This week's Sunday Post is a little different. Walking recently, I wondered what British TV shows have been on the longest, and would completely fill my free time if I chose to watch them. After a lot of research, I've put together a massive list for Friends of Anglotopia of British TV shows with a lot of episodes. Watching these shows will immerse you in British culture, and transport you to Britain for hours at a time - and teach you a thing or two about British light entertainment. I hope you like the article! Let us know your favorite shows in the comments!

The membership leaderboard is now at 173 members. We are getting so close to 200 members. I hope we can do it in the next few weeks. Once we hit 200, we can remove the Google Ads from Anglotopia, and reveal our next milestone membership goals/rewards. Stay tuned!

So, let’s say, hypothetically, you wanted to spend all your free time for the next few years getting completely lost in British TV. What could you watch to fill all your free time? This thought experiment came to me during my daily walk.

Well, you can start with BritBox and AcornTV. Just subscribe to the services, start at the beginning of their catalogs, and you’ll have a few years of constant British TV entertainment right there. They’re always adding new things, and rotating out classic shows.

But what if you wanted to go deeper? On a recent walk, I wondered what British TV shows are the longest-running - that have so many episodes, you could get completely immersed in them?

Not only do you have the hours of time filled with watching the shows, but many of these shows have thriving fandoms where you can get lost down various rabbit holes - many even have entire books written about them. These shows represent the best that British light entertainment has to offer. Each is a window into British culture and history. I’ve long said that the best way to immerse yourself in British culture, other than living there, is to watch its television. You will learn so much! Even from the ‘bad’ TV!

So, after much research, here’s a rundown of the longest-running British TV shows to fill all your free time. Now, some of these shows, like soap operas and science shows, don’t even have all of their back catalogs available to stream, or even to watch. Hunting down lost episodes can become a hobby in itself! So those suggestions are a bit cheeky, but the other suggestions are very real and most of these shows are easy to find on the various streaming services at any given time.

If you want to go deeper, there are ways to get shows that we cannot tell you about or advocate for, for legal reasons. But they are out there if you’re curious enough.

Coronation Street - 11,480 episodes (not that you can watch them all)

The world's longest-running television soap opera, affectionately known as "Corrie." Set in the fictional working-class area of Weatherfield in Manchester, it chronicles the daily lives, dramas, and relationships of its residents. Notable for its mix of dramatic storylines and Northern humor, realistic portrayal of working-class life, and creating iconic characters like Ken Barlow (played by William Roache, who holds the world record for longest-serving actor in a TV series). The show has tackled numerous social issues over its run while maintaining its core focus on community life centered around the Rovers Return pub.

Horizon - Approximately 1250 episodes

BBC's flagship science documentary series, known for making complex scientific concepts accessible to general audiences. Each episode typically focuses on a specific scientific topic, ranging from physics and astronomy to medicine and psychology. The series has featured interviews with many notable scientists including Stephen Hawking and Richard Feynman, and has covered groundbreaking discoveries and developments as they happened. Known for its high production values and ability to explain complex scientific concepts through clear visualization and expert commentary. Pro-tip - Many new Horizon documentaries are aired in the USA as Nova documentaries, which you can access to the back catalog to on PBS Passport (another great source of British TV!).

Emmerdale - 10,193 episodes

Originally titled "Emmerdale Farm," this soap opera began as a daytime drama about Yorkshire farming life but evolved into a more dynamic series featuring the entire village community. Set in the fictional village of Emmerdale in the Yorkshire Dales, it's known for combining traditional rural storylines with more dramatic plots, including memorable disasters like the 1993 plane crash episode. The show has successfully modernized while maintaining its distinctive Yorkshire character and has become one of Britain's most popular continuing dramas, competing with Coronation Street and EastEnders in ratings and awards.

Arena - 600 Episodes

The BBC's prestigious arts documentary series has been setting the standard for cultural programming since 1975. Known for its innovative filmmaking approaches, Arena has profiled everyone from Bob Dylan to Francis Bacon, and covered movements from punk rock to postmodernism. The series is distinguished by its creative, often unconventional approach to documentary-making - for example, the Beatles episode was told entirely through the eyes of their manager, Brian Epstein. Notable episodes include the BAFTA-winning "Amy Winehouse: The Day She Came to Dingle" and "The Orson Welles Story." The series has won multiple awards and is considered one of the most important archives of arts and cultural documentation in broadcasting history.

