show. 

Period – The series is based on experiences occurring between 1940 and 1992, but is set in the late 1930s.

Number of series – 3 series (21 episodes)

Filmed – The series was filmed where it was set, in the Yorkshire Dales. 

Click here to book a tour of All Creatures Great and Small locations in Yorkshire

About – Happy Valley centres on police sergeant Catherine Cawood, a divorced and bereaved mother whose daughter committed suicide. This British crime drama is set in West Yorkshire, and the main character also has to contend with the man who raped her daughter, resulting in her raising her grandson. 

Number of series – 3 series (18 episodes)

Filmed – Filming took place in the Calder Valley, West Yorkshire, where the show is set

About – Only Fools and Horses charts the adventures of a pair of South London brothers, Del Boy and Rodney. Del is the real wheeler-dealer of the two, selling on anything he can come across.

The pair embark on multiple get-rich-quick schemes over the years. This is one of the UK’s best-loved comedy shows. 

Period – Set in the present day, from 1981 to 1991

Number of series – 7 series (64 episodes)

Filmed – Del and Rodney’s flat in the fictional Nelson Mandela House, Peckham was originally Harlech Tower in Acton in real life, then later switched to Whitemead House in Bristol. 

Click here to book a tour of Only Fools and Horses locations in Bristol

About – The Vicar of Dibley is all about a female vicar living and working in an Oxfordshire village. This was after female vicars were permitted in the UK, following a 1992 change in the law.

Period – Set in the present day, from 1994 to 2007

Number of series – 3 series (20 episodes)

Filmed – Filming took place in Turville, near High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire

About – Miranda is a comedy show all about the character of the same name. In her 30s, Miranda repeatedly finds herself in awkward, embarrassing and odd situations. Miranda Hart wrote and starred in the programme. 

Period – Set in the present day, from 2009 to 2015

Filmed – Filmed live at the BBC TV Centre and London Studios

About – A suburban British family living in the Midlands is sent into disarray when their daughter comes home with an American husband. After the first series, this husband’s son becomes the ‘cuckoo’ instead.

Period – Set in the present day, from 2012 to 2019

Number of series – 5 series (33 episodes)

Filmed – Though set in Lichfield in the West Midlands, the series was mostly filmed in Amersham and Chesham Bois, Buckinghamshire.

About – Written by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag charts the adventures of a tragedy-struck, witty young woman. Her London life is based on the creator and star’s one-woman comedy show. 

Period – Set in the present day, from 2016 to 2019

Number of series – 2 series (12 episodes)

Filmed – Fleabag was filmed in the Dartmouth Park area of north London  

About – Absolutely Fabulous is a classic British sitcom centred on the adventures of Adina and Patsy. Adina’s prim and proper daughter Saffron and Patsy’s fondness for alcohol are recurring themes. 

Period – Set in the present day, from 1992 to 1996, then 2001 to 2004

Number of series – 5 series (39 episodes)

Filmed – Much of the show was filmed in London, particularly Holland Park.

About – Rowan Atkinson stars as the hapless, immature Mr Bean, known for not speaking and pulling a range of funny faces. The childish character tends to create chaos wherever he goes. 

Period – Set in the present day, from 1990 to 1995

Number of series – 1 series (15 episodes)

Filmed – Mr Bean was filmed in various London and UK locations

About – This mystery crime drama series centred on a problem-solving magician and an investigative journalist team. Between them they can seemingly solve even the most baffling crimes and murders.

Period – Set in the present day, from 1997 to 2016

Number of series – 5 series (32 episodes)

Filmed – Filming took place in northwest London and West Sussex, among other locations

About – Poldark is British television at its best. This historical period drama is based on the novels by Winston Graham.

The series also follows the life of Ross Poldark following his return to Cornwall after spending 3 years fighting in the army in America. A love triangle, fortunes lost and won and dramatic Cornish scenery make this series a winner.

Period – Set between 1781 and 1801.

Number of series – 5 series (43 episodes)

Filmed – A variety of locations along the north Cornwall coast (and some locations in England) were used for filming including St Agnes Head, Gunwalloe on the Lizard Peninsula and the Botallack Mine near St Just in Penwith.

Watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime

Click here for a tour of Poldark’s Cornwall

About – A comedy-drama with Ashley Jensen starring as the retiree who finds murder, mystery and mayhem in and around the picturesque Cotswold village she has made her new home.

Based on the novels of Marion Chesney

Period – Present day

Number of series – 3 series (16 episodes)

Filmed – The Cotswold villages of Stow-in-the-Wold, Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh, and others appear in the show.

Click here for a tour of the Cotswolds or for more information about planning a visit to the Cotswolds read my Cotswolds Travel Guide

About – A crime drama based on the novels of Ann Cleeves about Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope.

Set in Northumberland and starring the wonderfully talented Brenda Blethyn (who does a mean Geordie accent) as the central character of Vera.

An 11th series has been confirmed which is fabulous news for fans of Vera!

Number of series – 10 series (40 episodes)

Filmed – Showcasing Newcastle upon Tyne and the county of Northumberland in the North East of England .

Click to watch on – Netflix and Amazon Prime

Click for a Vera filming locations tour of Newcastle

About – This popular romantic period is set during Regency England and follows the lives of 8 siblings. Series 1 is focused on the romance between Daphne Bridgerton and the handsome but troubled Simon Basset. The period drama is based on the best-selling book series by Julia Quinn.

Period – Set in Regency England

Number of series – 3 series

Filmed – Castle Howard in Yorkshire, Bath, London Hatfield House.

About – A period drama about a group of midwives working in Poplar in the East End of London in the 1950s and 60s.

Based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth the series doesn’t shy away from portraying some of the social issues such as poverty or historical events of the day.

Storylines cover numerous issues including abortion, racial abuse, thalidomide, dementia, and domestic violence.

Period – Set in London in the 1950s and 1960’s

Number of series – 9 series (78 episodes)

Filmed – Although set in the East End of London most of the filming for this British television period drama takes place in Kent and Surrey. The Historical Dockyard at Chatham Kent is used to film the outdoor scenes.

Click here to book a Call the Midwife tour

About – Period crime drama about a notorious gang in Birmingham , England. The gang is led by the fierce Tommy Shelby, a crime boss set on moving up in the world no matter the cost.

Period – Set in Birmingham in the early 1900s

Number of series – 5 seasons (30 episodes)

Filmed – Various locations in Liverpool , Leeds, Bradford, Saltaire and Yorkshire.

Click for a Peaky Blinders tour

About – The life and reign of the late Queen Elizabeth II are portrayed in this award-winning historical drama series.

Period – 1940s to modern times

Number of series – 5 series (50 episodes) with a fifth due in late 2023.

Filmed – Locations include Belvoir Castle , Hatfield House, Old Royal Navy College in Greenwich and Ely Cathedral amongst others.

The series has starred Clare Foy, Olivia Colman and Imelda Staunton in the role of the late Queen.

Watch on Netflix

Click to book The Crown themed walking tour of London

About – A drama centred around the lives of the police constabulary, medical staff and residents of Ashfordly and Aidensfield in Yorkshire.

The series is based on the “Constable” books by Nicholas Rhea .

Period – Set in the 1960s

Number of series – 18 series (372 episodes)

Filmed – The series was filmed in Goathland in the heart of the North York Moors in Yorkshire.

Watch on Amazon Prime

Click here for a Heartbeat locations tour of Yorkshire

About – A favourite in our household the Father Brown stories are about a modest, compassionate priest who doubles as an effective crime solver in this series. Although a period drama and crime drama it is very much in the mould of Midsomer Murders.

The series is based on the short stories by G.K. Chesterton.

Period – 1950s

Number of series – 8 series (90 episodes)

Filmed – Set in the fictional village of Kembleford the series is filmed in the Cotswolds village of Blockley.

Click for information about Cotswold tours

About – British crime drama series set in the North East of England in the 1960s. Martin Shaw stars as the Inspector in the series which are based on the books by Alan Hunter.

Period – 1960s

Number of series – 8 series (25 episodes)

Filmed – Another fantastic crime drama series based in the North East George Gently was filmed on location in Durham, Teeside, Newcastle and Northumberland.

About – I am sure I don’t have to go into too much detail about Sherlock Holmes! This period drama and crime drama is definitely an example of the best British TV available.

Featuring Benedict Cumberbatch in the title role and Martin Freeman as his sidekick Dr Watson.

Number of series – 4 series (13 episodes)

Filmed – In London including around 221b Baker Street !

Book a Sherlock Holmes walking tour of London

About – Historical fiction. The series is based on the Saxon series of books written by Bernard Cornwell .

Alfred the Great defends his kingdom from Norse invaders when Uhtred of Bebbanburg a Saxon raised by Vikings seeks to claim his birthright.

Period – Anglo-Saxon England (9th and 10th centuries)

Number of series – 4 seasons (36 episodes)

Filmed – Not in the UK! The series was actually shot in Hungary.

About – Serial crime drama set in the fictional seaside town of Broadchurch in Dorset.

Starring Olivia Colman and David Tennant all three series tie together and follow the investigations of police detectives DI Alec Hardy and DS Ellie Miller in this psychological drama.

Number of series – 3 seasons and 24 episodes

Filmed – On the Jurassic Coast in Dorset in the harbour village of West Bay.

About – A history-based drama focussing on the early years of the reign of Henry VIII including all six of his marriages.

Apparently not totally historically accurate but nevertheless a great way to learn something about UK history.

Period – Set between 1509 – 1547

Number of series – 4 series (38 episodes)

Filmed – Although Hampton Court Palace features in the series it was actually filmed mainly in Ireland

Click here for tickets to Hampton Court Palace

About – This popular British reality TV show (renamed the Great British Baking Show in the USA) sees a number of home bakers compete with each other to be crowned Britain’s best amateur baker. Originally presented by Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood while the presenters may have changed the show sticks to its winning formula.

Number of series – 13 series (and over 100 shows)

Filmed – Usually filmed in a large white tent at Welford Park in Berkshire though for 2020 and 2021 the series has been filmed a the Down Hall Hotel in Hatfield Health in Essex.

About – Endeavour is a detective drama series and prequel to the popular Morse.

Set in Oxford both series follows the career of police officer Endeavour Morse.

Period – 1960s (Endeavour)

Number of series – Endeavour 7 series (30 episodes) and Morse – 7 series (33 episodes)

Filmed – Oxford

Book a Morse and Endeavour walking tour of Oxford

About – This popular period drama and detective drama is set in the village of Grantchester in Cambridgeshire. The dual detective team of vicar Sidney Chambers (replaced in series 4 by new vicar William Davenport) and Detective Inspector Geordie Keating are based on the short stories by James Runcie.

Period – Set in the 1950s.

Number of series – 5 series (31 episodes)

Filmed – Grantchester does exist and is a small village on the River Cam a few miles south of Cambridge . The series is filmed on location in the village.

Click here for tours of Cambridge

About – This comedy-drama series starring Sarah Lancashire, Anne Reid, Nicola Walker and Derek Jacobi (and. a plethora of other best British TV actors followed the lives of a couple in their 70s as they embark on a love affair.

The series has won a multitude of awards including the British Academy Award for Best Drama Series.

Number of series – 5 series (24 episodes)

Filmed – In the English county of Yorkshire.

British TV series set in Wales

About – Originally called Y Gwyll (The Dusk) this Welsh police drama series does feature some passages of Welsh dialogue (the original was shot in Welsh)

Set in Aberystwyth this is crime drama show follows the characters of DCI Tom Mathias and DI Mared Rhys.

Number of series – 3 series (25 episodes)

Filmed – In Aberystwyth and surrounding areas.

Click here for tours of North Wales

About – Doctor Who is a mega-popular sci-fi show that was brought back to British screens after being absent for years. This one isn’t only a show in its own right, it has also spurned spin-offs including Torchwood, The Sarah Jane Adventures and more. Various male and female actors have played the doctor over the decades. 

Period – Set in the present day, from the first show in 1963 to the current series

Number of series – 26 series 1963 to 1989; 13 series from 2005 to present

Filmed – Doctor Who has been filmed at various locations across the UK, particularly in England and Wales. It is also recorded at the BBC Wales studios in Cardiff. 

Click here to book a tour of Doctor Who locations

British TV series set in Scotland

About – A Scottish TV crime drama initially based on the novels of Ann Cleeves (who also wrote the Vera Stanhope series) and based as the name suggests on the Scottish archipelago of Shetland.

Main character DI Jimmy Perez is played by Douglas Henshall.

Number of series – 5 series (26 episodes) 2 more series have been commissioned

Filmed – Although set on the islands of Shetland much of it is filmed near Glasgow. The town of Lerwick on Mainland (the name of the largest Shetland island) and Fair Isle are used as film locations.

Click here to find out about some of the great tours of Scotland from Rabbies

About – Based on the Jackson Brodie series written by Kate Atkinson and set in Edinburgh .

Working as a private investigator we follow Jackson as he tries to unravel 3 separate case histories.

Number of series – 2 series (9 episodes)

Filmed – Set and filmed in the Scottish capital Edinburgh

Learn more about Edinburgh including recommended itineraries

About – Another great Scottish detective show and crime drama this time based on the Rebus novels by Ian Rankin.

John Hannah and Ken Stott have played the detective over the series.

Period – Set in present-day Scotland.

Number of series – 4 seasons (14 episodes)

Filmed – Rebus is set in Edinburgh and locations all over the city appear in the series.

About – A British drama series set in the Scottish Highlands about the running of a Scottish estate and the life and loves of the somewhat reluctant new laird of the Glenbogle estate Archie MacDonald.

