If you’ve ever swooned over Mr. Darcy’s brooding charm or admired the strength of Elizabeth Bennet, this list is for you. Netflix is a treasure chest of romantic period dramas that transport you to eras where love was as grand as the sprawling estates where these stories unfold. So, lace up your corset (or settle into your comfiest pajamas) and prepare to fall in love with love – period style!
Table: Romantic Period Dramas on Netflix
To help you plan your perfect movie night, here’s a list of must-watch romantic period dramas.
| Movie Title | Setting | Vibe | Runtime | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pride & Prejudice | 19th-Century England | Timeless, Romantic | 129 mins | 7.8 |
| Jane Eyre | 19th-Century England | Gothic, Emotional | 120 mins | 7.3 |
| A Little Chaos | 17th-Century France | Passionate, Artistic | 117 mins | 6.5 |
| Anna Karenina | Imperial Russia | Tragic, Luxurious | 129 mins | 6.6 |
| Emma | Regency England | Whimsical, Romantic | 124 mins | 6.7 |
| Sense and Sensibility | Georgian England | Emotional, Classic | 136 mins | 7.6 |
| Far From the Madding Crowd | Victorian England | Bold, Romantic | 119 mins | 7.1 |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society | Post-WWII England | Warm, Heartfelt | 124 mins | 7.4 |
| Little Women | Civil War America | Inspiring, Timeless | 135 mins | 7.8 |
| Bridgerton (Series) | Regency England | Scandalous, Lavish | Episodic | 7.3 |
| Downton Abbey (Series) | Early 20th-Century England | Elegant, Dramatic | Episodic | 8.7 |
| The Age of Innocence | 19th-Century America | Restrained, Passionate | 139 mins | 7.2 |
| Wuthering Heights | 18th-Century England | Dark, Haunting | 129 mins | 7.6 |
| Victoria & Abdul | Victorian England | Friendship, Emotional | 111 mins | 6.8 |
| Howard’s End | Edwardian England | Thoughtful, Poignant | 140 mins | 7.4 |
1. Pride & Prejudice
IMDb Rating: 7.8
Stars: Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen, Donald Sutherland
Director: Joe Wright
Jane Austen’s timeless romance comes alive in this exquisite adaptation. Set in 19th-century England, the story follows Elizabeth Bennet, a fiercely independent woman with no interest in marriage, and Mr. Darcy, a wealthy gentleman whose aloof nature hides his true feelings. Their chemistry, misunderstandings, and eventual love make this one of the most beloved romantic films of all time. Keira Knightley’s Elizabeth exudes wit and charm, while Matthew Macfadyen’s brooding Mr. Darcy is iconic. With breathtaking cinematography and a stirring musical score, the film captures the grandeur of Regency-era England. Whether you’re a longtime Austen fan or new to period dramas, this movie is a must-watch.
2. Jane Eyre
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Stars: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Judi Dench
Director: Cary Fukunaga
Charlotte Brontë’s Gothic romance gets a hauntingly beautiful treatment in this adaptation. Jane Eyre is an orphaned governess who falls in love with her employer, Mr. Rochester. Their love is tested by hidden secrets and Jane’s unwavering moral strength. Mia Wasikowska shines as the headstrong yet vulnerable Jane, while Michael Fassbender brings depth to the enigmatic Mr. Rochester. Cary Fukunaga’s direction infuses the story with atmospheric visuals and an emotional core. The moody settings of Thornfield Hall and the intense character dynamics make this a captivating watch for fans of classic literature.
3. A Little Chaos
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Stars: Kate Winslet, Matthias Schoenaerts, Alan Rickman
Director: Alan Rickman
Set in 17th-century France, this romantic drama follows Sabine De Barra (Kate Winslet), a talented landscape designer who is hired to work on the gardens at the Palace of Versailles. Amidst the challenges of working for King Louis XIV’s court, Sabine forms an unexpected connection with the royal gardener, André Le Nôtre (Matthias Schoenaerts). Directed by Alan Rickman, the film beautifully blends themes of art, passion, and resilience. Winslet’s performance is heartfelt, while the stunning visuals of Versailles and its gardens add a touch of grandeur.