The South Bank Show - 805 Episodes

Launched in 1978 with Melvyn Bragg (now a Lord) as presenter, this landmark arts series revolutionized cultural television by treating popular culture with the same seriousness as high art. The show has featured comprehensive profiles of artists ranging from Paul McCartney to Harold Pinter, often gaining unprecedented access to its subjects. Known for its iconic opening titles featuring William Hogarth's self-portrait morphing into a neon sign, the series moved from ITV to Sky Arts in 2012. Bragg's intelligent, accessible interviewing style has helped make complex cultural figures and movements comprehensible to general audiences. Notable episodes include profiles of Francis Bacon, David Hockney, and a young Daniel Day-Lewis. If you find this show enjoyable, then you’ll want to check out the back catalog of In Our Time, also hosted by Bragg, that explores various intellectual topics (over 1,000 episodes!).

Antiques Roadshow (the Original UK Version) - 866 Episodes

Since 1979, this beloved Sunday evening staple has combined history, human interest, and the thrill of discovery. Each episode visits a different historic location where experts evaluate items brought by local residents. The show is famous for its dramatic moments of revelation when valuable items are discovered - such as a Fabergé flower valued at over £1 million in 2017. The format has remained largely unchanged: experts discuss items' historical significance and value while sharing stories of their origins. Host Fiona Bruce continues the tradition started by Michael Aspel and Hugh Scully, maintaining the show's blend of expertise and accessibility. The series has spawned international versions and remains one of BBC's most popular programs.

Doctor Who - 884 Episodes (97 missing)

Since its debut in 1963, this iconic science fiction series has captivated audiences with its unique blend of adventure, drama, and distinctly British eccentricity. The concept of regeneration (introduced when William Hartnell left the role) has allowed the show to continually reinvent itself while maintaining continuity. The series follows "The Doctor," a Time Lord who travels through space and time in the TARDIS (disguised as a police box), usually accompanied by human companions. Notable for its innovative use of limited budgets in early years, creating memorable monsters like the Daleks and Cybermen. The show ran from 1963-1989, returned for a TV movie in 1996, and was successfully revived in 2005. Each Doctor has brought their own interpretation to the role, from Tom Baker's eccentric scarf-wearing era to David Tennant's charismatic portrayal. The show has recently made history with Ncuti Gatwa as the first Black Doctor in the main series.

Eastenders - 7,054 Episodes

Launched in 1985 to compete with Coronation Street, this gritty soap opera set in the fictional London borough of Walford quickly established its own identity with harder-hitting storylines and a more contemporary urban setting. The show centers around the diverse community living around Albert Square, particularly in the Queen Vic pub. Famous for its cliffhanger endings and "doof doof" drums, the show has tackled groundbreaking social issues including HIV/AIDS, domestic violence, mental health, and racial discrimination. Iconic characters like Dirty Den, Peggy Mitchell, and Dot Cotton have become part of British popular culture. Notable storylines include "Who Shot Phil?", the Christmas 2017 revelations, and Den's return from the dead. The show has consistently pushed boundaries in British television, though recent years have seen ratings challenges as viewing habits change.

Hollyoaks - 6460 Episodes

Debuting in 1995 as a youth-oriented soap opera, Hollyoaks distinguished itself with a focus on younger characters and more sensational storylines. Set in the fictional Chester suburb of Hollyoaks, the show was groundbreaking in its approach to issues affecting young people, including eating disorders, self-harm, and sexual assault. The show is known for its ambitious storylines, including late-night spin-offs that tackle darker themes. Notable for its high production values and cinematic style unusual in British soaps, it also serves as a launching pad for young acting talent. The show has won praise for its handling of complex issues like male rape and far-right radicalization, while maintaining lighter storylines and romantic plots that appeal to its core youth demographic.

