Top 5 Best Medieval TV Shows: Which One is Better?
The medieval era, with its sprawling castles, valiant knights, brutal battles, and intricate political maneuverings, has proven to be incredibly fertile ground for television. Unlike films, TV series offer the luxury of extended storytelling, allowing for deep dives into character development, complex historical narratives, and the slow burn of political intrigue. If you’re yearning for a binge-worthy journey back in time, look no further. We’ve compiled a definitive list of the best medieval TV shows that truly stand out in a crowded landscape.
From critically acclaimed epics to gritty historical dramas and fantastical adventures, these series offer immersive experiences that will transport you to a bygone age. So, if you’re asking yourself, “What are some good medieval TV series to watch?”, prepare to discover your next obsession among the greatest medieval series to watch right now.
5. The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
Based on Bernard Cornwell’s “The Saxon Stories” novels, The Last Kingdom is a powerful historical drama set in 9th-century England, a time when warring kingdoms faced invasions from Norsemen. The series follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon noble raised by Vikings, as he struggles to determine his true allegiance between his birthright and the people who raised him.
This show is a masterclass in historical immersion, offering a brutal and authentic portrayal of Viking raids, the formation of England, and the clash of cultures and religions. Its compelling characters, particularly Uhtred, drive a narrative filled with political intrigue, epic battles, and personal loyalty. For anyone asking, “What are some good medieval TV series to watch?”, The Last Kingdom is a must for its gritty realism and captivating hero’s journey. It’s truly one of the best medieval TV shows for historical accuracy mixed with compelling storytelling.
4. Vikings (2013-2020)
Vikings burst onto the scene with its raw energy and fascinating exploration of the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons. Beginning with Ragnar’s ambitious voyages to the west, the series evolves to follow the destinies of his famous progeny, including Bjorn Ironside and Ivar the Boneless, as they lead their people through conquests, explorations, and internal conflicts.
The show is lauded for its visceral battle sequences, impressive production design, and its attempt to delve into Viking culture, religion, and societal structures. While taking some historical liberties for dramatic effect, Vikings created a global phenomenon, sparking renewed interest in Norse history and mythology. Its compelling characters and epic scope firmly place it among the medieval series to watch for anyone fascinated by the Age of Vikings.
3. The Tudors (2007-2010)
While technically set at the very tail end of the medieval period and transitioning into the Renaissance, The Tudors offers an unparalleled deep dive into the reign of King Henry VIII. Starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers as the infamous monarch, the series meticulously chronicles his tumultuous marriages, political maneuvering, and the seismic shift of the English Reformation.
The Tudors stands out for its lavish production values, stunning costumes, and superb performances from a talented ensemble cast. It masterfully blends historical drama with personal intrigue, showcasing the cutthroat nature of court politics and the profound impact of one man’s desires on an entire nation. If you’re looking for an opulent and gripping historical drama with a strong focus on powerful figures and their relationships, The Tudors is undoubtedly one of the best medieval TV shows available.
2. The Witcher (2019-Present)
Based on the beloved fantasy novels by Andrzej Sapkowski and the popular video game series, The Witcher has quickly cemented its place as a top-tier medieval fantasy series. Henry Cavill stars as Geralt of Rivia, a solitary monster hunter for hire (a “witcher”) who navigates a harsh, monster-ridden world teeming with complex moral choices and political machinations. The series also follows the intertwining destinies of Princess Ciri and the powerful sorceress Yennefer.
The Witcher excels at building a rich, lived-in fantasy world rooted in medieval European folklore, complete with gritty realism, compelling characters, and thrilling action sequences. Its complex narrative structure and exploration of themes like prejudice, destiny, and the blurred lines between good and evil make it incredibly engaging. For those who love their medieval settings with a generous dose of magic, monsters, and a cynical hero, this is absolutely one of the best medieval TV shows you can find.
1. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
It’s nearly impossible to talk about best medieval TV shows without placing Game of Thrones at the top. Based on George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels, this epic fantasy series redefined television with its unprecedented scale, complex characters, shocking plot twists, and uncompromising depiction of a brutal world. Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, the show chronicles the violent struggle for the Iron Throne among noble families, alongside an existential threat from beyond a colossal ice wall.
Game of Thrones is a masterpiece of world-building, political intrigue, and character development. Its sprawling narrative, which combines elements of medieval history with high fantasy, captivated millions worldwide. The series set new benchmarks for production quality, cinematic scope, and mature storytelling in television. Despite its controversial final season, its earlier seasons represent a peak in serialized storytelling and remain the ultimate answer to “What are some good medieval TV series to watch?” for its sheer ambition and impact. It is, without question, the pinnacle of medieval series to watch.