4. Anna Karenina
IMDb Rating: 6.6
Stars: Keira Knightley, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jude Law
Director: Joe Wright
Tolstoy’s epic tale of love and betrayal unfolds in imperial Russia. Anna Karenina (Keira Knightley) is a married aristocrat who falls for the dashing Count Vronsky (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), leading to scandal and tragedy. Joe Wright’s visually stunning direction uses theatrical staging to create an immersive experience. Keira Knightley delivers a powerful performance as the doomed Anna, while Jude Law impresses as her stoic husband. The lavish costumes and decadent sets perfectly capture the opulence of the era.
5. Emma
IMDb Rating: 6.7
Stars: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Bill Nighy
Director: Autumn de Wilde
Jane Austen’s witty heroine Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) takes center stage in this playful adaptation. Emma is a wealthy young woman who enjoys matchmaking but is oblivious to her own heart. As her meddling leads to misunderstandings, she learns about love, humility, and her feelings for her longtime friend, Mr. Knightley (Johnny Flynn). The film’s vibrant aesthetic and sharp humor make it a fresh take on the beloved classic.
6. Sense and Sensibility
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Stars: Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant
Director: Ang Lee
In this adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, the Dashwood sisters—practical Elinor (Emma Thompson) and romantic Marianne (Kate Winslet)—navigate love, heartbreak, and societal expectations in Georgian England. Directed by Ang Lee, the film balances emotional depth with moments of levity. The stellar performances by Thompson and Winslet bring the sisters’ contrasting personalities to life. Hugh Grant and Alan Rickman add charm as the romantic interests.
7. Far From the Madding Crowd
IMDb Rating: 7.1
Stars: Carey Mulligan, Matthias Schoenaerts, Michael Sheen
Director: Thomas Vinterberg
Based on Thomas Hardy’s novel, this film follows Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), an independent woman navigating life and love in Victorian England. She’s pursued by three very different suitors: a humble farmer, a wealthy landowner, and a dashing soldier. The story’s themes of passion, independence, and resilience are beautifully portrayed by Mulligan, while the stunning countryside visuals enhance the film’s charm.
8. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Stars: Lily James, Michiel Huisman, Jessica Brown Findlay
Director: Mike Newell
Set in post-WWII England, this heartwarming film follows Juliet Ashton (Lily James), a writer who visits the island of Guernsey to learn about a unique book club formed during the German occupation. As she bonds with its quirky members, she discovers love and healing. With its warm storytelling and charming cast, this film is perfect for fans of heartfelt romances.
9. Little Women
IMDb Rating: 7.8
Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Timothée Chalamet
Director: Greta Gerwig
Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel comes to life in Greta Gerwig’s modern adaptation. The film follows the March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate love, family, and ambition in Civil War-era America. Saoirse Ronan shines as the fiercely independent Jo, while Florence Pugh delivers a standout performance as Amy.
10. Bridgerton (Series)
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Stars: Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Nicola Coughlan
Creator: Chris Van Dusen
Regency England gets a scandalous twist in this Netflix series. Following the Bridgerton family and their romantic escapades, the series combines opulent costumes, steamy romances, and a sharp narrative. It’s perfect for fans of period dramas with a modern flair.
11. Downton Abbey (Series)
IMDb Rating: 8.7
Stars: Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery
Creator: Julian Fellowes
This critically acclaimed series offers a rich tapestry of romance, drama, and class dynamics set in early 20th-century England. Follow the aristocratic Crawley family and their loyal servants as they navigate love, loss, and societal change. From forbidden romances to grand proposals, the series is filled with swoon-worthy moments. Maggie Smith steals the show with her sharp wit, while the sprawling estate of Downton Abbey adds a majestic backdrop.
12. The Age of Innocence
IMDb Rating: 7.2
Stars: Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, Winona Ryder
Director: Martin Scorsese
Set in 1870s New York, this adaptation of Edith Wharton’s novel explores the tension between love and duty. Newland Archer (Daniel Day-Lewis) is engaged to the beautiful but conventional May Welland (Winona Ryder) but finds himself drawn to her free-spirited cousin, Ellen Olenska (Michelle Pfeiffer). Martin Scorsese masterfully captures the rigid societal norms of the era, making this a visually stunning and emotionally intense period drama.
13. Wuthering Heights
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Stars: Kaya Scodelario, James Howson, Solomon Glave
Director: Andrea Arnold
Emily Brontë’s dark and passionate tale of love and revenge takes a raw and gritty turn in this adaptation. Heathcliff (James Howson) and Catherine (Kaya Scodelario) share a love that transcends time but is marred by betrayal and societal constraints. With its stark cinematography and intense performances, this version of Wuthering Heights is hauntingly beautiful.