Silent Witness - 248 Episodes

Premiering in 1996, this forensic crime drama initially followed pathologist Sam Ryan (Amanda Burton) before evolving into an ensemble show centered around the Lyell Centre. The series stands out for its detailed, often graphic portrayal of forensic procedures and post-mortem examinations. Storylines frequently explore complex social issues alongside murder investigations, dealing with topics like human trafficking, institutional corruption, and medical ethics. Current leads Emilia Fox and David Caves head a team using cutting-edge forensic techniques to solve crimes. The show is known for its two-part episode format, allowing for deeper exploration of cases, and its unflinching approach to showing the reality of violent crime's aftermath. It has influenced public understanding of forensic science and inspired similar programs worldwide.

Midsomer Murders - 140 Episodes

Since 1997, this quintessentially English detective series has been solving murders in the fictional county of Midsomer. Initially starring John Nettles as DCI Tom Barnaby, now led by Neil Dudgeon as his cousin John Barnaby, the show is famous for its picturesque villages hiding dark secrets and its often bizarre murder methods. The series has developed a cult following for its formula: multiple murders in seemingly idyllic settings, eccentric suspects, and complex plots often involving local traditions or organizations. Notable for its high body count (averaging 2.6 murders per episode) and inventive deaths (including death by cheese, wine bottle, and vintage car), the show balances dark themes with subtle humor. International success has made it one of Britain's most successful TV exports.

Red Dwarf - 74 Episodes

This cult sci-fi comedy series, launched in 1988, follows the adventures of Dave Lister, the last human alive, aboard the mining ship Red Dwarf with a hologram of his dead bunkmate Rimmer, a humanoid creature evolved from his cat, and the ship's senile computer. The show combines clever science fiction concepts with character-based comedy and social commentary. Notable for its innovative special effects (given its budget), complex time travel plots, and exploration of philosophical concepts through comedy. The series has moved between BBC Two, Dave, and streaming platforms, maintaining a dedicated following through various iterations. Famous episodes include "Back to Reality," "Gunmen of the Apocalypse," and "Better Than Life." The show has spawned books, games, and a passionate fan community.

Grand Designs - 159 Episodes

Launched in 1999 with architect Kevin McCloud as host, this influential property show follows ambitious self-build projects from concept to completion. Unlike typical home renovation shows, Grand Designs focuses on extraordinary, often challenging architectural projects, from underground houses to converted water towers. McCloud's architectural expertise and eloquent commentary are hallmarks of the show, as are his skepticism toward ambitious deadlines and budgets. The program is known for its dramatic narrative arcs, following projects that frequently go over budget and schedule, sometimes leading to relationship strain or financial difficulties. Famous episodes include the shipping container house, the underground house that nearly bankrupted its owners, and the infamous Chesil Cliff House. The show has spawned international versions and significantly influenced British architectural ambitions. This is one of my personal favorite British documentary shows of all time, and I count the days to new episodes every autumn.

Doctors - 4,552 Episodes

This unique daytime soap opera, running since 2000, follows the staff and patients at the fictional Mill Health Centre in Birmingham. Unlike other medical dramas, Doctors combines ongoing character arcs with self-contained stories focusing on patients' medical and personal issues. The show is notable for tackling complex social issues and medical ethics while maintaining a lighter touch than evening dramas. It serves as a training ground for new acting and directing talent, with many famous faces having early roles in the series. The show has pioneered innovative storytelling techniques unusual in daytime TV, including experimental episodes and complex narrative structures. Despite its daytime slot, it has tackled controversial topics including addiction, abuse, and mental health.

Escape to the Country - 1,200 Episodes

Running since 2002, this property show helps city dwellers find their dream homes in rural Britain. Each episode follows a different pair of house hunters with a specific budget and region in mind. The show is distinguished by its 'mystery house' segment, where buyers are shown a property that challenges their preconceptions. Beyond property hunting, the series serves as a showcase for British rural life, with segments exploring local crafts, industries, and traditions. Presenters include Alistair Appleton, Jules Hudson, and Nicki Chapman, each bringing their own knowledge of rural property markets. The show has significantly influenced rural property markets and urban-to-rural migration patterns in the UK. There’s much to see of the English countryside - and to learn but this show can be very frustrating - because you wish you were doing it and you get angry at the people for not choosing the right house.