Period – Present day (early 2000 when it was made)

Filmed – The series was shot on location in Badenoch in the Scottish Highlands. Ardverikie House in Kinloch Laggan was used as the fictional Glenbogle Estate.

Watch on – Amazon Prime or purchase on Video

About – Another older series (this one is from the 1990s) set in Scotland.

The series (a comedy/mystery drama) about local police officer Hamish Macbeth is set in the (fictional) town of Lochdubh on the west coast of Scotland.

The television series is based on the novels by M C Beaton (who also wrote the Agatha Raisin novels).

Period – Set in the 1990s

Filmed – Filmed on location in the village of Plockton and areas around the Kyle of Lochalsh

Click for tours of the Highlands of Scotland with Rabbies

About – A historical romantic drama series based on the novels of Diana Gabaldon.

The main character in the book series and TV show is Claire Fraser who we first meet on holiday with her husband in Scotland. Recovering from the brutality of WW2 with the help of some mysterious standing stones she travels through time to 18th century Scotland.

Period – Set between the second half of the 20th century and Scotland in the 1700s.

Number of series – 5 series (67 episodes)

Filmed – Numerous locations around Scotland feature in the series including castles , villages and Highland landscapes.

There are many Outlander Tours available leaving from various cities – click here for a full-day tour from Edinburgh

About – Based on writer and naturalist Gerald Durrell’s autobiography, My Family and Other Animals is set in the 1930s. During that time, Durrell lived on the Greek island of Corfu with his mother and siblings. 

Period – Set during the 1930s

Number of series – 1 series (10 episodes)

Filmed – Much of My Family and Other Animals was filmed on location in Corfu, Greece Click to watch on Amazon Prime

Did your favourite British TV series appear in this selection? If not why not pop over to my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook and let me know!

Also you may have found some new series to watch too and ideas for your travels in the UK (so many great themed tours to choose from!)

If you are looking for a gift for someone who loves England our gift guide for Anglophiles is the perfect place to look!

If you enjoy foreign language films and TV shows (subtitled or dubbed) you may enjoy my selection of French TV series to watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime or my selection of the best French films . Also check out my choice of Australian movies and TV series , Italian TV series , Danish TV series and South African movies too!

P.S Don’t forget to sign up for Amazon Prime where you can watch thousands of movies and TV shows (including lots mentioned in this article) anytime. Start the free trial now!

• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

34 Best travel TV Shows to Binge watch this year!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Are you looking for some amazing travel TV shows to feed your wanderlust?

There is nothing better than watching inspiring travel TV shows when you don’t get to travel. They are entertaining, helpful to plan your travels and open your mind (and heart) to new places.

I absolutely love watching travel shows on TV. While it’s true that I prefer doing the actual travelling, I’m like everybody else and I also enjoy staying at home and dreaming of my next destinations.

I spend a lot of time watching travel shows and find it to be not just entertaining, but enlightening!

Sometimes you will discover underrated places that you would have never thought of going. And that’s the great thing about it, you don’t only get to learn about the places you want to go. You discover new places!

It’s also a very good way to learn more about the culture of these places.

As you may know, I love discovering new cultures. I find all of them so incredibly interesting. Foreign languages, food, history… there is just so much to discover. It’s so interesting and exciting!

Here are some of the best travel TV shows to watch now!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Jack Whitehall: Travels with my father

Jack Whitehall is a famous British comedian. He is mainly known to be the posh lad in Fresh Meat (filmed in Manchester by the way 😉 ).

In real life, Jack Whitehall actually is a very posh Londoner. He comes from a wealthy family and never got the chance to go backpacking as many young people do.

On top of that, he always had quite a difficult relationship with his dad, who is 79.

This is why, in 2017, Jack Whitehall invites his dad, Michael, to go backpacking with him in Asia for a Netflix original series .

By that, I mean proper backpacking. Sleeping in hostels, taking cheap transportation, carrying a backpack… and guess what, his dad said yes!

This show is absolutely hilarious and a perfect mix between comedy and travel. If you need something to cheer you up and make you dream of foreign lands, it’s the perfect choice!

In the first season, they travel through countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

It’s so funny to watch as the dad is quite a character. He is a very posh person and obviously not quite happy about the lack of comfort.

If you like British humour, Jack and Michael Whitehall will crack you up!

The show had so much success that it was renewed for a second season in Europe . A continent that Michael famously voted to leave! In the third season, they go to America and here again, it takes a whole new dimension.

Give it a try, you will be hooked straight from the first episode! It’s so funny and arguably the best travel reality show on Netflix!

2. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown

You may know Anthony Bourdain as a chef but did you know that he had a few travel shows as well?

My favourite is Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown .

This American food and travel show was produced by CNN and ran from 2013 to 2018. Sadly, Anthony died while working on a show about Strasbourg, France on the 8th of June 2018.

In this show, he travels the world and focuses on the lesser-known and underrated places.

He goes to pretty much any country you can think of and explores the culture and cuisine with locals. Very often he goes around with local guides, sometimes he also gets to meet famous personalities.

In his episode about Lyon in France, he goes for dinner with Paul Bocuse, the famous French chef.

Bourdain has this very unique way to explore the world. He sees the beauty in everything and always makes sure to be in perfect sync with local cultures.

He had this unique ability to see the world as the absolute beauty it really is and through Parts Unknown, shares his vision of the world’s cultures.

It’s not a show that I would categorise as funny, although there are some quirks. But it’s definitely the most interesting and passionate one of this list!

3. Down to Earth

Seasons:  1

This is a fun travel show / documentary to watch. It stars Zac Efron who travels around the world with wellness expert Darin Olien.

The goal of these travels is to discover more sustainable ways to live. They go everywhere around the world including Iceland, Sardinia and South America. 

Each destination highlight a specific sustainable lifestyle. For example, Sardinia in Italy is known as a blue zone. A blue zone is an area with more people reaching the age of 100 than the average.

When they get to Sardinia, they meet with locals and experts to try to understand how the way people live and eat has impacted their health.

Darin Olien is known to be big on super foods so you will also learn plenty about that when they go to South America.

All in all, this is a great show to watch as it perfectly mixes together fun and education.

4. BBC Race Across the World

Even though the Amazing Race is a concept available in almost all countries, it doesn’t exist in the UK.

But don’t you worry, the BBC thought that through and created its own program!

The concept of the Race across the world is a bit different though. In this show, you will follow 5 pairs of travellers on an epic race across the world.

In the first season, their mission is to go from London to Singapore without taking a single flight.

They are being given a bit of money, the equivalent of a flight ticket from London to Singapore ie about £1000. With this money, they have to go to Singapore without flying.

This means they have to find transport, accommodation and food for a month within that £500 budget per head. Each pair adopts a different strategy.

They take all sorts of transportation. Some hitchhike, some take the bus…

It’s a very entertaining thing to watch. You will surprise yourself trying to plan that trip as well!

5. Somebody Feed Phil

Seasons:  4

This Netflix Original is an excellent thing to watch if you love both travelling and food.

You will follow Philip Rosenthal on his trips around the world and discover the local delicacies.

There is no better way to understand the local culture than eating local dishes with the locals themselves and that’s what Phil is doing here.

From the floating markets in Thailand to the classic Mexican cantinas, he tries it all!

The best thing about this show is that you will discover so much more than just food and drinks.

He really tries to understand the local culture and why things are the way they are.

It’s also worth noting that Phil is a very happy and funny guy which makes it very pleasant to watch.

6. Instant Hotel

Instant Hotel is an Australian reality show that follows several teams of homeowners.

Each duo owns a holiday rental in Australia and will host the other contestants for a day and a night.

It’s a nice thing to watch if you love Australia or would like to visit one day.

You will get to see several states including Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Northern Territory.

Not only will you see some very famous locations such as Bondi Beach but will also get to discover some hidden gems.

There are 2 seasons available on Netflix.

7. Ugly Delicious

This is another food and travel TV show on Netflix. In this one, you will follow chef David Chang on his journey around the world.

A bit like Anthony Bourdain used to do, Chang is using food to tackle misconceptions and break down cultural barriers. 

Food is a powerful way to experience a country and learn more about the local culture. Chef Chang knows that and he shows you exactly how to!

He is also joined by guests including other chefs, artists, activists and plenty more. With him, you’ll discover many different regions including the USA, Asia and Europe.

8. Dark Tourist

In Dark Tourist, the journalist David Farrier focuses on something rarely talked about: Dark Tourism. Dark tourism is the fact of travelling to places associated with death or tragedy.

This type of travel is getting more and more popular and that’s why David Farrier goes to experience it and share with us his journey.

Dark Tourist is a very interesting show to watch as clearly, he is immersing himself into some culture and believes that you probably never even heard of before that.

Secondly, it can get quite funny and that Kiwi accent is always so cute!

Lastly, let’s be honest, it’s bloody weird! And clearly extremely interesting. I had no idea most of these things existed and although it can be creepy at times, it is quite interesting to know more about them.

9. Emily in Paris

Emily in Paris is a Netflix Original TV Show that was released in 2020. It was created by Darren Star (best known for “Sex and the City”).

It’s the story of Emily Cooper, an American girl, who moves to Paris to work in a French marketing agency.

Although it was argued that the show was full of clichés, it is still a very cool thing to watch. As a French person, I loved it!

It may not quite be representative of what a normal french life is but it highlights the most magical aspects of Paris! It will make you dream!

Emily Cooper is played by Lily Collins (British-American actress) but most of the other main characters are French which makes the show even better!

They all speak English (some with a better accent than others).

It’s a feel-good travel show that will make you want to visit Paris straight away!

And if you do, you will be able to visit Emily in Paris filming locations!

10. Griff’s Great Australian Rail Trip

Looking for a travel show about Australia? Here you go!

This 2020 docuseries is one of the best things to watch before going to Australia.

Here you will see Griff Rhys Jones, a Welsh comedian, taking on an amazing train journey from Perth to Sydney and Darwin to Adelaide.

Not only is it a great way to see what the Indian Pacific and The Ghan trains are like but you will also get to learn so much about the Australian outback and culture.

You can tell that Griff is truly fascinated by Australia and he will definitely make you want to jump on a plane straight away!

11. The Kindness Diaries

The Kindness Diaries is one of the best travel programmes if you also love motorbikes (don’t worry if you don’t though, it’s fun either way but if you do like motorbikes, this is the ultimate best travel series for you).

You will follow the adventures of Leon who travels around the world on a vintage motorcycle relying solely on the kindness of strangers for accommodation, food and even petrol.

This is an extraordinary travel tv program. Not only is it interesting and fun but seeing the kindness of people all around the world is simply the most moving thing you can see.

It will leave you quite emotional on a few occasions!

12. James May: Our man in Japan

You may know James May as one of the presenters of Top Gear. But he’s got way more in store than you’d think.

In this Amazon Prime original , James May goes to Japan and experiences many aspects of Japanese Culture.

He goes to all the main cities including Tokyo and Kyoto but also some more remote places in the Japanese countryside.

James May is a typical British guy and definitely knows how to come up with the best comments!

Just picture him, in Japan, not speaking a single word of Japanese, clueless about the culture… and yet going for it!

It’s a very interesting mix of fun and culture.

If you love Japan, you will definitely like it but even if you don’t have any specific interest in this country, you will still enjoy it, I promise!

You can watch this amazing show on Amazon Prime.

Click here to check it out and get a free trial!

13. Gordon, Gino and Fred’s Road Trip

If you are looking for comedy travel shows, look no further! This one will make you laugh out loud!

This 2-season show features 3 famous chefs in the UK: Gordon Ramsay, Gino D’Acampo, and Fred Serieix.

Just picture it for a moment, we are putting together a British man, an Italian man and a French man, in a same place and make them travel the world to discover the best foods.

The result? One of the best celebrity travel shows we can think of!

It is a very cool show and you get to discover their home countries of Italy , France and Scotland but also some other destinations such as Texas or Mexico.

14. By Any Means

Seasons:  1 (6 episodes)

This one is for all the adventurers out there! Unlike some of the shows out there that are quite commercialised, this one is very pure and honest. You will be following Charley Boorman, an Irishman who decides to go from his small hometown in Ireland all the way down to Australia without flying.

Charley is not doing all of that on his own. He is with a team which makes it even more entertaining.

In the first episode, you will see how they went about planning the trip itself which was pretty challenging back in 2008. After that, the good stuff starts and you follow them on this incredible journey.

It’s a great way to learn more about hidden gems and underrated travel destinations.

Click here to watch on Amazon Prime.

15. The Grand Tour

The Grand Tour is British motoring show featuring Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. Although it is known for cars, it’s also an excellent travel TV show to watch.

The famous trio used to present Top Gear for BBC. In 2015, BBC didn’t renew Jeremy Clarkson’s contract.

At this point, his friends decided to follow him and they signed a contract with Amazon Prime . The Grand Tour was born!

On the Grand Tour, Clarkson, Hammond and May embark the most incredible vehicles and set off to explore some of the most beautiful countries in the world!

They visit some famous places but also adventure themselves in very remote, off-the-beaten-path, locations. This includes Madagascar, Morocco, Namibia, Italy and many more!

The Grand Tour is available on Amazon Prime . There are several seasons and some specials!

Click here to watch The Grand Tour.

16. Amazing Race

The Amazing Race is an American reality TV show. I’ve watched every season of the French equivalent, Pekin Express.

As much as I would love to talk about this show, I appreciate that watching a show in french might not be of your liking!

But it’s ok because the Amazing Race is pretty much the same thing. There is an American and Canadian version.

The concept is simple. There are several teams of two racing around the world. In each episode, they have to go to a certain destination with no money.

Therefore their only option is to hitchhike and get locals to accommodate them for free.

