6 Outstanding British Crime Series Streaming on Netflix Now
When it comes to crime shows, British television has delivered some truly unforgettable titles. From Broadchurch to Luther to Happy Valley, these shows masterfully weave together dark storylines, captivating characters, and exceptional production values. With the proliferation of streaming platforms like Netflix, it has become easier than ever for fans to indulge in British crime shows. With a plethora of series to choose from, viewers may find themselves spoiled for choice.
Currently, Netflix offers a diverse selection of British crime shows that cater to different tastes. Whether you crave heart-pounding action, historical drama, or psychological thrillers, there's something for everyone. If you revel in the suspense of watching the forces of good battle against the forces of evil, these shows are an absolute must-watch.
Uncover a captivating collection of remarkable British crime series that are currently accessible for streaming on Netflix. These enthralling shows showcase the brilliance of British television, delivering gripping narratives, compelling characters, and thrilling suspense. Engross yourself in these spellbinding tales of crime, mystery, and intrigue, all conveniently available at your fingertips.

1. Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders stands among the most acclaimed British crime dramas available on Netflix. This series accomplishes the remarkable feat of making audiences root for the villains. Set in the aftermath of World War I and loosely inspired by a real-life Birmingham crime gang, the show revolves around the Shelby family and their criminal empire. Cillian Murphy leads an exceptional cast that includes Helen McCrory, Tom Hardy, and Anya Taylor-Joy.
What sets this show apart is not just its unflinching portrayal of violence, but the profound impact it has on its characters. Peaky Blinders manages to make viewers genuinely care for the Shelby family, as they navigate the treacherous world of crime with their iconic haircuts and stylish three-piece suits.

2. Collateral
Collateral, one of the finest British mystery series on Netflix, starts with the shooting of a pizza delivery man on the street, but the story quickly takes unexpected twists and turns. Detective Inspector Kip Glaspie (portrayed by Carey Mulligan) investigates this murder, only to uncover a web of political intrigue, military drama, and human smuggling. In a mere four episodes, the show deftly handles multiple storylines and a complex ensemble cast.
Beyond its crime-solving narrative, Collateral delves into intricate relationships and explores the resilience of the human spirit. Fans seeking captivating British mysteries should not miss this compelling series.

3. Marcella
Marcella seamlessly combines police investigation with psychological drama, making it one of the finest British crime dramas available today. The series centers around Marcella Backland (played by Anna Friel), a former detective who returns to work to solve an unsolved murder case from 11 years ago. Complicating matters, Marcella's personal life is in disarray as her husband leaves her, and she grapples with memory issues and blackouts.
Employing the unreliable narrator technique, Marcella intensifies the suspense as her shaky mental state leads to questionable decisions while pursuing a serial killer. Among the top British murder mysteries on Netflix, this somber and complex show presents flawed characters that refuse to apologize for their complexity.

4. The Serpent
Set in the mid-70s, The Serpent is a limited series based on the chilling crimes committed by the notorious serial killer Charles "the Serpent" Sobhraj, portrayed by Tahar Rahim. The show chronicles Sobhraj's journey as he posed as a gem dealer and traveled along Asia's "hippie trail" from 1975 to 1976, preying on unsuspecting tourists.
The Serpent sheds light on the horrifying actions that devastated families in the '70s, particularly targeting young travelers. Brace yourself for disturbing moments as the series unfolds. Additionally, the show incorporates elements of police procedure, capturing the mounting pressure on investigators to apprehend Interpol's most wanted criminal.

5. Top Boy
Netflix revived Top Boy in 2019 after its initial debut in 2011, making it a series worth exploring from its origins. Set in a fictional London housing estate, the show delves into the lives of residents navigating a crime-ridden environment. Among the characters are Ra’Nell (portrayed by Malcolm Kamulete), who struggles with his mother's illness, and Gem (played by Giacomo Mancini), who works for a local drug dealer.
Gritty and heartbreaking, Top Boy provides an intense study of the dark side of crime and the lengths people will go to survive. Engross yourself in this compelling portrayal of life in a challenging urban setting.

6. Bodyguard
From the creators of Line of Duty, Bodyguard is a gripping thriller that follows a police officer assigned to protect a politician he despises. Richard Madden delivers a Golden Globe-winning performance as Sergeant David Budd, opposite Keeley Hawes as Home Secretary Julia Montague.
While the show revolves around a terrorism plot, its true strength lies in exploring Budd's experience with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following his service in Afghanistan. It also delves into the complex relationship between Budd and Montague, leading them down an unexpected path. Combining political drama with real-life issues, Bodyguard serves as both a crime show and a captivating thriller miniseries that remains deeply relevant.