QI - 308 Episodes

Launched in 2003 with Stephen Fry as host (now helmed by Sandi Toksvig), this intelligent comedy panel show revolutionized the format by focusing on fascinating facts and debunking common misconceptions. Each series takes on a different letter of the alphabet, with episode themes and questions relating to that letter. The show is famous for its klaxon, which sounds when contestants give commonly held but incorrect answers. Regular panelist Alan Davies serves as a foil for the host, often giving obvious wrong answers that reflect common misconceptions. The show's research team, known as the "QI Elves," has spawned books, podcasts, and social media accounts. Notable for combining genuine learning with comedy, the show has influenced public understanding of various topics while maintaining entertainment value.

Live at the Apollo - 123 Episodes

Beginning in 2004 as "Jack Dee Live at the Apollo," this stand-up comedy showcase has become a cornerstone of British comedy television. Filmed at London's historic Hammersmith Apollo theatre, each episode features a well-known comedian hosting and performing, followed by sets from other comedians. The show has been crucial in launching and advancing the careers of numerous British comedians, providing a prestigious platform for stand-up comedy on television. Notable for maintaining the atmosphere of a live comedy show while creating compelling television, the series has featured virtually every major British comedian of the past two decades. The format allows for both established stars and rising talent to reach a mainstream audience.

Not Going Out - 100 Episodes

Created by and starring Lee Mack, this traditional studio sitcom has been running since 2006, making it one of BBC's longest-running current sitcoms. The show began following Lee, a layabout living with his landlady Kate (with whom he was in love), but has evolved over the years to follow Lee's marriage to Lucy (Sally Bretton) and their family life. Notable for its rapid-fire joke delivery, clever wordplay, and maintaining the traditional sitcom format in an era of more experimental comedy. The show has successfully navigated major cast changes and format shifts while maintaining its core appeal. Each episode typically revolves around Lee's attempts to solve a problem, which inevitably spiral into increasingly complicated situations.

Shaun the Sheep - Almost 200 Episodes

Created by Aardman Animations (of Wallace & Gromit fame), this stop-motion animated series debuted in 2007. Following the adventures of Shaun, a clever sheep leading his flock in various schemes on Mossy Bottom Farm, the show is remarkable for telling complex stories without any dialogue. Instead, it relies on visual comedy, sound effects, and animal noises. Each seven-minute episode demonstrates incredible attention to detail in both animation and storytelling. The series has spawned feature films, video games, and merchandise, becoming a global phenomenon despite (or perhaps because of) its distinctly British humor. Notable for its universal appeal across age groups and cultures, clever pop culture references, and ability to tackle surprisingly sophisticated themes through simple stories.

The Great British Bake Off - 144 Episodes

Premiering in 2010 on BBC (moving to Channel 4 in 2017), this cooking competition show has become a cultural phenomenon. Set in a tent in the British countryside, amateur bakers compete in three challenges per episode: the Signature, Technical, and Showstopper. The show's success lies in its gentle, supportive atmosphere, contrasting with more aggressive reality competitions. Originally hosted by Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins with judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood, it now features Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond hosting alongside Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith judging. Notable for popularizing home baking, creating numerous catchphrases ("soggy bottom"), and spawning international versions. The show has been praised for its diverse representation and celebration of British multiculturalism through baking.

Death in Paradise - 108 Episodes

Launched in 2011, this fish-out-of-water detective series follows a succession of British detectives solving murders on the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie. Beginning with Ben Miller's Richard Poole, followed by Kris Marshall's Humphrey Goodman, Ardal O'Hanlon's Jack Mooney, and Ralf Little's Neville Parker, each detective brings their own quirks to the role. The show follows a specific formula: a seemingly impossible murder, multiple suspects, red herrings, and a dramatic gathering of suspects for the solution reveal. Notable for combining beautiful Caribbean locations with classic British detective story elements, and successfully managing multiple lead actor changes while maintaining popularity. Has spawned spin-off series and maintains high ratings despite its long run.

