A Very British Mystery… Mostly
We are well into October, and I think I have officially dubbed it “A Very British Mystery… Mostly” There’s just something about this time of year—when the weather turns crisp, the tea kettle is always on, and you can’t help but reach for a blanket and a good whodunit.
Lately, I’ve found myself drawn into several British television series that perfectly fit that mood. Most can be streamed through Prime Video if you have subscriptions to Acorn TV or BritBox, and each one offers its own delightful twist on the cozy mystery genre.
🍂 ACORN TV Selections
Agatha Raisin – Starring Ashley Jensen, this charming series follows a PR-executive-turned-detective whose fashion sense is as sharp as her sleuthing skills.
The Art Detectives – With Stephen Moyer, this one mixes art history with intrigue, unraveling mysteries behind famous (and not-so-famous) masterpieces.
Harry Wild – Featuring the fabulous Jane Seymour, this witty series gives us a retired literature professor who just can’t resist a good murder case.
My Life Is Murder – Lucy Lawless brings her usual charisma to this modern, lighthearted detective drama filled with clever crimes and even cleverer comebacks.
The Brokenwood Mysteries – Neill Rea and Fern Sutherland lead this New Zealand-set gem that combines small-town charm, quirky humor, and plenty of murder.
🕵️♀️ BritBox Favorites
Sister Boniface Mysteries – Lorna Watson shines as a crime-solving nun with a motorbike and a mind like a steel trap.
Return to Paradise – Anna Samson brings emotional depth to this sun-drenched drama where secrets—and motives—run deep.
Death in Paradise – A long-running classic with a rotating cast of detectives, each bringing their own flair to the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie.
Father Brown – Mark Williams plays the unassuming priest with a keen moral compass and an unmatched knack for uncovering the truth.
Beyond Paradise – A delightful spin-off starring Kris Marshall, giving us more tropical mischief and heartwarming moments alongside the murder.
☕️ Top Picks: Start Here!
If you’re not sure where to begin, here are my top three “starter” series for a cozy fall binge:
Harry Wild (Acorn TV) – Jane Seymour is pure delight, blending sharp humor with heartfelt storytelling. It’s clever without being too dark.
Sister Boniface Mysteries (BritBox) – It’s whimsical, lighthearted, and full of heart. Plus, any show featuring a nun riding a motorbike earns bonus points.
The Brokenwood Mysteries (Acorn TV) – A touch of Kiwi charm, strong storytelling, and characters that genuinely grow on you.
These series bring comfort, cleverness, and that unmistakable British flair—perfect for October evenings when you want something intriguing but not too intense. Whether it’s the rolling countryside, a cozy cottage, or an unexpected twist, there’s something satisfying about a mystery solved over a cup of tea.
Brew a spot of tea, grab a cozy blanket, and get ready to play detective from the comfort of your living room. After all, October is the perfect month for a very British mystery… mostly.
