What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedDownton Abbey
Michael Engler · Film · 2019
If you loved Downton Abbey, start with Downton Abbey (Julian Fellowes, 2010) — a series from the same story. Below: 4 books, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Downton Abbey across media.
What hooked you in Downton Abbey was the way the rigid hierarchies of British society create deeply personal conflicts for both masters and servants.
Start with the source
The source
Downton Abbey
Julian Fellowes · Series · 2010
Adaptation
Downton Abbey: A New Era
Simon Curtis · Film · 2022
Books on the same thread
Northanger Abbey
Jane Austen · Book · 2012
Explores: Social satire, Romantic disillusionment, The power of imagination.
If you enjoyed the social maneuvering of Downton Abbey, this classic offers a similarly sharp, witty critique of aristocratic conventions and the romantic disillusionments that often follow social expectations.
Lady Chatterley's Lover
D. H. Lawrence · Book · 2006
Shares a thread with Downton Abbey: Class Conflict.
Fans of the illicit romances in Downton Abbey will appreciate this exploration of class conflict and the intense psychological struggle between personal desire and the rigid values of society.
Bridgerton
Julia Quinn · Book · 2015
Shares a thread with Downton Abbey: historical romance.
You will find the same preoccupation with marriage markets and social etiquette that defined the lives of the Crawley family in this engaging look at the powerful Bridgerton clan.
Rebecca
Daphne du Maurier · Book · 1938
Explores: Jealousy, Insecurity, Social Class.
The atmospheric tension found in Downton Abbey transitions into a darker, suspenseful study of class and insecurity within a grand, isolated estate, echoing the high stakes of aristocratic life.
Series on the same thread
Upstairs, Downstairs
John Hawkesworth · Series · 1971
Shares 3 threads with Downton Abbey: Class Conflict, Social Change, Period Drama.
This series is the direct spiritual predecessor to Downton Abbey, perfectly capturing the complex, interconnected lives of wealthy families and their loyal servants navigating the changing landscape of Britain.
The Crown
Peter Morgan · Series · 2016
Shares a thread with Downton Abbey: Duty vs. Desire.
The political intrigue and royal pressure felt by the staff in Downton Abbey are amplified in this intimate, prestige drama detailing the internal power struggles of the British monarchy.
Bridgerton
Chris Van Dusen · Series · 2020
Shares 2 threads with Downton Abbey: Period Drama, Historical Romance.
Much like the scandals that often threaten the reputation of Downton Abbey, this series uses the backdrop of Regency era high society to explore forbidden love and family secrets.
Pride and Prejudice
Andrew Davies · Series · 1995
Shares a thread with Downton Abbey: Period Drama.
Those who loved the courtship rituals of Downton Abbey will appreciate this definitive adaptation, which expertly balances the social class barriers and misunderstandings inherent in historical romantic drama.
Podcasts on the same thread
1619
The New York Times · Podcast · 2019
Explores: systemic racism, national identity, legacy of slavery.
While Downton Abbey focuses on the British aristocracy, this series expands your understanding of the historical systems and legacies that shaped the societies depicted in your favorite period dramas.
The Archers
Podcast
Explores: family life, community, farming.
If the serialized, community-focused aspects of life at Downton Abbey kept you coming back, you will enjoy this long-running drama that centers on the evolving relationships within a rural community.
Keep exploring
Common questions
What order should I watch the Downton Abbey movies and the television series?
You should begin with the Downton Abbey television series that premiered in 2010. After completing the series, watch the 2019 Downton Abbey movie directed by Michael Engler. Finally, conclude your viewing experience with the subsequent 2022 film, Downton Abbey: A New Era.
Is the 2019 Downton Abbey movie a direct continuation of the television show?
Yes, the 2019 Downton Abbey movie follows the events of the original television series. It focuses on the Crawleys and their staff as they prepare for a royal visit from the King and Queen of England, which brings new intrigue and scandal to the estate.
How does Downton Abbey: A New Era fit into the series timeline?
Downton Abbey: A New Era is the second feature film released in the franchise. It serves as a follow-up to the 2019 Downton Abbey film, which itself was based on the original 2010 television series. It continues the story of the Crawley family and their household staff.
Should I watch the 2019 Downton Abbey movie before the 2022 film?
Yes, you should watch the 2019 Downton Abbey movie first. It establishes the narrative following the television series, focusing on the royal visit to the estate. You should then proceed to Downton Abbey: A New Era to follow the ongoing story of the Crawleys and their staff.