Morse, Lewis & Endeavour - 102 Episodes

This interconnected series of detective dramas set in Oxford represents one of British television's most successful police franchises. Inspector Morse (1987-2000) starred John Thaw as the intellectual, opera-loving, crossword-solving detective, establishing a new template for British crime drama with its complex plots and cultural references. Lewis (2006-2015) followed Morse's former sergeant Robert Lewis (Kevin Whately) as the main detective, partnered with the intellectual James Hathaway (Laurence Fox). Endeavour (2012-2023) serves as a prequel, with Shaun Evans portraying the young Morse in the 1960s and 70s. All three series maintain strong connections to Oxford's academic and cultural environment, with architecture and classical music playing significant roles. Notable for maintaining high quality across all three series and creating a rich, interconnected universe.

Father Brown - 123 Episodes

Based on G.K. Chesterton's stories, this cozy crime drama stars Mark Williams as a crime-solving Catholic priest in the 1950s Cotswolds. Running since 2013, the show combines period charm with clever mysteries. Father Brown solves crimes through his understanding of human nature and sin, often showing mercy to criminals while ensuring justice is served. The series is notable for its gentle approach to crime-solving, beautiful period settings, and strong supporting cast of village characters. Unlike grittier crime dramas, Father Brown focuses on moral dilemmas and redemption rather than violence. The show has spawned international adaptations and maintains strong ratings through its combination of period charm and satisfying mysteries.

Top Gear/Grand Tour - 175 Episodes (Plus the Grand Tour)

Top Gear began in 1977 as a conventional car review show, but was revolutionized in 2002 by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May into an entertainment phenomenon combining car reviews with comedy and elaborate challenges. After Clarkson's departure in 2015, the trio moved to Amazon Prime to create The Grand Tour, while Top Gear continued with various new presenters. Both shows are known for their high production values, international adventures, and mix of serious car journalism with entertainment. Notable episodes include the North Pole special, building amphibious cars, and racing across continents. The original trio's chemistry and approach to automotive entertainment influenced motoring shows worldwide.

Last of the Summer Wine - 295 Episodes

Britain's longest-running sitcom follows the misadventures of a trio of elderly friends in rural Yorkshire. Known for its gentle humor, slapstick comedy, and the iconic character Compo. The show captures the charm of Yorkshire life and the eternal youth of its aging protagonists.

Taggart - 109 Episodes

Gritty Scottish police procedural set in Glasgow, famous for its catchphrase "There's been a murder." Started with Mark McManus as DCI Jim Taggart, continuing after his death with other leads. Notable for its dark tone and authentic portrayal of Glasgow police work.

The Bill - 2,425 Episodes

Groundbreaking police procedural following the officers of Sun Hill Police Station in London. Initially focused on realistic day-to-day policing before evolving into more dramatic storylines. Known for launching many British actors' careers and its detailed portrayal of police work.

Poirot - 70 Episodes

David Suchet's definitive portrayal of Agatha Christie's Belgian detective Hercule Poirot. Each episode meticulously recreates the Art Deco period and follows Poirot's "little grey cells" as he solves complex murders with his distinctive methodical style.

Only Fools & Horses - 64 Episodes

Beloved sitcom following the wheeler-dealer Trotter brothers, Del Boy and Rodney, in Peckham, London. Known for Del's get-rich-quick schemes, mangled French, and some of British TV's most watched episodes. A cultural phenomenon that produced many quotable catchphrases.

Foyle’s War - 28 Feature Length Episodes

Michael Kitchen stars as DCS Christopher Foyle, solving crimes on the home front during and after WWII. Notable for its historical accuracy and exploration of moral dilemmas during wartime. Each feature-length episode weaves real historical events into its mysteries.

All Creatures Great & Small OG - 90 Episodes

Based on James Herriot's books about his life as a Yorkshire vet in the 1930s-40s. Christopher Timothy stars as Herriot, with Robert Hardy as his eccentric boss Siegfried Farnon. Beloved for its warm portrayal of rural veterinary life.