Along the way, other missions are given to them. These can be hikes, riding… all sorts of things.

It’s the perfect show to discover many countries in a different way. The Amazing Race has it all: competition, culture, landscapes, fun… A must see!

And there are over 30 seasons available so plenty to binge-watch!

Click here to watch the Amazing Race.

17. Travel Man

If you are looking for another funny British travel show, Travel Man is for you!

In this channel 4 show, the host Richard Ayoade explores all major cities around the world. The goal? Visiting as many tourist spots in the minimum amount of time.

When I say that, don’t get me wrong. He is very well organised and makes sure to go on a guided tour most of the time.

This means he actually embeds himself very well in the culture of the place he is visiting.

But where loads of travel shows focus on hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Travel Man does the opposite. He goes for the most famous landmarks!

And it’s a good thing because even though these places are touristy, they are famous for a reason!

Richard Ayoade is a very funny man and will make you laugh out loud quite a few times!

Somehow, he always does his best not to enjoy himself which makes the whole show absolutely hilarious!

This show is perfect if you are planning city breaks or are into architecture.

If you are an adventure and after nature discovery, it won’t be what you are looking for.

Click here to watch Travel Man.

18. Anthony Bourdain: The Layover

The late Anthony Bourdain was famous as a celebrity chef. But he gained an army of new fans with his excellent travel series, Anthony Bourdain: The Layover .

Showcasing Bourdain’s swift visits to various cities around the world, the show aired on the Travel Channel from 2011 to 2013.

It focused on how to make the most of a short layover or brief stopover in a city.

Each episode featured Bourdain spending 24 to 48 hours in a featured city, providing viewers with a fast-paced, no-nonsense guide to experiencing the best food, culture and attractions a place had to offer.

He often sought the help of local experts and friends, including chefs and celebrities, to uncover hidden gems and popular hotspots.

Visiting everywhere from New York City to Istanbul, the show is renowned for Bourdain’s candid and unfiltered commentary, his willingness to try exotic and unconventional dishes and his deep appreciation for the diverse cultures he encountered.

19. All Joanna Lumley’s Shows

Joanna Lumley is a famous British actress. You may know her from  The New Avengers  or more recently  The Wolf of Wall Street.

She is also well known for her travel documentaries.

She has done quite a few of them over the years and they are all fantastic things to watch. The most recent one was released in 2020 and is called Joanna Lumley’s Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti.

If you love the Caribbean and want to learn more about this part of the world, watching Joanna Lumley’s TV show will be the perfect thing to do.

It is considered a documentary but like most travel shows, it’s quite funny on top of being interesting.

In this one, she goes to Cuban and Haiti. Local culture, quirky situations, funny humour… it has it all!

You should also consider watching the other ones as they are all fantastic:

• Joanna Lumley’s Nile
• Joanna Lumley’s Japan
• Joanna Lumley’s Trans-Siberian Adventure
• Joanna Lumley’s Unseen Adventures
• Joanna Lumley’s Greek Odyssey
• Joanna Lumley’s India
• Joanna Lumley’s Home Sweet Home: Travels in My Own Land
• Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure
• Joanna Lumley’s Postcards

Most of them are available on Amazon Prime as well as ITV Hub and BBC Select.

20. Bradley Walsh & Son: Breaking Dad

This one is very similar to Jack Whitehall Travels with my father. On paper at least.

In this case, the dad is the celebrity. Bradley Walsh is a famous British comedian and presenter. If he never particularly wanted to travel, his 21-year old son, Barney, decided otherwise!

Together they go on a road trip in America in an RV. The series started in 2019 and can be watched on Amazon . There are 2 seasons, 10 episodes in total.

In this case, they don’t go for a budget-travel version. They keep their comfort but try very unexpected activities in the States.

It’s more about the contact with the locals which is quite interesting.

As you would expect from the Walsh’s, it’s also very funny!

They go from the Florida Keys up to Georgia. So if you are interested in knowing more about Florida and the east coast states, this one’s for you!

You can watch this amazing show on  ITV (eligible for a free trial as well!).

21. An Idiot Abroad

An Idiot Abroad is one the quirkiest travel show that you can find.

Here is the plot: the main person, Karl Pilkington has never wanted to travel and will be forced to.

Basically, at the beginning of the episode, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (who created the show) send Karl abroad with instructions. They put together a bucket list and he has to do everything.

It’s so funny! I promise, this British show will crack you up!

The thing that makes it so entertaining is the fact that Karl Pilkington has no interest in travelling and ends up doing all these things while the other two stay in the UK!

If you want to have a good laugh, An Idiot Abroad is the way to go!

22. The Americas with Simon Reeve

If you are looking for the best travel shows on BBC iplayer, this one is for you!

It features Simon Reeve, a famous British adventurer, exploring the Americas.

The first season includes 5 episodes during which you discover some of the most famous places in the Americas such as Machu Picchu in Peru but also some very remote places in the Amazon rainforest.

If you’d like to learn more about Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Paraguay, this is the travel show for you.

There is a lot to love about the Americas. Between the ancient Maya heritage and the beautiful national parks in the USA, there is so much to discover.

That’s exactly what you will do if you want “The Americas with Simon Reeve”.

You will follow him on his incredible journey and learn more about the local culture as well as sustainable ways to live. From planting trees in Costa Rica to hiking the Rocky Mountains, this is the perfect mix between adventure, culture and sustainability.

This TV show was produced by BBC and available on BBC iPlayer. 

23. Men in Kilts

If you’d love to learn more about Scotland , then Men in Kilts is the perfect travel show for you!

Here you will follow Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish, the stars of Outlander, around Scotland and discover plenty about the local culture.

This includes whisky, bagpipes and of course, stunning landscapes.

Not only is it a very interesting show to watch but the hosts are so funny and it’s so great to see them in another context than Outlander.

24. Long Way Up

Premiering in 2020, Long Way Up is part of the Long Way series of documentary travel TV shows, which follows motorcycle journeys led by longtime actors and friends Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor.

In Long Way Up , Charley and Ewan embark on an epic adventure, riding electric Harley Davidson LiveWire motorbikes from the southern tip of South America in Argentina to Los Angeles in the USA.

The journey covers over 13,000 miles and 13 countries, taking them through Chile, Bolivia, Peru , Ecuador, Colombia, Central America and Mexico between their start and finish points.

Some of the most memorable moments include navigating challenging terrains like the Atacama Desert and the Andes Mountains, dealing with extreme weather conditions, and experiencing the cultural diversity of the countries they visit.

The duo also encounter unexpected obstacles, like charging their electric motorcycles in remote locations with limited infrastructure, which adds an extra layer of adventure to their trip.

25. Booze Traveler

Booze Traveler was a popular Travel Channel television series from 2014 to 2018. Its host was the effervescent Jack Maxwell – a well-known Boston-born actor and television personality.

Each episode featured Maxwell embarking on a worldwide adventure to learn about different cultures through their alcoholic beverages and drinking customs.

The series took viewers to various destinations, including Mexico, India, Japan, Italy, and South Africa.

In each place, Maxwell immersed himself in local customs, tried traditional drinks and interacted with the locals to understand the importance of alcohol in their culture better.

In doing this, he often tried unique and sometimes unusual alcoholic drinks, such as snake wine in Vietnam and fermented mare’s milk in Mongolia.

Overall, the show explored the cultural and historical significance of alcohol, revealing how it has shaped societies and brought people together.

Sadly, the show was not renewed for a fifth series because Maxwell was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma while filming the last few episodes of this travel series.

26. Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby

Considered one of the best travel TV series out of the UK, Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby debuted in 2017 and quickly became popular amongst those who aspire to the finer things in life.

Giles Coren, a British food and travel writer and Monica Galetti, a renowned chef and restaurant critic, host the show.

The series explores some of the world’s most unique and luxurious hotels, delving beyond their opulent lobbies to uncover the behind-the-scenes operations and extraordinary experiences they offer.

In each episode, Coren and Galetti visit a different exceptional hotel, often located in stunning and remote locations.

They meet with the staff, from chefs to concierges, to understand the craftsmanship, innovation and dedication required to maintain these extraordinary establishments.

The show highlights the environmental and sustainability efforts of these hotels where possible.

Over the years, Amazing Hotels has featured various destinations, including the Fogo Island Inn in Canada, the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, the Giraffe Manor in Kenya and the Treehotel in Sweden.

27. Iain Robertson Rambles

If you watch Iain Robertson Rambles , you’ll see one of the most fascinating documentary travel TV shows ever.

As its name suggests, this captivating series is hosted by Iain Robertson, a Scottish presenter and broadcaster widely recognised for his love for nature and the outdoors.

The show focuses on Robertson’s expeditions through some of Scotland’s most picturesque and remote terrains and the UK.

During each episode, viewers accompany Robertson on his long walks and hikes across breathtaking landscapes.

The show offers a unique blend of travelogue, natural history, and personal storytelling.

Robertson’s passion for the outdoors and his knowledge of wildlife and environmental conservation are central to the series.

Throughout the series, Iain Robertson explores various destinations in Scotland and the UK, including the rugged Highlands , the serene islands of the Hebrides, and the lush woodlands of Wales.

Whilst watching him do this, viewers feel like they are alongside him – trekking through the picturesque landscapes he explores.

28. The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan

If you are looking for funny travel shows, look no further than The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan .

The show, a travel documentary series starring the British comedian, first aired in 2018.

It follows Romesh as he embarks on journeys to various destinations worldwide, often focusing on places considered off the beaten path or challenging for tourists.

Throughout the series, Romesh immerses himself in the local cultures and traditions of the places he visits.

He often seeks unique and authentic experiences, interacting with locals and trying his hand at their customs and activities.

Some places he visits include Ethiopia, Haiti, Albania, Zimbabwe, Mongolia, and Bosnia – locations known for their rich history, distinctive cultures, and, in some cases, reputations for being less frequented by mainstream travellers.

As Romesh offers humorous and self-deprecating commentary while navigating unfamiliar and sometimes challenging situations, the show provides a fresh perspective on travel.

His witty observations and genuine reactions to the places he goes to make for entertaining viewing. 

29. Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown

Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown is one of several TV travel shows that hit our screens from the Travel Channel.

The show ran from 2004 to 2006 and was hosted by the American television personality and travel expert known for her engaging and relatable approach to travel.

In the series, Samantha Brown explores various European destinations, providing viewers with insider tips, cultural insights and travel recommendations.

She regularly immersed herself in the local culture, trying regional foods, experiencing traditions, and interacting with locals.

Some of the destinations she went to included Paris, Rome, Venice, London, Vienna and Barcelona.

The show captures each location’s iconic landmarks, historical sites and vibrant neighbourhoods while highlighting their unique charms during her visits.

It was known for dishing out practical travel advice and inspirational exploration of European cities and cultures.

It encouraged viewers to embrace the adventure of travel and discover the beauty and diversity of Europe’s many destinations.

30. Globe Trekker

One of the longest-running TV travel shows was the incomparable Globe Trekker , which aired for 17 seasons and well over 200 episodes from 1994 to 2010.

The show features trekkers who embark on journeys to destinations worldwide, providing viewers with insights into different cultures, traditions and experiences.

Over the years, it has had a rotating cast of hosts, including Ian Wright, Megan McCormick, Zay Harding and one Bradley Cooper – who went on to achieve international fame as a Hollywood superstar.

These hosts have travelled to various destinations around the globe from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru and the vibrant markets of Marrakech in Morocco to the serene landscapes of New Zealand and the untouched beauty of Bora Bora.

The show’s format combines travelogue-style storytelling with practical travel tips, making it entertaining and informative for viewers interested in exploring the world.

31. Conan Without Borders

For those wanting the best travel shows streaming right now, it’s hard to go past Conan Without Borders.

Hosted by the famous comedian and talk show, the show debuted in 2015.

It featured Conan travelling to various international destinations, often to engage with local cultures, traditions and humour.

Celebrity guests, friends, and local personalities join Conan O’Brien in exploring the destinations throughout the series – including former First Lady Michelle Obama, actor Jack Black and comedian Jordan Schlansky.

The show has taken viewers on hilarious and insightful journeys to destinations like Cuba, Mexico, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Italy and Ghana.

It typically blends travelogue-style segments with Conan’s trademark comedic sketches and interviews.

While watching his attempts to immerse himself in cultural practices (such as learning traditional dances or trying regional cuisine), Conan presents us with his comedic take on each destination’s unique quirks and idiosyncrasies.

In doing so, the show entertains and fosters a sense of global connection and curiosity.

32. Tales by Light

Combining breathtaking imagery, storytelling, and a profound appreciation for the planet’s wonders, Tales by Light is a must-watch travel TV series for photography enthusiasts and anyone interested in the world’s most extraordinary and untamed places.

The show is a documentary television series that delves into the world of photography and the experiences of renowned photographers as they capture compelling images from around the globe.

It explores the stories behind these captivating photographs and the photographers’ journeys to catch them.

The series has featured various acclaimed photographers, including Art Wolfe, Darren Jew and Krystle Wright, who each provide insights into their unique approach to photography. 

They usually travel to remote and exotic destinations – including the Amazon Rainforest, Antarctica, Papua New Guinea, India and the Arctic Circle – often pursuing wildlife, nature and indigenous cultures.

Overall, the show provides viewers with a visually stunning and educational experience, showcasing the photographers’ dedication to their craft and deep respect for the natural world.

33. Ed Stafford: Into the Unknown

If you have yet to see it, Ed Stafford: Into the Unknown is one of the most compelling travel-related shows you can watch.

Hosted by British adventurer and explorer Ed Stafford – known for being the first person to walk the entire length of the Amazon River – the show illustrates the spirit of human exploration and resilience.

