Top 10 British Comedies to Binge Watch
For this list, we're looking at those British comedies that will keep you entertained for hours and that you won't be able to tear yourself away from, from the pilot right to the closing credits on the final episode.
#10: “Not Going Out” (2006-)
Not quite the Ross and Rachel of love stories but it’s the ‘will they, won’t they’ arc that holds this series together. Lee is an unambitious, lazy Northerner who finds himself living with his best mate Tim’s sister, after his previous flatmate, and Tim’s ex-girlfriend, Kate moves back to the States. Lucy finds Lee’s constant schemes and immature actions annoying but deep down she knows that life is far more interesting with him around. Spoiler alert: Lee and Lucy do eventually admit their feelings for one another but married life doesn’t seem any more settled for this pair.
#9: “Fresh Meat” (2011-16)
After missing out on a place in halls due to late applications, six mismatched students wind up living together in a house off campus. And whether you’re bogged down with work or just finished the exam week from hell, this show is perfect to help you unwind with its relatable stories, witty humour and plenty of moments you’ll recognise from your own uni days. The writers based the series on their own experiences as freshers in Manchester so they certainly get the highs, as well as the lows, of student life.
#8: "Friday Night Dinner" (2011-)
Every week the Goodman family gets together for the traditional Jewish Friday Night Dinner, but with things always getting in the way, it’s a wonder this family ever eats a hot meal. Not that the family doesn’t have their own dramas cropping up, but it’s usually awkward neighbour, Jim, who shows up making everyone uncomfortable . . . but making us laugh out loud. It’s got the comedy stylings of ‘The Inbetweeners’ with a splash of ‘Green Wing’ for good measure. Once you’ve visited the Goodmans, you certainly won’t want to wait until next Friday to go back again.
#7: “Him & Her” (2010-13)
This comedy isn’t really about anything, which is a real testament to the characters, as we keep coming back for more. Becky and Steve are a twenty-something year old couple who would much rather a day in bed doing... well, anything else really. They seem pretty content with their friends, family and neighbours constantly barging in and dragging the outside world in with them. With the exception of the final series, we barely see anything beyond the flat, which proves what a strong overall performance this show offers the audience.
#6: “Blackadder” (1983-89)
This pseudo-historical sitcom, which takes us time traveling through the lives of the Blackadder family, is hilarious. Each series follows a Blackadder descendant through a different period of time as he climbs the class ladder, becoming more ruthless and cynical as he does. Blackadder is often in the presence of the elite, usually played by British comedy royalty; and in every regeneration, he’s reunited with sidekick Baldrick, and his less than cunning plans. The show is sheer genius as it puts a new spin on pivotal moments in British history, and will forever be a classic.
#5: “Outnumbered” (2007-14)
This one is especially fast-paced thanks to the unpredictability of improvisation... from children. Rather than give the kids lines, they’re given free rein, and it’s up to the adults and the audience to keep up. The situations are pretty ordinary but this family dynamic is too engaging to peel your eyes away for even a moment. This family has the extraordinary ability to constantly surprise us with their quick wit and wild imaginations and it’s impossible to hit that pause button, as you just can’t wait to see what might happen next.
#4: “Only Fools and Horses” (1981-2003)
Not only is this show highly binge worthy, but it was voted number one on the top 50 TV shows Brits watch on repeat. Binge watch status: confirmed. Each episode shows Del Boy and Rodney playing out yet another get rich quick scheme, usually involving some illegal products and under the table selling. What drives this show is the unstoppable brotherly bond that stays strong, even when yet another risky plot crashes and burns. While each episode can stand alone, it’s impossible to tune out when you know just what’s in store.
#3: “The Office” (2001-03)
It’s one of the best mockumentaries of the modern, or any, British era. It’s a fairly simple concept but executed with brilliant writing and unforgettable characters; and it won’t take long until you find yourself addicted. You could probably identify some of these characters from your own workplace, but much of the humour comes from boss David Brent, who is desperate for everyone to like him, leading to some rather awkward moments and some very… unique dancing. It’s annoying, uncomfortable and infuriating at times, but somehow you just can’t look away.
#2: “Gavin & Stacey” (2007-10)
Bridging the gap between Billericay and Barry Island, this sitcom charts the sometimes-rocky road of romance for its title characters, Gavin Shipman and Stacey West. But, there’s a lot more to it than just one couple. Written by James Corden and Ruth Jones, in many ways it’s their characters that audiences care most about, Smithy and Nessa. And whether it’s an awkward trip to the beach, or an even more awkward date with a KFC bargain bucket, this show’s stacked with classic scenes. With three series and a standout Christmas special to enjoy, you could just about get it done in a day. And, what a day that would be!
#1: “Peep Show” (2003-15)
Not many shows get you as close to the action as “Peep Show” but since you’re watching the action through the eyes of these dysfunctional characters, it’s like a front row seat to their latest awkward encounters. Mark and Jez could not be any more of polar opposites and yet they still manage to be the yin to each other’s yang, as they work together through whatever situation they find themselves trying to get out of at any given time. This show can be inappropriate and even shocking at times, but we are in it for the long haul no matter what.