All Creatures Great and Small NG - 35 Episodes

A successful remake starring Nicholas Ralph as James Herriot, maintaining the charm of the original while adding modern production values. Faithfully recreates the 1930s Yorkshire Dales setting and the beloved characters for a new audience.

New Tricks - 107 Episodes

A popular police procedural about a team of retired detectives who work on unsolved cold cases. The show follows the UCOS (Unsolved Crime and Open Case Squad) as they use their old-school methods and experience to crack cases that defeated their younger colleagues.

Spooks - 86 Episodes

Known as "MI-5" in some countries, this tense drama follows the work of MI5 officers defending British national security. Known for its high stakes, complex plots, and willingness to unexpectedly eliminate major characters.

Peep Show - 54 Episodes

An innovative sitcom featuring point-of-view camera work and internal monologues from its two main characters, Mark and Jeremy, as they navigate life, work, and relationships in South London. Notable for its unique filming style and brutally honest comedy.

Every David Attenborough Narrated Nature Documentary Series - 158 Episodes (approximately)

For over four decades, Sir David Attenborough has guided viewers through the wonders of the natural world in a series of groundbreaking documentaries. Beginning with 1979's "Life on Earth," which revolutionized wildlife filmmaking, his work has evolved alongside technology to reveal ever more intimate views of nature. From the comprehensive scope of "The Living Planet" and "The Trials of Life," through specialized series focusing on specific aspects of nature like "The Private Life of Plants" and "The Life of Birds," to the stunning high-definition spectacles of "Planet Earth" and "Blue Planet," each series has pushed the boundaries of nature documentary making. His later works, including "Dynasties," "Our Planet," and "Green Planet," have increasingly incorporated urgent messages about conservation and climate change while maintaining the sense of wonder that characterizes his storytelling. Through innovations in filming techniques, from the first use of time-lapse photography in "The Private Life of Plants" to the night-vision sequences in "Planet Earth II" and the cutting-edge computer graphics in "Prehistoric Planet," these documentaries have consistently found new ways to reveal the complexity and beauty of life on Earth. Together, they represent not just a comprehensive survey of Earth's biodiversity, but a chronicle of how our understanding and appreciation of the natural world has evolved over time.

Great British Railways Journeys

Great British Railway Journeys is a beloved BBC documentary series hosted by Michael Portillo, who travels across the United Kingdom's rail network using George Bradshaw's Victorian railway guidebook. Since its debut in 2010, Portillo explores the rich history and transformation of Britain's railways and the communities they serve, while dressed in his signature bright blazers. Each journey follows historical rail routes, investigating how the railways shaped British society, industry, and culture from Victorian times to the present. The show has been remarkably successful, spawning several spin-off series including Great Continental Railway Journeys (exploring Europe), Great American Railroad Journeys, Great Canadian Railway Journeys, Great Australian Railway Journeys, Great Asian Railway Journeys, and Great Alaskan Railroad Journeys. As of 2024, the combined series have produced over 400 episodes: the main British series has aired 14 series with over 200 episodes, while Continental has 6 series (40 episodes), American has 3 series (20 episodes), Canadian has 1 series (10 episodes), Australian has 1 series (6 episodes), Asian has 1 series (15 episodes), and Alaskan has 1 series (6 episodes), making it one of the most extensive and enduring travel documentary series on British television.

Bonus Ideas

James Bond Films - 25 Films

The iconic British spy film series following Agent 007, spanning multiple actors in the lead role including Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig. Each film features espionage, action, and sophisticated gadgets.

Carry-on Films - 31 Films

A series of British comedy films characterized by saucy humor, double entendres, and recurring cast members including Kenneth Williams and Barbara Windsor. The films parodied various genres and aspects of British life, from historical periods to public services.

What am I currently watching to fill my telly hours as I've seen many of the above shows already? I usually have several shows going at any given time - right now here is what is in my Plex server queue: Goodnight Sweetheart, Auschwitz: The Nazis & The Final Solution, The Darling Buds of May, Connections with James Burke, Attenborough's Life on Earth, One Day, Live at the Apollo, Grantchester, Great Coastal Railway Journeys, Peep Show, and To the Manor Born.