It highlights the former British army captain’s quest for adventure by journeying to some of the world’s most remote and challenging locations.

Throughout the series, Ed Stafford travels solo to destinations like Venezuela, Mongolia, Ethiopia and Peru. He has close encounters with grizzly bears in Alaska and tracking elusive snow leopards in Mongolia.

In every episode, Stafford immerses himself in the local culture and landscapes, often relying on his survival skills to navigate the wild and unfamiliar terrains.

The show combines elements of exploration, adventure and survival as Stafford pushes himself to his physical and mental limits.

34. Expedition Unknown

Expedition Unknown, a popular adventure and travel documentary television series, premiered on the Travel Channel in 2015.

The show’s presenter is Josh Gates, an explorer and adventurer who takes viewers on a quest to uncover mysteries, legends, and secrets from around the world.

During the series, Gates travels to a wide range of famous and obscure destinations to investigate historical enigmas, treasure hunts, and unsolved mysteries.

He often collaborates with experts, historians, and local guides to gather clues and solve puzzles related to each episode’s theme.

Some places he visits include Egypt, South America, and the Caribbean, where he seeks hidden treasures and solves perplexing mysteries.

His adventures involve investigating Amelia Earhart’s disappearance, searching for Atlantis, and pursuing the elusive Yeti in the Himalayas.

Ultimately, the show is known for its blend of adventure, history and exploration, making it entertaining for viewers interested in the thrill of discovery and the fascination of uncovering the world’s hidden secrets.

How to watch travel TV shows?

There are many places where you can find travel TV shows, but these would be the best places to start! I use all of them and love them! They are very complementary!

You can create an account and start watching Netflix here. This is where you will find most of the shows about travel.

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video comes with your prime subscription. There are many things to watch on Prime and it’s very good value. You can get a free trial for Amazon Prime Video here.

BBC iplayer

BBC offers some of the best UK travel shows including Race Across the World and The Americas with Simon Reeve.

ITV channel

ITV Channel offers some amazing TV shows such as the Bradley Walsh one or Gordon, Gino and Fred Road Trip. You can get a free trial for ITV here.

Disney + / Hulu

Although these are no TV shows, I’d recommend you to watch some Disney movies . Loads of them are perfect to discover new places.

We don’t always realise it but they are very good to embed yourself into a foreign culture.

For example:

• France: Aristocats
• UK: Mary Poppins
• China: Mulan

I thought I’d put it in there as clearly, Disney is always a good idea !

Channel 4 is a free-to-air television channel in the UK. You can go to their websites and watch everything for free.

There are some ads but they are pretty short.

I hope you will enjoy these amazing travel shows! If you have any recommendations, please share them in the comments as I would love to discover more myself!

You may also be interested in:

• Best books about France and the French
• Harry Potter Things to do in NYC
• Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the USA
• Magical Emily In Paris Filming Locations you can actually visit in France

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

11 Great British TV Shows That Celebrate the UK’s Nature & Countryside

In some cases, we earn commissions from affiliate links in our posts.

Last Updated on April 22, 2022 by Stefanie Hutson

Earth Day (April 22nd) is a great time to celebrate nature and reflect on the things we can do to fight climate change and ensure future generations can also enjoy the things many of us take for granted. With that in mind, we've created a list of shows that celebrate nature, the British countryside, and the efforts to preserve both of those things.

Springwatch / Autumnwatch / Winterwatch

In three out of the four seasons, British TV viewers are treated to a unique and wonderful show. Springwatch, Autumnwatch , and Winterwatch allow viewers to get an up-close look at Britain's flora and fauna as they respond to the changing seasons.

Traditionally, the cast is stationed in an outdoor area together, but some of the pandemic episodes featured hosts broadcasting from their own little parts of the world. 

Watch them:

• Springwatch
• Autumnwatch
• Winterwatch

Coast is another show that can be a bit hard to describe because it's an eclectic mix of travel, history, culture, and science. Each episode celebrates some part of the coast or aspect of living near the coast, and they're all fascinating. Though most episodes are set around the UK, some of the later episodes venture to nearby countries.

• Streaming: Coast
• Coast (some earlier seasons are available on DVD)

Footloose Travel Series

While all the Footloose Travel videos feature their fair share of nature and the outdoors, there are a couple that are particularly wonderful for those craving a bit of the countryside. 

• Footloose in Scotland: The West Highland Way
• Footloose in England: Tales from the Thames: Amazon | Vimeo

The first sees David and Debra walking the length of the West Highland Way in Scotland, travelling the 95.69 miles between Glasgow and Fort William. Aside from stunning scenery and plenty of local trivia, you'll also get some great tips on doing the walk yourself, should you ever decide to attempt it.

In Tales from the Thames , Dave and Debra travel along the 215 miles of the River Thames, beginning at the rather unimpressive source and continuing through some of the most beautiful scenery England has to offer. This one's both old and new, given that it was shot in 2001 but remastered during the pandemic lockdowns. Aside from the scenery, it's a neat look back at what life (and hair) was like twenty years ago.

Together, the two account for more than four and a half hours of footage in the British countryside.

Wainwright Walks

Alfred Wainwright was a well-known British walker and guidebook author who fell in love with England's Lake District and went on to live there for the rest of his life. In this series, walker and presenter Julia Bradbury takes us with her as she follows his guidebooks and checks out the incredible scenery of the region.

Few creatures are more critical to our existence than bees, and this series takes a closer look at how they live. Chris Packham and Martha Kearney host.

Watch it: 

Drowning in Plastic

Plastic is one of the greatest threats to the planet – yet even now, most of us use (and dispose of) far too much of it. Most sea creatures have plastic in their stomachs, plastic pollution may be shrinking penises (?!?) , and plastics are now circulating in the air we breathe. This programme takes a look at what can be done – and whether it's too late.

• BBC Select (subscription)
• Tubi (free with ads)

Escape to the Country

Though this popular series focuses on house-hunting, it's also about a desire to get out of crowded areas and create a new life closer to nature. Along with stunning scenery, many episodes include visits to local farms, natural beauty spots, and organisations that help to preserve and enhance country life. 

• BritBox | IMDb TV
• Get the Book by Jules Hudson

The Edible Garden

Eating more plants is one of the best things we can do to improve our health AND help the planet. It takes thousands of pounds of grain to grow a cow to 1200-ish pounds , but when we cut the middle-cows out of the equation and breed/raise/slaughter fewer of them, we can feed far more people with fewer resources and less impact on the environment.

In this show, Alys Fowler sets out to teach people how growing and cooking your own fruits and vegetables can be both rewarding and cost-effective. 

Planet Earth II

Even though his documentaries don't generally focus on Great Britain, we couldn't make a list like this without including Sir David Attenborough. Planet Earth II was the successful 2017 follow-up to the original 2006 Planet Earth, and it celebrates some of the best and most fascinating creatures and habitats of our planet. 

• Streaming Purchase

Life in a Cottage Garden

This delightfully slow series takes us through an entire year in gardening expert Carol Klein's own garden. With each season, we see nature's changes alongside the different steps necessary to work with the nature flow of things.

• Streaming on BritBox
• Great Canal Journeys

Actors Timothy West and Prunella Scales take us on a delightful journey along Britain's canals (plus a few in other countries). There are few better ways to gain an appreciation for the British countryside than to spend a bit of time along one of the island's many canals. Life moves at a slower pace there – most canals have a speed limit of just 4 miles per hour (6 in some wider areas). 

The series also offers a touching glimpse at the couple's close relationship and the changes they're going through as Prunella's Alzheimer's progresses. 

Save it to Pinterest!

After founding I Heart British TV in 2016 as a resource for her granny, Stefanie has grown I Heart British TV into a resource that serves millions of British TV fans every year. When not writing posts or editing contributions to the site, you can probably find her working on the latest print edition of the British TV Streaming Guide .

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Race Across the World review: Return of BBC smash proves travel is best without a smartphone

The hit bbc travel-adventure show returns for its fourth series, and is best understood as being like tourism but in a more intense, concentrated and indeed exhausting form, article bookmarked.

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I have to admit that I find travel so exhausting that I’m at a loss as to why anyone would willingly watch an episode of Race Across the World , let alone have the stamina to keep up with the whole nine hours of viewing that lies before us.

Having tagged along vicariously for the first leg of their journey, north to south across most of Japan, Race is best understood as being like tourism but in a more intense, condensed, concentrated and indeed exhausting form. The five pairs of contestants, ranging from annoying siblings barely in their twenties to a reassuringly mellow couple in their sixties, are tasked with travelling from snowy Sapporo in northern Japan down to the paradise island of Lombok in Indonesia, via various waypoints in Korea, Cambodia and Malaysia – some 15,000 kilometres in total.

Just like any backpacking holiday, the idea is that you move as fast as possible for the least cost (the budget is fixed at £1,390, the price of two air tickets from Japan to Indonesia), and in order to make the best of the adventure try and squeeze in some sightseeing, local culture and pick up a bit of casual work along the way to pay the bills. So it is a race, in the sense that you want to get to the checkpoints and to Lombok first, and win the £20,000 prize money, but to do it within budget and with some actual pleasure along the way. It’s all about balancing these priorities, and that essential nuance gives the show its charm. The only forms of transport that are banned are planes and the ultra-fast Japanese bullet trains, which would spoil the vibe. They should probably call it “The Sort-of Race Across the World”, if accuracy is the thing.

This, therefore, isn’t a full-on scramble, like some version of Challenge Anneka or a leisurely, carefree Portillo-esque travelogue , but one where the contestants have to find a more optimal vacation balance. It was interesting that the winners on this first Japanese leg are Eugenie and Isabel, a mother and daughter who took a pretty long detour to see the isolated, tranquil and lovely offshore island of Sado, on the “wrong” coast from the point of view of sheer speed. It’s so off the beaten track, even for the Japanese, that it was once used as a place of exile for out of favour politicians and the like.

Yet they still arrived, after five days on the road and having missed a connection, two minutes before twins Alfie and Owen, who just about managed to squeeze in a glimpse of Mount Fuji along their supposedly efficient but actually overly panicky and rushed route. It seems that Isabel’s impressive attempt to get a random Japanese boy to teach her the language on a long bus ride paid off; public signage makes little concession to the foreigner, and the universally friendly citizenry speak surprisingly little English. Our contestants don’t remark on it, but Japanese society is an evidently self-sufficient affair, something visitors always find a novelty.

Stephen and Ivy, the retired couple, aren’t that bothered about coming first, and took their opportunity to tarry at a wasabi farm, pulling up roots, burning their mouths off and cadging a useful lift. Maybe it was something about the famous sauce, but Ivy unloaded how “unintentionally offensive” her husband of many years is, just as he’s asking his hosts how old they all are: “Some have learned to tolerate him, but I love him”. Touching.

What’s also striking about Race Across the World , and something sadly impractical in the “real” world away from reality TV, is how much richer the travel experience of all those involved is because they are deprived, under the rules of the show, of their smartphones. They end up exploring their relationships with their journey partners as much as the picturesque countryside and bustling cities.

The young siblings from Yorkshire, Betty and James, for example, seem to be getting to know each other for the first time on Japanese trains and in random cafes, despite having grown up together. Something similar is also true of the two sets of mum and daughter: Eugenie and Isabel, and Sharon and Brydie. Thrown together and almost forced to talk to one another rather than scrolling through social media, their personal odyssey acquires an emotional and, around the Buddhist shrines, a spiritual dimension. As noted by young James, an unimaginative traveller by his own admission, you don’t get that with a week “having it off in Ayia Napa”. A different kind of pursuit, that.

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• Entertainment

The best travel shows to watch now

Travel shows on the BBC

Oceans apart: art and the pacific with james fox.

BBC Four, Monday 22nd August, 8pm

Dr James Fox takes a closer look at how the West’s contact with the people of the Pacific impacted them, from the perspective of an art historian. He explores subjects such as Australian Aboriginal art, and how the native people have told the story of colonization through painting.

Rap Trip: Underground Scenes Uncovered

BBC Three, Thursdays at 11pm

Catch up on BBC iPlayer

Take a tour of the UK through the lens of hip-hop, from Liverpool, to Ireland, to Yorkshire. The rap scene may be associated with London due to the huge success of artists like Stormzy and Wiley, but the further from the capital you go the more unique and diverse the genre gets…

Monty Don's Japanese Gardens

BBC Four, Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd of August, 7pm

Join Britain’s favourite TV gardener as he takes a trip to Japan, exploring their approach to horticulture. In episode one Monty takes a closer look at zen gardens, learning about their history and spiritual significance.

Monkman & Seagull's Genius Adventures

BBC Two, Starts Thursday 11th August, 7pm

Not only will Eric Monkman and Bobby Seagull take you on an eccentric tour of the Uk, but their focus on Victorian era inventions will teach you a thing or two about history! Join the duo as they follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, figure out their latitude using just a compass and the north star, and investigate the world of cement.

Treasures of the Indus

Sona Datta tells the story of the Indian subcontinent, using her knowledge as a curator at the British museum to illustrate the history with significant objects. The area is one of cultural and religious diversity, with a rich and storied past.

Travel shows on ITV 

Gordon, gino and fred: road trip.

Join superstar chef Gordon Ramsay, Italian chef Gino D’Acampo and French maître d’ Fred Sirieix as they take road trips across the world to discover the best delicacies and entertainment on offer. In series two they travel from Mexico across the USA, experiencing everything from Texan steaks to goat yoga in San Francisco. Catch up on all three seasons on the ITVX.

