9+ Binge-Worthy Shows on Acorn TV

Looking for a new show to watch? Check out my list of the best shows on Acorn TV, and you'll find something new to love in no time!

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Looking for a show to stream on Acorn TV?

I simply can't get enough of everything and anything British, including books, TV, and movies. And if you've talked to me in the last three months, you'll also know that I have become somewhat of an Acorn TV addict. So, I figured, why not share all this accumulated knowledge, with my list of the best shows on Acorn TV! 
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If you're a Britbox subscriber, check out my list of the Best Shows on Britbox.

Best Shows on Acorn TV

Detectorists

An amazing find, no pun intended, Detectorists stars British Office star Mackenzie Crook and the ubiquitous Toby Jones (who you may recognize as the voice of Dobby from the Harry Potter films) as a pair of metal detectorists (not metal detectors - that's the device, I now know). It's a gentle comedy, poking fun at the hobby, but mostly exploring the relationship between the two friends.

I've been calling it "Peep Show for old nerds."


Like me.

Midsomer Murders

I hardly need to wax poetic about Midsomer Murders, as I believe this is the third of my "to watch" lists on which it's featured. Detailing the quirky (and frequent) murders throughout the fictional English country of Midsomer, it's a classic! But, of course there's a reason for that! And if you love British detective series, check out my full list of other excellent TV shows for Midsomer fans!

Dalgleish

An Acorn original, Dalgleish is based on the book series by P.D. James. Adam Dalgleish is a grieving detective by day, poet by night, who solves mysteries throughout 1970's England with a mix of a stern demeanor and a compassionate understanding of the human condition. Expect cameos from all of the usual cozy murder mystery suspects, including Stephen Dillane and Amanda Root.

A Place to Call Home

We're off to Australia for A Place to Call Home. A touching tale of a family and their small town in post-war Australia, it's a bit like Downton Abbey, but a bit more exciting and fast-paced. Told with a mix of flashback, memory, and a touch of quaint, it's strangely addictive.

Foyle's War

People have been telling me to watch Foyle's War for years, and now that we have Acorn TV, I finally got around to it! Written by Midsomer writer Anthony Horowitz, Foyle's War is the story of DCSI Foyle, and the town of Hastings, during WWII, and a bit into the Cold War. The various priorities of the war pull at the edges of justice, as Foyle tries to navigate national, international, and small town politics, all within gorgeously staged sets.

If you find yourself liking Anthony Horowitz, check out my list of cozy English murder mysteries available as audiobooks, for more of his work!

Agatha Raisin

I recently saw Agatha Raisin described as a combination of Midsomer and Bridget Jones, and I'm not sure how I can top that description. Agatha Raisin saved her pennies while working PR in London, to retire early and buy a home in the Cotswolds. As you may have anticipated, the move isn't exactly what she expected, as the town's residents just can't seem to stop murdering each other.

Perhaps the opposite of Foyle's War, as far as cozy mysteries, it stars Ashley Jensen from Extras, as the undeniably charming Agatha Raisin.

If you end up liking Agatha Raisin, check out my full list of British Detective Series with a Female Lead.

Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries

Another Australian recommendation, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries follows the titular character's crime solving exploits, in full flapper fashion. Dare I call it Agatha Raisin meets Downton Abbey? Too many allusions? It's a fun, clever romp.

Deadwater Fell

How good is David Tennant?

The best, I'd argue.

​ Deadwater Fell is certainly not light - you'll want to bring some vino and maybe tissues, but it's well-done. It's similar to Shetland or Tennant's other murder mystery, Broadchurch, and similarly dark, telling the story of a local family's death.

One word of warning - don't Google it!! In the FAQ on Google are massive spoilers - always a drawback of watching shows after they've aired!

Line of Duty

I'd argue that Line of Duty, which ended in 2021, deserves a moniker of "British detective staple program." Following a group of 'coppers' investigating their own, Line of Duty kept fans tuning in season after season for more than inter-departmental politics. Adrian Dunbar's Superintendent Hasting's unwavering moral compass (and quippy jabs), combined with the investigational acumen and interpersonal dynamics of DS Arnott and DS Fleming will keep you hooked.

Murdoch Mysteries

Murdoch Mysteries is to Canada what Midsomer is to the UK - a good, steady, and long-running, whodunnit! Murdoch takes place in Toronto, following Detective William Murdoch and his coroner, Julia, through their professional and personal trials and tribulations!

The turn-of-the century costumes (and politics) bring an extra touch of ambiance. Keep an eye out for special cameos, including from the (real, former) Canadian Prime Minister.

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope I've given you some food for thought as you look for the next show to binge on Acorn TV. If you haven't already,  be sure to grab your free trial of Acorn TV today.

And while you're here, I hope you'll consider subscribing to my newsletter and exploring the many, many free resources I've created over the years for Americans planning trips "across the pond."

​No paywalls - just free information compiled by a helpful lawyer/mom who wants Americans to feel happy, comfortable, and confident exploring Europe.

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