The Best British Sitcoms Of The '70s

A brilliantly crafted farce, Fawlty Towers stars the incomparable John Cleese as Basil Fawlty, the perpetually flustered and hapless hotel manager. With only twelve episodes in its two-series run, this sitcom is a masterclass in comedic timing and features strong performances from all cast members, including Prunella Scales as Sybil Fawlty and Andrew Sachs as the bumbling waiter Manuel. Today, it remains a timeless classic and one of the most beloved British comedies.

This gritty comedy-drama centres on father-and-son rag-and-bone men Albert (Wilfrid Brambell) and Harold Steptoe (Harry H. Corbett), whose bitter relationship drives the show's dark humour. The cleverly written dynamic between the characters often results in hilarious misunderstandings, allowing both actors to shine with emotional depth. By challenging traditional sitcom tropes, Steptoe and Son paved the way for future British comedies.

Spanning nine series and earning numerous accolades, Dad's Army is a gem amongst British sitcoms that follows Captain Mainwaring (Arthur Lowe), Sergeant Wilson (John Le Mesurier), and their motley crew of Home Guard soldiers during World War II. Combining slapstick comedy with witty dialogue, this enduring show captures both national pride and government incompetence at their finest. It continues to captivate audiences with its perfect blend of nostalgia and good-natured humour.

Set within the confines of HM Slade Prison, Porridge is led by Ronnie Barker's iconic portrayal of inmate Norman Stanley Fletcher. This BAFTA-winning series balances humour with heartwarming moments while addressing prison life's harsh realities. With unforgettable supporting characters like Lennie Godber (Richard Beckinsale) adding to its authenticity, Porridge remains a poignant yet entertaining snapshot of 1970s Britain.

An ensemble sitcom set in a department store, Are You Being Served? features an unforgettable cast of eccentric characters led by the charmingly snobbish Mrs Slocombe (Mollie Sugden) and her colourful wigs. From innuendos to hilarious customer interactions, this long-running series showcases British humour at its finest. Its enduring popularity has even led to a recent revival and several stage adaptations.

This socially relevant sitcom follows Tom (Richard Briers) and Barbara Good (Felicity Kendal), a suburban couple who decide to live self-sufficiently. Exploring themes of environmentalism and counter-culture, The Good Life is both entertaining and thought-provoking, thanks in part to the excellent chemistry between its leads. It remains popular today for its blend of comedy, warmth, and social commentary.