10 British TV Shows You Really Should Watch

There are some British TV shows that have gained quite a bit of popularity lately, like Downton Abbey, but there are a slew of others that should definitely be checked out!

10. Vicar of Dibley

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The show revolves around a vicar that moves into the small town of Dibley, only to change the town and its inhabitants for the better. A fantastic comedy series, and honestly it's quite refreshing to see a unique take on women in the church, and particularly seeing a more curvy woman on the small screen!

9. Sherlock

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Both Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman are cast in "The Hobbit" trilogy, but the two got their big break on the set of this re-imagining of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic "Sherlock Holmes." Interspersed with humor and dry wit, this series has gained popularity throughout the world and is quite a staple among college students. Also, Benedict Cumberbatch is a bit of a hottie.

8. Spooks/IM-5

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This spy-thriller TV show is unexpectedly very good, and has had a long run on British television. Known for its frequently changing cast and dramatic cliffhangers, this spy show has catapulted the careers of many leading British actors. Spies are really cool, you won't be disappointed.

7. Little Britain

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This is a sketch comedy show but not for the fainthearted. With typical bawdy British humor, Little Britain weaves a delicate balance between humor and gross. Nevertheless, I and several million people across the world have grown to love this show that has created several characters that are now immortal in British pop culture.

6. Doctor Who

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A constantly rotating cast, but a fame and popularity that doesn't seem to fade, Doctor Who is quite possibly a groundbreaker in Sci-fi television. Kitschy, but nonetheless lovable, this show has be supremely popular among Americans for a while now so check it out if you haven't already!

5. Fawlty Towers

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You will pee your pants laughing, trust me. This show uses physical comedy, misunderstandings and curmudgeon to a whole new degree! Considered to be one of the finest British comedies, Fawlty Towers has only a few episodes but is nevertheless HILARIOUS. Also, the way the sign changes at the beginning of every series is ridiculous.

4. North & South

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This adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel got such a surge of popularity in England, not only because of its Pride and Prejudice reminiscent story, but also because of the unbelievable performance by leading man Richard Armitage. It consists of 4 episodes but is absolutely magnificent. Definitely don't miss out on North and South.

3. Blackadder

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Blackadder is Rowan Atkinson's gift to the world before Mr. Bean. The show chronicles the adventures of Edmund Blackadder through various stages of British history, each one punctuated with absolutely brilliant humor. Hugh Laurie makes frequent appearances, as does Stephen Fry. Considered a comedic classic.

2. Robin Hood

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This 2006-2009 series was extremely popular, shooting several of its stars into superstardom. It's well done though historically ambiguous. Nonetheless, this BBC show is extremely well written with the human condition being fully explored. You never know which character you like, since you might hate them in the next episode which is why this series is among the top best.

1. Coupling

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ONE OF THE BEST COMEDY SHOWS EVER. If you enjoy programmes like Friends or How I Met Your Mother, Coupling is right up your alley. This television show is wittily crafted, smartly written and brilliantly acted out. You can actually see your friends in each of the characters.

also.... anything with THIS GUY!

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Because let's face it, any show with the stunning Richard Armitage is worth watching.