The Best Historical Mystery Series
The best period detective series and historical mystery shows let you experience a different time period while also enjoying a good whodunnit. Whether they're a scripted drama or a mystery documentary, they offer intrigue, and often, some great costumes. If you’ve been looking for the best historical mysteries to add some excitement to your TV nights, this list of the period detective and mystery series of all time will help you figure out what needs to go into your queue.
From BBC detective dramas to docuseries that offer plenty of historical reenactment, many of the best mystery shows are set during specific time periods. Thanks to the popularity of detective novels from authors like Agatha Christie, there are several shows based on books, like Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and Agatha Christie's Poirot - and of course Sherlock Holmes. Other historical mystery shows dramatize famous mysteries such as Jack The Ripper while offering insight from historians. Other shows just know that history itself offers many mysteries and place their detectives in dashing times that offer historical drama and great costumes along with the crime-solving.
Which shows balance mystery and history the best? Vote up the best historical mystery and detective shows, then vote down the shows that don't solve the mystery of the best detective series set in a previous time period.
- 1David Suchet, Hugh Fraser, Philip Jackson
- Premiered: January 8, 1989
Step into the world of Hercule Poirot, a brilliant Belgian detective, as he solves intriguing crimes using his renowned skills of deduction. Each episode is filled with wit, charm, and unexpected twists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. It's no wonder this classic has become a staple for fans of historical mysteries.
- 2
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries
Essie Davis, Nathan Page, Hugo Johnstone-Burt- Premiered: February 24, 2012
Stylish and seductive, a female sleuth navigates the glamorous world of 1920s Melbourne, Australia. Armed with wit, charm, and a pearl-handled pistol, she tackles high-society crimes with a flair that's hard to resist. Filled with sumptuous costumes and intriguing cases, this series is a true feast for the senses.
- 3Kate Phillips, Danny Midwinter, Stuart Martin
- Premiered: March 31, 2020
A headstrong Victorian woman defies societal norms to take over her late father's private detective agency. Alongside a roguish police inspector, they tackle the most confounding cases of the era. This dynamic duo offers a fresh and lively approach to historical mystery-solving.
- 4
Sherlock Holmes
Jeremy Brett, Charles Gray, Edward Hardwicke- Premiered: April 24, 1984
Based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's legendary character, the famous detective uses unparalleled logic and intuition to solve the most perplexing crimes in Victorian London. Accompanied by his loyal friend Dr. Watson, Holmes captivates audiences with his uncanny abilities and unique personality. A timeless favorite that stands the test of time.
- 5Yannick Bisson, Helene Joy, Jonny Harris
- Premiered: January 24, 2008
As a pioneer of cutting-edge forensic techniques in late 19th-century Toronto, Detective William Murdoch investigates baffling crimes and enigmatic events. With the help of an eccentric coroner and a strong-willed female constable, their groundbreaking discoveries have a lasting impact on generations to come. This series offers a delightful blend of science, mystery, and historical drama.
- 6Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, Dakota Fanning
- Premiered: January 21, 2018
Set in the dark underbelly of New York City at the turn of the 20th century, this gripping series follows a team of unconventional crime-solvers as they unravel the twisted mind of a serial killer. Blending psychological intrigue with lavish period detail, it delves deep into the darker side of human nature. A chilling and spellbinding journey awaits those who dare to join.