Judi Dench's Wild Borneo Adventure

Judi Dench proves that you can’t tame a Dame, as she delves into Borneo’s rainforest headfirst. Judi explores the significance of the rainforest, from the animals to the plants to the people, and shows us why it’s so important to protect it.

All Around Britain

Hosts Ria and Alex spend time in every nook and cranny of Britain, going on a wide range of adventures such as sailing through Birmingham, getting involved in rugby and trying their hands at motor racing.

Travel shows on Channel 4

Trip hazard: my great british adventure, season 2.

Channel 4, Starts Tuesday 23rd August, 10pm

Catch up on series 1 on All 4

Join comedian Rosie Jones as she takes her guests on an unconventional tour of the UK, celebrating the sights, culture and traditions of areas that are sometimes overlooked. Narrated by Olivia Colman in season 1, season 2 kicks of with Joanna Lumley on narration and AJ Odudu as the first guest. Catch up on season one with All 4.

Britain by Beach, Season 2

Channel 4, Starts Saturday 20th August, 8pm

The UK may not be known for its white, sandy beaches, but Anita Rani is setting out to show the beauty of the British seaside, pebbles and all. Season two starts out taking a tour of the Cornish coastline, with 420 miles of it to be getting on with. Catch up on season one with All4.

Travel shows on Channel 5

First class vs economy: is it worth it.

Channel 5, Sunday 21st August, 6:45pm

Get an insight into how the other half live, as Nigel Havers and Sally Lindsay fly from Heathrow to Washington DC with both First Class and Economy tickets. See for yourself what perks a First-Class ticket will get you on British Airways, and whether you think it’s worth the cash…

The Pyrenees with Michael Portillo

Channel 5, Starts Tuesday 23rd August, 9pm

Michael Portillo is walking the length of the Pyrenees, starting at the Bay of Biscay in the west, all the way to the shore of the Mediterranean Sea in the east. Along his journey, Michael will stop and meet the locals who live along the mountain range, and experience life from their point-of-view.

A Greek Odyssey with Bettany Hughes

Catch up on My5

Start planning a legendary trip around Greece by following author and historian Bettany Hughes as she follows in the footsteps of Odysseus around the gorgeous Greek islands. You can catch up with all six episodes on My5 and whisk yourself away to a romantic paradise, all while learning about the remarkable history and mythology of the area. Feeling intrigued? Find out more about this spectacular voyage from Bettany Hughes herself in our exclusive interview with her about the trip. 

Travel shows on UKTV

Ricky & ralf's very northern road trip.

Catch up on UKTV Play

Stars of the classic sitcom The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson and Ralf Little, reunite to explore the northern England together. Nothing is off limits, as they visit factories, curry houses, and lakes, as well as looking back on their 20 year-long friendship.

Travel shows on Netflix

The worlds most amazing vacation rentals.

Don’t limit yourself to staying at hotels next time you go on holiday…. Hosts Jo Franco, Megan Batoon, and Luis Ortiz travel the world staying in unique rentals, all at different price points and styles. Luis is a fan of the bougie, Megan loves a bargain and Jo has an eye for the wacky, so there is something for everyone.

Magical Andes

The Andes are much more than a geographical phenomenon to those who live there, it’s their home. In 10 episodes, this show explores the unique lives of various people who live on the Andes and surrounding areas, stretching across South America, from Argentina to Columbia.

Dark Tourist 

This isn’t your average all-inclusive getaway. Join journalist  David Farrier  as he ventures around the world to some of the most unusual and dark tourist spots around. From a nuclear lake to haunted forests, if you like your travel with a side of danger, this is the travel show for you.    

Jack Whitehall: Travels with my Father 

Who doesn’t love an odd couple? Follow comedian  Jack Whitehall  as he travels the world with his stuffy father. As they travel through Southeast Asia, Europe and the U.S.A. trying to strengthen their bond with unique and unusual experiences, this travel show will make you laugh as much as it’ll make you want to pack your bags and head abroad.  

Tales by Light 

Follow photographers and filmmakers as they travel the world capturing stunning images of remarkable people, places, cultures and wildlife. See the world from new and vibrant angles through the eyes of photographers and discover new stories in this eye-opening travel documentary.  

Keep stopping back to find new travel shows which will whisk you away somewhere new and exotic whenever your wanderlust is calling. PLUS, find out what else is  new on TV  and check out our top picks in the  Showcase .  

The Best David Attenborough Documentaries to Watch on Freesat

Uncover the Past: The Top History Documentaries on TV

The best food and cooking shows on TV

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The 25 Best British TV Shows to Stream in 2023

From streaming mega-hits to Britain's best kept secrets.

HBO's Industry takes us inside the fierce and competitive world of fictional investment bank Pierpoint & Co in London. New recruits fight for employment, while navigating exceedingly messy personal lives. Kit Harington joins the show for its eagerly-anticipated third season.

Downton Abbey

The world instantly fell in love with Downton Abbey , Julian Fellowes' fictional series about an aristocratic family living on a country estate in the early 20th century. The immense charm of the series comes from the relationships formed between the family and their employees, from butlers to kitchen aids. Two movies followed .

WATCH ON PEACOCK

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO

WATCH ON BRITBOX

This Is Going to Hurt

Based upon Adam Kay's memoir , This Is Going to Hurt is an unrelenting examination of what it's like to work as a junior doctor in a hospital in the United Kingdom. Ben Whishaw stars as Adam, a young doctor working in the obstetrics and gynaecology department, and dealing with all of the horror and politics it entails.

WATCH ON AMC+

Black Mirror

Charlie Brooker's dystopian TV series only gets darker the long it runs. The dark anthology show has explored everything from our voracious desire for true crime narratives to the frivolous way we share our personal information online. Season 6 stars everyone from Salma Hayek to Aaron Paul.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

Killing Eve

Viewers quickly fell in love with the cat and mouse chase between investigator Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) and dangerous assassin Villanelle (Jodie Comer). Based on the Villanelle novel series by Luke Jennings , this unexpected and often-volatile relationship was explored for four seasons.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge burst on to the scene with Fleabag , a TV series adapted from her stage show of the same name. While dealing with grief, Fleabag muddles through life and love with a unique wit and a penchant for breaking the fourth wall.

Sex Education

Set in the fictional Moordale Secondary School, Sex Education explores the often-embarrassing teenage years we've all lived through. The incredible cast features Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Ncuti Gatwa, and Emma Mackey, among others. A fourth season is on the way.

Netflix's smash hit Bridgerton marked Shondaland's debut on the streaming service. Adapted from Julia Quinn's series of Regency Era-inspired novels, Bridgerton focuses on the social hierarchy in London society, and the over-the-top romances occurring between eligible suitors. The show's first spin-off, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, arrived in 2023.

Catastrophe

Catastrophe explores what happens when a fling leads to pregnancy. Throughout four seasons, Sharon and Rob attempt to build a life after unexpectedly welcoming a child together. Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney created, wrote, and star in the hilarious show, while Carrie Fisher makes a wonderful guest appearance.

Idris Elba stars as DCI John Luther in this gritty police drama, which sees him forced to choose between his personal relationships and his talent for solving bloody crimes. The Affair 's Ruth Wilson plays a wonderful nemesis. Most recently, the detective returned in Netflix film Luther: The Fallen Son .

Broadchurch

Olivia Colman and David Tennant star as detectives investigating the death of a young boy in a coastal town. Season 1's shocking denouement genuinely surprised viewers, with Colman and Tennant's performances being widely lauded. Two more seasons and an American remake followed.

WATCH ON PBS

Vanity Fair

William Makepeace Thackeray's 1848 novel has been adapted on many occasions. 2018's seven-part series is a spritely adaptation, featuring modern flair and an incredible cast. The show follows Becky Sharp (Olivia Cooke) as she attempts to rise the social classes by snagging a rich man, amongst other things.

I May Destroy You

Writer and creator Michaela Coel stars as millennial novelist Arabella Essiedu, whose attempts to write a second book are stalled when she is sexually assaulted. After remembering what happened to her, Arabella struggles to confront the assault, which leads her down a potentially dangerous path.

WATCH ON MAX

Created by British-Irish author Cash Carraway, Rain Dogs tracks the unexpected friendship between a working class author and her very rich gay best friend. The unstoppable Daisy May Cooper stars as single mom Costello, who is trying to be taken seriously as a writer while navigating the realities of life in England.

I Hate Suzie

Billie Piper stars as Suzie Pickles, a former child star whose career is thrown into jeopardy when an explicit photo of her is leaked. To make matters worse, the photo exposes Susie's affair with a colleague, and threatens to lose her the biggest gig of her career. Co-created by Piper and Succession writer Lucy Prebble.

Apple TV+'s Trying follows Nikki (Esther Smith) and Jason (Rafe Spall), a couple who decide to adopt when they're unable to have a baby. Trying follows the ups and downs of their decision to expand their family, and remains one of the most heartfelt shows on the streaming platform. A fourth season is in the works.

WATCH ON APPLE TV+

The Night Manager

Based on John le Carré's novel of the same name , The Night Manager focuses on Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston), a hotel worker in Cairo and former soldier who's recruited to investigate illegal arms dealer Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie). A second season is on the way.

Netflix's Obsession probably isn't one of the "best" British TV shows of all time, but it's definitely one of the most talked about. Richard Armitage stars as a man drawn into a 50 Shades of Grey -esque relationship with his son's girlfriend, much to the detriment of, well, everything. The show's sex scenes have been the focus of much discussion.

Without the BBC's version of The Office , there is no Michael Scott, so we're extremely thankful for the iconic British show. Ricky Gervais takes the lead as David Brent, the obnoxious and embarrassing boss at a fictional paper company. The show ran for just two seasons, but certainly left its mark on popular culture.

WATCH ON HULU

Derry Girls

Set in Northern Ireland in the early '90s, Derry Girls follows five young adults as they attend an all-girls Catholic high school. Set against the backdrop of the Troubles, the series references many real-life political events, while also exploring the lives of its female characters. The pop soundtrack is extremely nostalgic.

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Really Good British TV Series and Miniseries

I really love British television and here is a list of British TV series and miniseries I really like. Period drama is a personal favorite (as you may notice). Note: I only list series I've seen.

• Movies or TV
• IMDb Rating
• In Theaters
• Release Year

1. Downton Abbey (2010–2015)

TV-PG | 60 min | Drama, Romance

A chronicle of the lives of the British aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the early twentieth century.

Stars: Hugh Bonneville , Phyllis Logan , Elizabeth McGovern , Brendan Coyle

Votes: 224,497

ITV - A period drama series

2. Being Human (2008–2013)

TV-14 | 60 min | Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

A werewolf, a vampire, and a ghost try to live together and get along.

Stars: Lenora Crichlow , Russell Tovey , Aidan Turner , Sinéad Keenan

Votes: 26,514

BBC - A supernatural drama series

3. A Mother's Son (2012)

92 min | Drama, Thriller

A mother suspects that her son could be the killer of a recently found dead girl, and becomes caught in a torturous dilemma of whether to denounce him, or protect him and hide the act.

Stars: Hermione Norris , Martin Clunes , Paul McGann , Alexander Arnold

Votes: 1,474

ITV - A two-part drama miniseries

4. Bleak House (2005)

TV-PG | 30 min | Crime, Drama

A suspenseful tale about the injustices of the 19th Century English legal system.

Stars: Anna Maxwell Martin , Carey Mulligan , Denis Lawson , Gillian Anderson

Votes: 10,603

BBC - A fifteen-part period drama miniseries

5. Call the Midwife (2012– )

TV-PG | 60 min | Drama, History

Chronicles the lives of a group of midwives living in East London in the late 1950s to late 1960s.

Stars: Vanessa Redgrave , Laura Main , Jenny Agutter , Stephen McGann

Votes: 31,376

BBC - A period drama series

6. Emma (2009)

TV-PG | 62 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

Emma Woodhouse, a wealthy young woman living in the early 19th century, whose misplaced confidence in her matchmaking abilities occasions several romantic misadventures, which leads her into deeper meanings of love and life

Stars: Romola Garai , Michael Gambon , Jonny Lee Miller , Jodhi May

Votes: 18,019

BBC - A four-part period drama miniseries

7. Great Expectations (2011–2012)

TV-PG | 60 min | Drama

The orphan Pip becomes a gentleman when his life is transformed by a mystery benefactor.

Stars: Douglas Booth , Jack Roth , Ray Winstone , David Suchet

Votes: 8,233

BBC - A three-part period drama miniseries

8. Ice Cream Girls (2013)

Follows two women who were accused as teens of killing a school teacher.

Stars: Jodhi May , Lorraine Burroughs , Holli Dempsey , Georgina Campbell

ITV - A three-part drama miniseries

9. In the Flesh (2013–2014)

TV-14 | 56 min | Comedy, Drama, Horror

Four years after the Rising, the government starts to rehabilitate the Undead for reentry into society, including teenager Kieren Walker, who returns to his small Lancashire village to face a hostile reception, as well as his own demons.

Stars: Luke Newberry , Harriet Cains , Marie Critchley , Steve Cooper

Votes: 13,918

10. Land Girls (2009–2011)

TV-14 | 225 min | Drama

Follow the lives, loves and highs and lows of four members of the Women's Land Army who are working at the Hoxley Estate during World War II.

Stars: Becci Gemmell , Susan Cookson , Mark Benton , Mykola Allen

Votes: 3,570

11. Leaving (2012)

60 min | Drama

The forbidden love between a middle-aged family woman and a callow youth working in the same hotel.

Stars: Helen McCrory , Callum Turner , Sean Gallagher , Amelia Young

ITV - A three-part romantic drama miniseries

12. Lightfields (2013)

60 min | Drama, Mystery

A tragic death in 1944 sends ghostly ripples down the years ensuring that the truth will eventually surface, whatever the cost.

