10 Great British Shows to improve your English
Watching British TV shows is a fantastic way to improve your English, especially if you want to learn British pronunciation, slang, and cultural references. Here are 10 British TV shows that are not only entertaining but also great for language learners.
1. Downton Abbey
Summary: Set in the early 20th century, this historical drama follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. The series delves into social issues, class dynamics, and historical events like World War I.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The characters speak in clear, articulate British accents, with a mix of formal upper-class English and regional dialects. You’ll pick up a range of vocabulary related to history, social life, and etiquette.
2. Sherlock
Summary: A modern-day adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective stories, this series stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. Watson. The show is filled with clever mysteries, fast-paced dialogue, and witty banter.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The dialogue is sharp and sophisticated, with a mix of everyday conversation and more advanced vocabulary. It’s ideal for practicing listening skills, as Sherlock’s quick wit often involves rapid exchanges.
3. The Crown
Summary: This critically acclaimed drama chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, exploring her personal life, political challenges, and relationships with key historical figures. Each season covers different periods of her rule.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The show features a range of British accents, from the Queen’s formal Received Pronunciation (RP) to regional accents. The formal language used in royal and political contexts is also beneficial for learning advanced vocabulary.
4. Peaky Blinders
Summary: This gritty drama set in post-World War I Birmingham follows the Shelby family, a powerful gang involved in criminal activities. The show is known for its dark atmosphere, strong characters, and historical setting.
Why It’s Great for Learning: Peaky Blinders introduces you to regional accents, especially the Birmingham (Brummie) accent. It’s also a great way to pick up colloquial expressions, informal speech, and slang from early 20th-century Britain.
5. Gavin & Stacey
Summary: A light-hearted comedy about the romance between Gavin from England and Stacey from Wales, and how their relationship brings their eccentric families together. The show is filled with humor, relatable characters, and charming cultural differences.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The show provides exposure to different British accents—particularly from Essex, Wales, and the West Country. The informal, conversational language is useful for understanding everyday British English.
6. The Great British Bake Off
Summary: This popular reality show features amateur bakers competing in weekly challenges to be crowned the best baker. The show is beloved for its wholesome vibe, creative bakes, and the friendly rivalry between contestants.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The relaxed pace of the show makes it easy to follow, and you’ll pick up plenty of vocabulary related to cooking, ingredients, and baking techniques. The judges and hosts speak in clear British accents, making it ideal for listening practice.
7. Broadchurch
Summary: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, Broadchurch follows detectives Alec Hardy and Ellie Miller as they investigate a tragic murder that rocks the tight-knit community. The show is intense, emotional, and full of suspense.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The show offers exposure to various regional accents, particularly from the south of England. The serious tone and in-depth conversations provide a rich vocabulary for discussing crime, emotions, and relationships.
8. Black Mirror
Summary: A dystopian anthology series exploring the dark side of technology and modern society. Each episode tells a standalone story, often with shocking twists and thought-provoking themes.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The dialogue varies from conversational to complex, depending on the episode’s setting. The show’s futuristic and technological themes introduce modern vocabulary and provide insights into contemporary British society.
9. Call the Midwife
Summary: Set in 1950s and 60s London, this drama follows a group of midwives working in the East End, dealing with childbirth, poverty, and social change. The series is both heartwarming and historically insightful.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The show features a variety of British accents, from working-class East London to upper-middle-class characters. It’s also great for learning medical and social care vocabulary, as well as period-specific language.
10. Fleabag
Summary: A dark comedy-drama about a witty but troubled young woman navigating life, love, and loss in London. The show, written by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, is known for its clever writing, fourth-wall-breaking humor, and emotional depth.
Why It’s Great for Learning: The language is modern, conversational, and full of idiomatic expressions. The London setting and relatable humor make it perfect for understanding urban slang, cultural references, and informal British English.
Final Thoughts
Each of these shows offers unique benefits, whether it’s exposure to different British accents, learning specialized vocabulary, or practicing listening comprehension. By immersing yourself in authentic British content, you’ll gradually build your understanding of British English pronunciation, slang, and cultural nuances while being entertained!
