If you are an avid Netflix watcher, you probably stumbled upon the wildly popular “Bridgerton.” Filled with extravagant balls, romance and a mysterious writer dawning the name of “Lady Whistledown,” this regency era series is the perfect introduction to historical dramas. 

While not the most historically accurate, these shows are great watches that will keep you at the edge of your seat and have you fantasizing about running away to Europe. 

If you liked the drama of “Bridgerton,” allow me to introduce you to “Reign.” This show centers around Mary Queen of Scots as she goes to France to marry the successor of the king. Here, she not only struggles to figure out what’s best for Scotland, but also with family tensions, particularly with Queen Kathrine. The show also discusses other 1500s issues including brutal wars and the plague. While not being very accurate, and sometimes seeming more modern than historical, it’s a great watch. You can find “Reign” on Netflix or the CW App. 

If you prefer a more serious show filled with action, I recommend “Outlander.” This show is about a woman who accidentally travels back in time to the 1700s. Here, she meets the love of her life and her husband’s horrible ancestors. She attempts to alter the course of history in order for a better future. This show is not for the faint of heart, so please watch at your own discretion. This time warping story can be found on Netflix and STARZ. 

If the regency era really resonated with you, I suggest “Vanity Fair.” Much like “Bridgerton”, this show is focused on romance. It centers around two girls trying to find their place in upper society. It takes place in 1815 and the Battle of Waterloo looms in the background. It’s very bingeable and has the same kind of costuming as “Bridgerton.” This mini-series can be found on Amazon Prime. 

Enjoy a longer series? You should watch “The North and the South (1985).” This show centers around two friends who are ripped apart by the Civil War. Both families deal with the hardship of the war and the state of society at the time. It’s half serious, half cheesy, but it’s great regardless. Not only does this series have an amazing score but an all-star cast with Patrick Swayze and Christi Alli. You can find full episodes on YouTube. 

If you are more into historical accuracy, I suggest “TURN: Washington’s Spies.” Taking place during the American Revolution, this show is about the complex spy ring that Washington advised. It has action and really dives into the time period. This show is definitely more serious than “Bridgerton,” although there are lots of party scenes that have a similar feel. This show is on Netflix or the AMC App. 

Lastly, if the comedy of “Bridgerton” caught your attention, “Dickinson” might be the show for you. Following the life of poet Emily Dickinson, this show brings to light the trials and tribulations of being a female writer in the mid 1800s. Like “Bridgerton,” “Dickinson” uses a lot of modern elements to bring the story to life. Upbeat songs, quirky characters, and the interesting poems of Emily Dickinson make this show one to watch. This show streams exclusively on Apple TV.