Stars: Dakota Blue Richards , Sophie Thompson , Kris Marshall , Lucy Cohu

Votes: 1,007

ITV - A five-part supernatural drama miniseries

13. Little Dorrit (2008)

TV-PG | 34 min | Drama, Mystery, Romance

The Dorrits are a family whose life revolves around the Marshalsea, a debtor's prison. Amy Dorrit's kind nature brings the family into contact with a wide swath of English society, from the poorest to the richest, and back again.

Stars: Matthew Macfadyen , Claire Foy , Tom Courtenay , Judy Parfitt

Votes: 10,459

BBC - A fourteen-part period drama miniseries

14. True Love (2012)

30 min | Drama, Romance

Five different improvised stories exploring the reality of love in the modern world.

Stars: Jo Woodcock , Charlie Creed-Miles , Kaya Scodelario , Lacey Turner

15. Lost in Austen (2008)

TV-14 | 45 min | Drama, Fantasy, Romance

Amanda, an ardent Jane Austen fan, lives in present day London with her boyfriend Michael, until she finds she's swapped places with Austen's fictional creation Elizabeth Bennet.

Stars: Jemima Rooper , Morven Christie , Alex Kingston , Hugh Bonneville

Votes: 11,430

ITV - A four-part miniseries

16. Marchlands (2011)

A supernatural drama telling the story of three different families living in the same house in 1968, 1987 and the present day, linked by the spirit of the young daughter of the 1960s family, who drowned in mysterious circumstances.

Stars: Alex Kingston , Dean Andrews , Shelley Conn , Jodie Whittaker

Votes: 1,741

17. Misfits (2009–2013)

TV-MA | 60 min | Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

A group of young offenders doing community service gets struck by lightning during a storm and start to develop superpowers.

Stars: Nathan Stewart-Jarrett , Joe Gilgun , Iwan Rheon , Lauren Socha

Votes: 107,186

E4 - A science fiction comedy-drama series

18. Mr Selfridge (2013–2016)

TV-14 | 45 min | Drama, History

Centers on the real-life story of the flamboyant and visionary American founder of Selfridge's, London's department store.

Stars: Ron Cook , Jeremy Piven , Tom Goodman-Hill , Amy Beth Hayes

Votes: 16,930

19. My Mad Fat Diary (2013–2015)

TV-MA | 47 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance

Set in the mid-90s at the height of Cool Britannia, a drama based on real diaries takes an honest look at teenage life through the eyes of funny, music-mad Rae

Stars: Ciara Baxendale , Dan Cohen , Jodie Comer , Darren Evans

Votes: 18,861

E4 - A comedy-drama series

20. North & South (2004)

TV-PG | 235 min | Drama, Romance

North and South is a four-part adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's love story of Margaret Hale, a middle-class southerner who is forced to move to the northern town of Milton.

Stars: Daniela Denby-Ashe , Richard Armitage , Tim Pigott-Smith , Sinéad Cusack

Votes: 34,897

21. Pramface (2012–2014)

A girl from a middle-class family gets drunk one night, sleeps with a younger working-class boy, and gets pregnant.

Stars: Sean Verey , Scarlett Alice Johnson , Yasmin Paige , Dylan Edwards

Votes: 2,666

BBC - A comedy series

22. Restless (2012 TV Movie)

180 min | Drama, Romance

A young woman finds out that her mother worked as a spy for the British Secret Service during World War II and has been on the run ever since.

Director: Edward Hall | Stars: Michelle Dockery , Michael Peter Willis , Charlotte Rampling , Hayley Atwell

Votes: 3,647

BBC - A two-part drama miniseries

23. Skins (2007–2013)

TV-MA | 46 min | Drama

The story of a group of British teens who are trying to grow up and find love and happiness despite questionable parenting and teachers who would rather be friends (and lovers) than authority figures.

Stars: Kaya Scodelario , Nicholas Hoult , Joe Dempsie , Hannah Murray

Votes: 92,949

E4 - A teen drama series

24. Merlin (2008–2012)

TV-PG | 45 min | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy

These are the brand new adventures of Merlin, the legendary sorcerer as a young man, when he was just a servant to young Prince Arthur on the royal court of Camelot, who has soon become his best friend, and turned Arthur into a great king and a legend.

Stars: John Hurt , Colin Morgan , Bradley James , Richard Wilson

Votes: 87,143

BBC - A fantasy-adventure drama series

25. Torchwood (2006–2011)

TV-MA | 50 min | Action, Drama, Mystery

The members of the Torchwood Institute, a secret organization founded by the British Crown, fight to protect the Earth from extraterrestrial and supernatural threats.

Stars: John Barrowman , Eve Myles , Kai Owen , Gareth David-Lloyd

Votes: 43,405

BBC - A science fiction drama series and a Doctor Who spin-off

26. Upstairs Downstairs (2010–2012)

A new family and their servants live at the London townhouse at 165 Eaton Place in 1936.

Stars: Keeley Hawes , Ed Stoppard , Adrian Scarborough , Neil Jackson

Votes: 6,815

27. The Village (2013–2014)

TV-14 | 60 min | Drama

Follows the residents of one English village across the 20th century and their turbulent lives.

Stars: David Ryall , Maxine Peake , John Simm , Charlie Murphy

Votes: 2,720

28. The Paradise (2012–2013)

The story of a young woman who works in a department store and gets caught up in the charms of the modern world.

Stars: Joanna Vanderham , Emun Elliott , Stephen Wight , Sonya Cassidy

Votes: 12,584

29. The Diary of Anne Frank (2009)

150 min | Biography, Drama, History

During World War II, a teenage Jewish girl named Anne Frank and her family are forced into hiding in the Nazi-occupied Netherlands.

Stars: Kate Ashfield , Geoffrey Breton , Ron Cook , Tim Dantay

Votes: 3,415

BBC - A five-part drama miniseries

30. Birdsong (2012)

Not Rated | 83 min | Drama, Romance, War

As an English soldier fights in the horrific trenches of northern France, he is haunted by the memories of his forbidden love affair with a French woman.

Stars: Eddie Redmayne , Clémence Poésy , Matthew Goode , Thomas Turgoose

Votes: 6,002

31. What Remains (2013)

TV-MA | 59 min | Drama, Mystery, Thriller

A young couple move into an apartment only to find the body of a young woman that had been missing for 2 years but never registered as missing which leads to a deeper investigation into what actually happened.

Stars: Alexander Arnold , David Bamber , Claudie Blakley , Denise Gough

Votes: 4,147

BBC - A four-part drama miniseries

32. Miranda (2009–2015)

TV-MA | 30 min | Comedy

Socially inept Miranda always gets into awkward situations; working in her joke shop with best friend Stevie, being hounded by her pushy mother, and around her crush Gary.

Stars: Miranda Hart , Patricia Hodge , Tom Ellis , Sarah Hadland

Votes: 17,104

BBC - A sitcom series

33. The Line of Beauty (2006)

177 min | Drama, Romance

A young man becomes attached to a family that's not his own, and casts himself into the life of plentiful riches and gay love affairs for which he seems destined.

Stars: Dan Stevens , Tim McInnerny , Hayley Atwell , Alice Krige

Votes: 1,908

BBC - A three-part drama miniseries

34. Young Dracula (2006–2014)

25 min | Comedy, Family, Fantasy

A young vampire trying to fit in as a normal boy in a normal society.

Stars: Keith-Lee Castle , Clare Thomas , Simon Ludders , Gerran Howell

Votes: 1,848

BBC - A teen horror drama series

35. Sherlock (2010–2017)

TV-14 | 90 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery

The quirky spin on Conan Doyle's iconic sleuth pitches him as a "high-functioning sociopath" in modern-day London. Assisting him in his investigations: Afghanistan War vet John Watson, who's introduced to Holmes by a mutual acquaintance.

Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch , Martin Freeman , Una Stubbs , Rupert Graves

Votes: 995,870

BBC - A crime drama series

36. Dancing on the Edge (2013)

TV-MA | 449 min | Drama

Set in the 1930s, a black Jazz band rises in fame and popularity while becoming entangled in an intricate web of intrigue, mystery and suspense with the elite of London society.

Stars: Chiwetel Ejiofor , Matthew Goode , Joanna Vanderham , Wunmi Mosaku

Votes: 2,836

BBC - A five-part period drama miniseries

37. Breathless (2013)

A TV series set in early 1960s England and centered around the doctors and nurses in a gynecology ward.

Stars: Catherine Steadman , Zoe Boyle , Shaun Dingwall , Jack Davenport

Votes: 1,512

ITV - A period drama series. Sadly only one season.

38. This Is England '86 (2010)

TV-MA | 47 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama

Shaun has just finished his final exams and he realizes he is no longer a kid. It's mid 80's England, and the gang are back, looking for a laugh, a job and something that resembles a future.

Stars: Andrew Ellis , Andrew Shim , Chanel Cresswell , Danielle Watson

Votes: 14,476

Channel 4 - A four-part drama miniseries and a spin-off from the film "This Is England" (2006).

39. This Is England '88 (2011)

TV-MA | 48 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama

Christmas 1988. Soulmates Woody and Lol find themselves in exile from each other and the gang. Trying to understand the definition 'growing up', Shaun begins a course at College, that quickly takes a wrong turn.

Stars: Andrew Ellis , Andrew Shim , Chanel Cresswell , Charlotte Tyree

Votes: 11,543

Channel 4 - A three-part drama miniseries and a sequel to "This Is England '86".

40. The Crimson Field (2014)

TV-PG | 60 min | Drama, War

During the First World War, Kitty Trevelyan tries to put the past troubles behind her as she joins two other girls to volunteer at one of the busy war hospitals in northern France.

Stars: Hermione Norris , Oona Chaplin , Richard Rankin , Marianne Oldham

Votes: 3,392

BBC - A period drama series. Sadly only one season.

41. Room at the Top (2012)

120 min | Drama, Romance

An adaption of John Braine's novel.

Stars: Matthew McNulty , Maxine Peake , Jenna Coleman , Tom Brooke

42. Our Zoo (2014)

312 min | Drama, History

A drama series about the family who founded Chester Zoo in the 1930s.

Stars: Lee Ingleby , Liz White , Anne Reid , Honor Kneafsey

Votes: 1,480

BBC - A six-part drama miniseries

43. Wolfblood (2012–2017)

TV-PG | 30 min | Family, Fantasy

Maddy Smith and her family are the only wolfbloods in Stoneybridge, which is a well-kept secret. They lead a peaceful life until Rhydian, a wolfblood, arrives and triggers chaos.

Stars: Gabrielle Green , Leona Vaughan , Shorelle Hepkin , Mark Fleischmann

Votes: 4,006

BBC - A teen supernatural drama series

44. Beaver Falls (2011–2012)

Comedy, Drama

Three British students decided to spend their summer in an American summer camp and make a large impression on fellow camp workers and the campers.

Stars: Samuel Robertson , John Dagleish , Kristen Gutoskie , Arsher Ali

Votes: 2,345

45. Parade's End (2012)

TV-MA | 57 min | Action, Drama, Romance

Revolves around a love triangle between a conservative English aristocrat, his mean socialite wife and a young suffragette.

Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch , Rebecca Hall , Roger Allam , Adelaide Clemens

Votes: 10,730

46. Starlings (2012– )

60 min | Comedy

'Starlings' follows the lives of a typical working-class family who live in Derbyshire. Granddad has recently moved in, following an incident at the old folks' home. Rather than see him ... See full summary  »

Stars: Brendan Coyle , Lesley Sharp , Steve Edge , Rebecca Night

Sky 1 - A comedy-drama series

47. Survivors (I) (2008–2010)

TV-PG | 60 min | Drama, Sci-Fi

An unknown virus pandemic kills more than 90% of the world's population. Those immune must strive to survive and overcome the difficulties of this new world order, hoping that the virus will not mutate.

Stars: Julie Graham , Max Beesley , Paterson Joseph , Zoë Tapper

Votes: 8,913

BBC - A science fiction drama series

48. Cucumber (2015)

TV-MA | 50 min | Drama

Modern gay life in Manchester.

Stars: Vincent Franklin , Julie Hesmondhalgh , James Murray , Fisayo Akinade

Votes: 3,758

Channel 4 - A drama series

49. Banana (2015)

TV-MA | 188 min | Drama

Celebrate love without labels; join eight different couples on their journey of love, heartbreak, sex, and drama.

Stars: Fisayo Akinade , Freddie Fox , Vincent Franklin , Letitia Wright

Votes: 2,591

E4 - A drama series and sister series to Channel 4's Cucumber.

50. Fresh Meat (2011–2016)

TV-MA | 50 min | Comedy, Drama

A comedy that follows a group of six students about to embark on the most exciting period of their lives so far, university.

Stars: Zawe Ashton , Greg McHugh , Kimberley Nixon , Charlotte Ritchie

Votes: 19,467

Channel 4 - A comedy-drama series

51. In the Club (2014–2016)

Drama series about a group of expectant parents who bond at pre-natal classes and the lives of the couples leading up to the births.

Stars: Katherine Parkinson , Hermione Norris , Christine Bottomley , Jill Halfpenny

BBC - A drama series

52. The Driver (2014)

180 min | Crime, Drama

Taxi driver Vince McKee finds his life taking an unexpected turn after he accepts an offer to drive for a criminal gang.

Stars: David Morrissey , Claudie Blakley , Ian Hart , Sacha Parkinson

Votes: 2,023

53. Our Girl (2013–2020)

TV-14 | 60 min | Action, Drama, Thriller

Drama following the extraordinary adventures of female medics in the British Army.