14. Victoria & Abdul
IMDb Rating: 6.8
Stars: Judi Dench, Ali Fazal, Eddie Izzard
Director: Stephen Frears
Based on true events, this charming film tells the story of the unlikely friendship between Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) and Abdul Karim (Ali Fazal), a clerk from India. Their bond defies societal expectations and offers a fresh perspective on love and loyalty. Judi Dench delivers a powerhouse performance, bringing warmth and humanity to the aging queen.
15. Howard’s End
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Stars: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson, Helena Bonham Carter
Director: James Ivory
Set in Edwardian England, this adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel explores themes of love, class, and inheritance. Margaret Schlegel (Emma Thompson) forms a bond with the wealthy Wilcox family and finds herself entangled in their secrets. Anthony Hopkins delivers a standout performance as the stoic Henry Wilcox, while the period-accurate settings and costumes immerse viewers in the early 20th century.
16. The Holiday
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Stars: Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law
Director: Nancy Meyers
Although technically a modern rom-com, The Holiday captures the charm of a classic romance with its elegant settings and heartfelt story. Two women, Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), swap homes for the holidays and find unexpected love in the English countryside and sunny California. With stellar performances from Jude Law and Jack Black, this film is a cozy and uplifting choice.
17. Blue Jay
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Stars: Sarah Paulson, Mark Duplass
Director: Alex Lehmann
This indie gem tells the poignant story of Jim and Amanda, high school sweethearts who reconnect after many years. Set against the moody backdrop of their hometown, their conversations unravel past regrets and lingering feelings. Filmed in black and white, Blue Jay exudes nostalgia and raw emotion. Sarah Paulson and Mark Duplass deliver understated yet deeply moving performances.
18. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Stars: Lily James, Michiel Huisman
Director: Mike Newell
This delightful period drama follows Juliet Ashton (Lily James), a writer who visits the Channel Islands to learn about a unique book club formed during WWII. Amid the quaint island scenery, she finds love, community, and inspiration. Lily James shines in this heartwarming tale of resilience and romance.
19. Love in the Villa
IMDb Rating: 5.4
Stars: Kat Graham, Tom Hopper
Director: Mark Steven Johnson
In this lighthearted romantic comedy, a recently single woman (Kat Graham) travels to Verona, Italy, only to discover her rented villa is double-booked with a handsome stranger (Tom Hopper). Amid the scenic Italian backdrop, the two clash but eventually find themselves drawn to each other. While not a traditional period drama, its classic romance tropes and picturesque setting give it an old-world charm.
20. Love Guaranteed
IMDb Rating: 5.5
Stars: Rachael Leigh Cook, Damon Wayans Jr.
Director: Mark Steven Johnson
This quirky romantic comedy follows Susan (Rachael Leigh Cook), a lawyer who takes on a client suing a dating app for failing to deliver love. As they spend time together, sparks begin to fly. While it’s set in modern times, the film’s warm humor and heartfelt romance evoke the timeless charm of classic love stories.
21. Destination Wedding
IMDb Rating: 6.0
Stars: Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder
Director: Victor Levin
This offbeat romantic comedy centers on two cynical strangers, Frank (Keanu Reeves) and Lindsay (Winona Ryder), who meet at a wedding. Their witty banter and shared disdain for the event gradually lead to an unexpected connection. The sharp dialogue and unique tone make this film a refreshing take on romance.
22. Perfect Match
IMDb Rating: 5.9
Stars: Terrence Jenkins, Cassie Ventura
Director: Bille Woodruff
This breezy romantic comedy follows Charlie, a playboy who doesn’t believe in love until he meets Eva, a woman who changes his perspective. The tropical setting and lighthearted humor make it a fun watch for those who enjoy playful romances with a modern twist.
Conclusion
Romantic period dramas are more than just movies; they’re experiences. They transport you to a time when love letters were written by candlelight and grand declarations of love were whispered in the rain. Whether you’re a die-hard Jane Austen fan or someone who enjoys an intricate storyline set in a visually stunning era, this list of romantic period dramas on Netflix has something to offer.
So, put on the kettle, grab your coziest blanket, and let yourself be swept away by the grandeur and elegance of these classic love stories. Because some romances are simply timeless – and they’re waiting for you on Netflix. ❤️
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