Stars: Michelle Keegan , Sean Ward , Ben Aldridge , Rolan Bell

Votes: 4,843

54. The Outcast (2015)

179 min | Drama

A young boy struggles to fit into the life of a post-war English village after witnessing the death of his mother.

Stars: Finn Elliot , Hattie Morahan , Greg Wise , Nathaniel Parker

Votes: 1,193

55. Poldark (2015–2019)

TV-14 | 60 min | Drama, Romance

Ross Poldark returns home after American Revolutionary War and rebuilds his life with a new business venture, making new enemies and finding a new love where he least expects it.

Stars: Aidan Turner , Eleanor Tomlinson , Jack Farthing , Beatie Edney

Votes: 36,019

56. This Is England '90 (2015)

55 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama

The year is 1990, the rave scene has just entered England. The sound of the Stone roses lurks toward Shaun and the gang. This means that Woody and Lol are living in a domestic bliss, they are happy again. But this year will see huge changes in everyone. This is the year 1990. This is England.

Stars: Lyra Mae Thomas , Chanel Cresswell , Vicky McClure , Joe Gilgun

Votes: 9,518

Channel 4 - A four-part drama miniseries and a sequel to "This Is England '88". The end of the "This Is England-saga".

57. London Spy (2015)

60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery

A chance romance between two men from very different worlds, one from the headquarters of the Secret Intelligence Service, the other from a world of clubbing and youthful excess, leads into mystery after one of them is found murdered.

Stars: Ben Whishaw , Edward Holcroft , Jim Broadbent , Zrinka Cvitesic

Votes: 10,387

58. Doctor Thorne (2016)

TV-G | 48 min | Drama

Penniless Mary Thorne grows up with her uncle, Doctor Thorne, and develops a friendship with the family at the nearby Greshamsbury Park estate.

Stars: Harry Richardson , Tom Hollander , Stefanie Martini , Rebecca Front

Votes: 5,227

ITV - A three-part period drama miniseries

59. Victoria (2016–2019)

TV-PG | 60 min | Biography, Drama, History

The early life of Queen Victoria, from her ascension to the throne at the tender age of 18 to her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert.

Stars: Jenna Coleman , Adrian Schiller , Tommy Knight , Jordan Waller

Votes: 30,818

60. The Crown (2016–2023)

TV-MA | 60 min | Biography, Drama, History

Follows the political rivalries and romances of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and the events that shaped Britain for the second half of the 20th century.

Stars: Claire Foy , Olivia Colman , Imelda Staunton , Matt Smith

Votes: 256,197

Netflix - A drama series

61. Home Fires (2015–2016)

TV-PG | 45 min | Drama, War

A drama following a group of inspirational women in a rural Cheshire community during World War II.

Stars: Clare Calbraith , Brian Fletcher , Samantha Bond , Ruth Gemmell

Votes: 4,350

62. Man in an Orange Shirt (2017)

Tales of love across two films highlighting the very different challenges that face the couples, With Michael and Thomas just after WWII, and Adam and Steve in the present day.

Stars: Julian Morris , Vanessa Redgrave , Oliver Jackson-Cohen , Charlie Wernham

Votes: 4,589

63. War & Peace (2016)

TV-14 | 63 min | Drama, History, Romance

As the Russian conflict with Napoleon reaches its peak, five aristocratic families face the possibility of their lives being changed forever.

Stars: Paul Dano , James Norton , Lily James , Adrian Edmondson

Votes: 26,557

64. The End of the F***ing World (2017–2019)

TV-MA | 25 min | Adventure, Comedy, Crime

James is 17 and is pretty sure he is a psychopath. Alyssa, also 17, is the cool and moody new girl at school. The pair make a connection and she persuades him to embark on a road trip in search of her real father.

Stars: Jessica Barden , Alex Lawther , Steve Oram , Christine Bottomley

Votes: 219,332

Channel 4 /All 4 - A dark comedy-drama series

65. Lovesick (2014–2018)

TV-MA | 24 min | Comedy

After finding out he has an STD, Dylan must get back in touch with every girl he has ever had sex with to let them know the bad news.

Stars: Johnny Flynn , Antonia Thomas , Daniel Ings , Joshua McGuire

Votes: 22,617

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Race Across the World series four review – TV that makes you feel that there is hope

It’s back! The BBC’s smartphone-free travel sends contestants racing from Japan to Indonesia, and it’s as full of human kindness and intimate relationship portraits as ever

R ace Across the World might be one of television’s most wholesome shows. Now into its fourth series proper, after a Covid-delayed celebrity spin-off last year, it follows paired teams as they attempt to travel thousands of miles without some of the comfortable trappings of modern life. Contestants hand over their smartphones and bank cards and are given the cash equivalent of the cost of a one-way flight to their final destination. They must get to the end through a series of checkpoints using public transport and ingenuity, taking on odd jobs to earn extra funds, and, crucially, relying on the kindness of strangers along the way.

Since it made its debut in 2019, the series has grown in popularity, and by 2023, moved from its original BBC Two home to BBC One, much like Bake Off and Peaky Blinders before it. During the pandemic, it offered much-needed escapism. It even got a celebrity version, as all successful TV competitions must. Better still, the celebrity version wasn’t a substandard cash-in. Watching an All Saint and a member of McFly carting their mums from Marrakech to the Arctic Circle on a series of exhausting overnight rail journeys might not sound like gripping TV, but the show was remarkable. Its challenge highlights the kindness of strangers and plumbs the psychology of some of our closest relationships.

Series four offers more of the same, with a few subtle differences. The competitors seem a little younger, and Japan’s bullet trains are forbidden. Otherwise, it is business as usual, and this suits it very well.

Over the course of eight episodes, the five teams must travel from the island of Hokkaido, in the north of Japan, to the Indonesian island of Lombok, a journey of roughly 9,300 miles (15,000km), across seven countries, over 50 days. Last series, the pairs travelled across Canada, where most people they encountered spoke English. But this journey entails linguistic barriers, and a need to navigate what may be, for some, brand new cultural norms.

Episode one introduces us to the teams and sets them off on a voyage through Japan. At the start, they are usually jittery and error-prone. One of the teams, best friends Alfie and Owen, are the show’s youngest participants to date. They are baby-faced 20-year-olds who are the most overtly competitive and they have, perhaps, the most to learn – about the world and about themselves.

“We have got to budget our bums off,” insists Alfie, sweetly, before either he or Owen – they’re not going to argue about it, although they clearly will – misplaces the all-important map.

At the other end of the age spectrum are Stephen and Viv, an older married couple who have both recently suffered health problems, and whose approach is more laid back. As Alfie and Owen frantically yoyo between Tokyo and other destinations, Stephen and Viv enjoy a bath in hot springs. Betty and James are siblings, aged 25 and 21, who have polar-opposite approaches to travel: Betty likes to take in other cultures; James prefers an Ayia Napa trip with the lads. And there are two mother-daughter teams, Eugenie and Isabel, and Brydie and Sharon.

Travelling in this manner is high-pressured and alien, even for contestants with globetrotting experience, and Race Across the World shows just how illuminating and revelatory it can be to take people out of a familiar environment and task them with making their way in a wholly new one. Isabel turns out to be a language savant, picking up Japanese at a rate that impresses her stunned mother. Brydie, who has severe dyslexia, says that she is so used to asking people for help that she has no problem doing so on this adventure. And even for people who know each other very well, the challenge creates supercharged intimacy.

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Race Across the World is a travelogue, a history lesson, an exploration of psychology, and a thrilling competition (the programme-makers are very good at making it all seem impossibly close in the edit, even when teams are hours apart). But I love that it is also humanitarian, when all can seem so very bleak, and suggests there is still hope in the world, if we open our horizons.

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The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug

Embarking on a virtual journey through the vast world of television reveals an exciting genre that has been inspiring wanderlust for decades: travel shows. These wondrous shows, spanning from educational documentaries to entertaining reality series, take audiences on a globe-trotting adventure right from their living room. Through vibrant imagery, engaging storytelling, and exuberant hosts, viewers get to experience the thrill of exploration and discovery without leaving their couch.

Travel shows are more than just prime-time escapism; they're a celebration of our diverse planet and its fascinating cultures. The magic of these programs lies in their ability to showcase stunning landscapes unknown to some and present a plethora of unique experiences - from tasting exotic foods to navigating unfamiliar terrains. Whether it's relishing the spice-infused dishes of Southeast Asia or tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations in Europe, these shows captivate audiences with their rich narrative and visual allure.

Shows like Parts Unknown and Departures stand as paragons of the genre, cleverly blending travelogue and documentary to engage audiences. Parts Unknown , hosted by the late Anthony Bourdain, serves as a culinary compass pointing to remote corners of the world. On the other hand, Departures exhibits the art of backpacking, veering off the beaten path, and embracing serendipity. Other notable mentions like An Idiot Abroad , Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations , and Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern , offer a gamut of perspectives – from humorously honest to culturally sensitive, and are available for viewers eager to embark on these viewing voyages, to be viewed across streaming options across platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Paramount+, and Max.

The best travel television shows offer a passport to the world, opening doors to places both renowned and obscure. They shine a spotlight on the world's diversity and challenge viewers to see beyond their backyard. So, let those engines of curiosities roar and embrace the thrill of discovery as you delve into these travelogues, each one a unique postcard from the farthest reaches of the globe.

Departures is a masterpiece of travel television, immersing viewers in an authentic and raw exploration of various cultures, landscapes, and human connections. The show's hosts, Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach, offer a genuine and relatable portrayal of two friends embarking on a journey around the globe, making viewers feel like they are right there with them. With its brilliant cinematography and engrossing storytelling, Departures  showcases the transformative power of travel, creating an undeniable sense of wanderlust in all who watch. More than just a typical travelogue, this series delves into the heart of cultural experiences, leaving viewers inspired to take their own adventures.

Is Departures Worth Your Time?

Parts Unknown

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown remains a trailblazer among travel shows, thanks to its unapologetic and thought-provoking examination of often-overlooked destinations. Bourdain's passion for exploring the world, combined with his innate curiosity and respect for other cultures, truly sets this show apart from its contemporaries. Through intimate conversations with locals and immersive culinary experiences, Parts Unknown  expertly intertwines the themes of food, culture, and travel, revealing the interconnected nature of humanity. With its mesmerizing storytelling and rich cultural insights, this groundbreaking series leaves viewers yearning for a deeper understanding of the world.

Is Anthony Bourdain: Part... Worth Your Time?

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

With Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations , viewers are treated to a unique blend of culinary curiosity, cultural immersion, and a healthy dose of humor. Bourdain's willingness to jump headfirst into any experience, from sharing a meal with a tribal community to facing his fears in a haunted Romanian forest, highlights the transformative nature of travel. No Reservations  artfully showcases how culture and cuisine inform one another, as Bourdain uncovers the hidden stories and flavors of each destination. The show's marriage of culinary delights and globe-trotting adventure will leave viewers hungry for their own epicurean escapades.

Is Anthony Bourdain: No R... Worth Your Time?

The Layover

In The Layover , Anthony Bourdain takes viewers on a whirlwind tour of cities around the world, making the most of the limited timeframe a layover provides. By showcasing the best each destination has to offer in just 24 to 48 hours, the show highlights the importance of embracing spontaneity and flexibility in travel. Bourdain's charismatic personality and insider tips make him the ultimate travel companion, proving that meaningful experiences can be had even in the briefest of moments. With its fast-paced adventures and hidden gems, The Layover  inspires viewers to seize every opportunity for exploration, no matter how fleeting.

Is The Layover Worth Your Time?

Travels in Europe with Rick Steves

Travels in Europe with Rick Steves stands out as a quintessential travel show that effortlessly transports viewers to the continent's most iconic destinations. Steves' genuine enthusiasm for European history and culture, paired with his expert guidance, helps demystify foreign travel for beginners while also captivating experienced globetrotters. Through engaging storytelling and valuable travel tips, the show encourages viewers to connect with locals and immerse themselves in authentic experiences. Travels in Europe with Rick Steves  is a must-watch for those looking to explore Europe with both reverence and curiosity.

Is Travels in Europe with... Worth Your Time?

An Idiot Abroad

An Idiot Abroad offers a refreshingly irreverent take on travel, delivering equal parts humor and cultural insight. Following Karl Pilkington, a reluctant traveler with a penchant for comedic grumbling, the series documents his experiences exploring the world at the insistence of his friends, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. The show cleverly juxtaposes Pilkington's unconventional perspective with the rich tapestry of global cultures, resulting in a truly unique and entertaining travelogue. With its offbeat humor and endearing protagonist, An Idiot Abroad  showcases the transformative potential of travel, even for the most skeptical of sojourners.

Is An Idiot Abroad Worth Your Time?

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Insomniac with Dave Attell

Insomniac with Dave Attell dives headfirst into the captivating world of nocturnal exploration, shedding light on the unique experiences and characters that come to life after dark. Hosted by comedian Dave Attell, the show unearths the hidden gems of nightlife around the globe, from bustling city centers to remote rural haunts. In each destination, Attell engages with locals and seeks out the bizarre, the unexpected, and the downright hilarious, highlighting the importance of embracing spontaneity in travel. Insomniac with Dave Attell  reveals a world typically hidden from tourists' eyes, inspiring viewers to embrace the unexpected during their own night-time adventures.

Is Insomniac with Dave At... Worth Your Time?

Globe Trekker

Globe Trekker has earned its place among the best travel shows, thanks to its engaging hosts, stunning cinematography, and unrivaled cultural insights. Venturing off the beaten path, the series exposes viewers to lesser-known destinations and traditions, fostering a deeper understanding of the world's diverse cultures. With its rotating cast of enthusiastic hosts, Globe Trekker  highlights the importance of embracing new experiences and remaining open to learning from others. Packed with adventure, heart, and valuable knowledge, this iconic series leaves viewers eager to embark on their own globe-trotting expeditions.

Is Globe Trekker Worth Your Time?

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern is a tantalizing feast for the senses that takes viewers on a culinary journey unlike any other. Host Andrew Zimmern expertly weaves together the worlds of food and travel, exploring fascinating cultures through their most unusual dishes. Encouraging open-mindedness and curiosity, Zimmern demonstrates that seemingly bizarre foods are often integral to a culture's identity and history. With its mouth-watering cuisine and captivating storytelling, Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern  reveals the delicious potential for discovery when travelers venture beyond their comfort zones.

Is Bizarre Foods with And... Worth Your Time?

Michael Palin: Around the World in 80 Days

Taking inspiration from Jules Verne's classic novel, Michael Palin: Around the World in 80 Days  chronicles the host's exhilarating attempt to circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days – without air travel. Palin's charming wit, affable nature, and determination make him an ideal travel companion, as he explores diverse cultures and overcomes numerous challenges. The series ingeniously marries the thrilling adventure of global exploration with the timeless appeal of a literary classic, encapsulating the true spirit of wanderlust. Around the World in 80 Days  captivates viewers with its unforgettable journey, proving that the spirit of adventure is alive and well.

Is Michael Palin: Around ... Worth Your Time?

Full Circle with Michael Palin

In Full Circle with Michael Palin , viewers are treated to a breathtaking journey around the Pacific Rim, guided by the inimitable charm and wit of the beloved host. Palin immerses himself in the diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories of the region, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity along the way. The show excels in showcasing the beauty and wonder of travel, inspiring viewers to look beyond their own borders and embrace the spirit of global exploration. With its captivating storytelling and stunning visuals, Full Circle with Michael Palin  provides an unforgettable voyage for all who join the adventure.

Is Full Circle with Micha... Worth Your Time?

Passport to Europe

Passport to Europe whisks viewers away on an enchanting tour of the continent's most captivating cities and landscapes, guided by the delightful Samantha Brown. With her infectious enthusiasm, Brown expertly navigates each destination's cultural nuances, blending sightseeing highlights with hidden gems and local experiences. The show strikes a perfect balance between practical travel advice and immersive storytelling, inspiring viewers to embark on their own European adventures. Passport to Europe  is a must-watch for those looking to discover the charm and allure of this storied continent with an engaging and knowledgeable host.

Is Passport to Europe Worth Your Time?

As the name suggests, Raw Travel  delivers an unfiltered and authentic look at the world, delving deeper into local cultures and their unique stories. With its focus on sustainable tourism and human connections, the show offers a refreshing departure from the typical travelogue, encouraging viewers to travel with a purpose. By showcasing off-the-beaten-path destinations and experiences, Raw Travel  fosters a newfound appreciation for the rich tapestry of human cultures and traditions. This thought-provoking series is sure to ignite the wanderlust in even the most seasoned travelers, inspiring them to seek out more meaningful and transformative journeys.

Is Raw Travel Worth Your Time?

Samantha Brown's Great Weekends

Samantha Brown's Great Weekends offers viewers an engaging and attainable approach to travel, with host Samantha Brown curating the ultimate weekend getaways across North America. Brown's warm personality and keen eye for unique experiences make her the perfect guide, ensuring that each adventure feels both exciting and accessible. The show's focus on shorter trips highlights the importance of seizing opportunities for exploration, no matter how limited one's time may be. With its invigorating mix of exhilarating activities, stunning locales, and valuable travel tips, Samantha Brown's Great Weekends  proves that unforgettable adventures are closer than you think.

Is Samantha Brown's Great... Worth Your Time?

Pole to Pole

In Pole to Pole , Michael Palin embarks on yet another extraordinary journey, traveling from the North Pole to the South Pole along the 30-degree East line of longitude. As he traverses an array of countries, cultures, and landscapes, Palin's characteristic wit and warmth shine through, making him an ideal travel companion. The show skillfully demonstrates the diversity and beauty of our planet while highlighting the shared human experiences that bridge geographical divides. With its stirring storytelling and awe-inspiring visuals, Pole to Pole  is a testament to the transformative power and endless wonder of travel.

Is Pole to Pole Worth Your Time?

The Thirsty Traveler

The Thirsty Traveler takes viewers on a spirited tour of the world, delving into the history, culture, and production behind various alcoholic beverages. Host Kevin Brauch's engaging personality and passion for libations make for a captivating and informative journey, as he explores the local customs and flavors associated with each drink. Through lively interactions with local experts and immersive experiences, the show highlights the central role beverages play in bringing people together across cultures. The Thirsty Traveler  is a unique and intoxicating blend of travel, history, and culinary exploration, sure to leave viewers thirsting for more.

Is The Thirsty Traveler Worth Your Time?

Dark Tourist

Dark Tourist delves into the intriguing and often macabre world of dark tourism, as host David Farrier explores destinations with morbid, tragic, or controversial histories. The show offers an unflinching look at the darker side of travel, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and question their own fascination with the grotesque and macabre. Through immersive storytelling and candid conversations with locals and fellow tourists, Dark Tourist  examines the ethical implications of dark tourism and the complex emotions such experiences evoke. This thought-provoking series will leave viewers contemplating the limits of their curiosity and the true nature of the human experience.

Is Dark Tourist Worth Your Time?

The Amazing Race

As one of the quintessential travel shows, The Amazing Race  delivers an adrenaline-pumping blend of competition, adventure, and global exploration. The Emmy Award-winning series pits teams against each other in a race around the world, challenging them with physical, mental, and cultural obstacles. The show's breakneck pace and high-stakes challenges offer an exciting, albeit unconventional, look at the dizzying array of cultures, languages, and landscapes the world has to offer. The Amazing Race  ultimately celebrates the spirit of adventure and perseverance, inspiring viewers to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the thrill of the unknown.

Is The Amazing Race Worth Your Time?

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Travels to the Edge with Art Wolfe

Travels to the Edge with Art Wolfe transports viewers to some of the most remote and breathtaking locations on Earth, offering a rare glimpse into the stunning beauty and fragile ecosystems of our planet. Acclaimed photographer Art Wolfe's keen eye and passion for conservation make him an exceptional guide, as he captures the essence of each destination through his lens. The show masterfully intertwines adventure, exploration, and environmental awareness, encouraging viewers to appreciate the natural wonders that lie just beyond the beaten path. With its awe-inspiring images and thought-provoking messages, Travels to the Edge with Art Wolfe  is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of our world and the importance of protecting it.

Is Travels to the Edge wi... Worth Your Time?

Long Way Round

In Long Way Round , viewers are taken on an exhilarating and challenging motorcycle journey across continents, as actor Ewan McGregor and his best friend Charley Boorman embark on the adventure of a lifetime. The series intimately documents their trials and triumphs, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of friendship, determination, and the transformative power of travel. As the duo navigates diverse terrains and cultural encounters, the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences serve as reminders of the boundless possibilities for exploration and personal growth. Long Way Round  is essential viewing for those seeking a compelling narrative of adventure, camaraderie, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Is Long Way Round Worth Your Time?

Lonely Planet Six Degrees

Lonely Planet Six Degrees offers a fresh and engaging approach to travel, as hosts Asha Gill and Toby Amies immerse themselves in the local culture and connect with fascinating individuals at each destination. The show's underlying theme - that we are all connected through a mere six degrees of separation - highlights the shared human experiences that transcend geographical boundaries. Through captivating storytelling and insightful interactions, Lonely Planet Six Degrees  encourages viewers to approach travel with an open mind and a desire to forge meaningful connections. With its unique format and thought-provoking premise, this groundbreaking series is a must-watch for those looking to experience the world in a more personal and profound way.

Is Lonely Planet Six Degr... Worth Your Time?

Dhani Tackles the Globe

Dhani Tackles the Globe combines the worlds of sports, travel, and adventure, as former NFL linebacker Dhani Jones sets out to master various traditional sports around the world. The show offers a fresh and energetic take on global exploration, with Jones' athletic prowess and enthusiasm for new experiences making him an engaging host. Through his immersion in each region's unique sports culture, Jones fosters meaningful connections with local communities and explores the values, traditions, and history that shape these time-honored activities. Dhani Tackles the Globe  is an inspiring celebration of the universal language of sports and the untold stories that unite us all.

Is Dhani Tackles the Glob... Worth Your Time?

Booze Traveler

Booze Traveler offers viewers an intoxicating blend of travel, history, and culture as host Jack Maxwell embarks on a global quest to uncover the stories behind the world's most iconic drinks. With his affable demeanor and insatiable curiosity, Maxwell expertly showcases the inextricable link between alcoholic beverages and the cultures that produce them. The show skillfully balances immersive experiences, engaging storytelling, and fascinating historical insights, revealing the myriad ways in which alcohol has shaped human civilization throughout history. Booze Traveler  is a spirited journey, sure to delight viewers with its unique perspective on global libations and their storied pasts.

Is Booze Traveler Worth Your Time?

Michael Palin's Hemingway Adventure

Michael Palin's Hemingway Adventure follows the beloved British adventurer as he retraces the footsteps of iconic author Ernest Hemingway, exploring the places and experiences that shaped his life and work. Palin's wit, charm, and genuine interest in Hemingway's story make for a fascinating and enjoyable journey, as he delves into the writer's complex psyche and uncovers the locations that inspired some of his most famous literary works. The show elegantly combines travel, literature, and biography, offering viewers a unique look at the world through Hemingway's eyes. With its captivating storytelling and insightful discoveries, Michael Palin's Hemingway Adventure  is a literary pilgrimage that will inspire and enchant viewers in equal measure.

Is Michael Palin's Heming... Worth Your Time?

Expedition Unknown

Expedition Unknown takes audiences on a thrilling and informative journey through history, mystery, and adventure, with host Josh Gates uncovering the world's greatest legends and forgotten stories. Gates' charisma, humor, and expertise make him an ideal companion on this quest for knowledge, as he ventures off the beaten path to unearth fascinating tales and enduring mysteries. The show brilliantly merges history, archaeology, and travel, providing viewers with a unique and engrossing peek into the past while sparking an insatiable curiosity to learn more. Expedition Unknown  is a compelling, thought-provoking, and entertaining exploration of the unknown, proving that the world is still full of untold stories waiting to be discovered.

Is Expedition Unknown Worth Your Time?

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Travel Man: 48 Hours in...

Travel Man: 48 Hours in... offers a unique and entertaining approach to city breaks, as host Richard Ayoade is joined by a celebrity guest to explore exciting destinations around the world. The show's fast-paced format, dry humor, and quirky insights provide a fresh take on traditional travelogues, proving that meaningful experiences can be had in just 48 hours. Ayoade's keen eye for hidden gems and offbeat experiences encourages viewers to step outside the well-trodden tourist path and embrace the unexpected delights that each city has to offer. With its engaging blend of humor, adventure, and unconventional wisdom, Travel Man: 48 Hours in...  is essential viewing for those with limited time and boundless curiosity.

Is Travel Man: 48 Hours i... Worth Your Time?

Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted

In Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted , the world-renowned chef embarks on an exhilarating journey to uncover the globe's most exotic and undiscovered flavors. Ramsay's unparalleled passion for food and bold sense of adventure make him the perfect guide, as he braves remote locations, diverse cultures, and extreme conditions in pursuit of culinary excellence. The show masterfully combines exhilarating adventures, immersive storytelling, and captivating cultural insights, showcasing the transformative power of food as a bridge between people and cultures. With its thrilling escapades and tantalizing tastes, Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted  inspires viewers to broaden their culinary horizons and embrace the vast tapestry of global flavors that await them.

Is Gordon Ramsay: Unchart... Worth Your Time?

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The Getaway

The Getaway combines the thrill of travel with the allure of celebrity, as famous faces guide viewers on a tour of their favorite global destinations. Each episode features a different celebrity host, offering unique perspectives and experiences tailored to their personal tastes and interests. The show expertly balances cultural insights, local tips, and luxurious recommendations, providing viewers with a distinctive and aspirational look at the world's most desirable locales. With its glamorous spin on travel and insider access to the lives of the rich and famous, The Getaway  is a captivating journey that will leave viewers longing for their next escape.

Is The Getaway Worth Your Time?

Better Late Than Never

In Better Late Than Never , viewers join four iconic personalities - William Shatner, Henry Winkler, Terry Bradshaw, and George Foreman - as they embark on a whirlwind adventure across Asia. The show's unique blend of unscripted humor, genuine camaraderie, and cultural exploration offers a fresh and entertaining twist on the traditional travelogue. As the seasoned celebrities navigate their way through unfamiliar customs, languages, and experiences, they demonstrate that it's never too late to embrace the unknown and embark on new adventures. With its heartwarming friendships, comedic mishaps, and inspiring ethos, Better Late Than Never  proves that the spirit of discovery knows no age limit.

Is Better Late Than Never... Worth Your Time?

Journeys In India

Journeys in Africa transports viewers to the heart of this vast and diverse continent, showcasing its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Host Bill Ball explores Africa's most remote and fascinating places, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for the region with audiences. The show's captivating visuals, engaging storytelling, and immersive experiences offer an unparalleled glimpse into the beauty, complexity, and resilience of Africa's ecosystems and communities. Journeys in Africa  is a must-watch for nature enthusiasts, adventure-seekers, and anyone yearning to explore the breathtaking wonders of this extraordinary continent.

Is Journeys in Africa Worth Your Time?

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