Valentine's Day is just around the corner and many Londoners are gearing up for the big day. While some will be celebrating by going out for dinner, getting drinks, or going to the cinema, others will be hunkering down at home with a good box set.
For those who prefer the sofa to the bar stool, there are loads of excellent romantic TV shows available to stream now. From Netflix's One Day, a brand new adaptation of David Nicholls's 2009 mega hit novel which lands on Thursday, to the BBC's enduring Nineties adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, these are our picks of the series to watch to tap into your romantic side.
One Day, Netflix
David Nicholls's One Day took the country by storm in 2009: for several months it was impossible to get a tube, or walk past a café without catching a glimpse of the book's orange and white cover. Now, 13 years after its less-than-brilliant film adaptation, Netflix is releasing a 14-part series (don't worry, they're just 30 minutes each), which is starring Ambika Mod from This Is Going to Hurt and Leo Woodall (The White Lotus series two) as university friends Emma and Dexter. The reviews have been good, with the Standard saying: "Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod shine in this gorgeous take."
Pride and Prejudice, BritBox
The original, Nineties adaptation of Pride and Prejudice remains the gold standard. Who is a better Lizzie than Jennifer Ehle? Who is a better Darcy than Colin Firth? Everything is perfect and gentle and deeply romantic, with enough anguish to upset and shock, but not enough to ruin your evening.
Normal People, BBC iPlayer
This BBC 3 adaptation of Sarah Rooney's Normal People is one of the most tender and relatable love stories depicted on screen in years, which is why it became such an instant hit. Not only did the series make both Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal international stars, but it picked up four Emmys award nominations, two Golden Globe award nominations, and a BAFTA win for Mescal.
Sex and the City, NOW TV
It's a truth universally acknowledged that most boyfriends love Sex and the City, though few would ever admit it. So why not sit down on Valentine's and dissect a relationship with sex advice columnist Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker). Is it really so serious if someone is a bad kisser? Was Miranda harsh to Steve? Should Carrie get back with Big? Are all men cheaters? Perhaps you will find out something new about your partner.
Bridgerton, Netflix
Bridgerton is about as close to a soap as a period drama can get without actually being a soap: affairs, backstabbing, complicated family dynamics, shocking twists, loads of sex. Yet, it's delightful. "A pleasingly OTT exercise in glossy, glorious escapism, Bridgerton is a jolt of joy and romance," said the Standard about the first season.
Sex/Life, Netflix
Sex/Life didn't do well with the critics, but pulled in a whole host of fans who tuned in to watch the endless sex scenes between Sarah Shahi and Adam Demos's very good-looking characters, Billie and Brad. Its tried and tested premise is barely worth mentioning, it takes such a backseat to the series' 'action': a bored and frustrated house wife in a sexless marriage starts hooking up with a roguish man from her past, putting her secure life in jeopardy.
Gentleman Jack, BBC iPlayer
Gentleman Jack is based on the true story of the life of Yorkshire Victorian landowner and diarist Anne Lister. Set in the 1830s and taken from Lister's diaries this follows the landowner's lesbian affairs.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Prime Video
If you're looking for something a little less gooey, try Donald Glover's recent update of the 2005 mega-hit film. There's a romance running through the centre of the new series, but the titular Mr. (Glover) and Mrs. (Maya Erskine) Smith are also highly-skilled assassins who have a lot on their plates. On the whole, the reviews have been excellent: "I immediately wanted to, and will, rewatch it. The new Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a total delight," said the Standard.
Sex Education, Netflix
Although a teen comedy about the relationships between British secondary school students – one of whom becomes a sex therapist, following in the footsteps of his mother – Sex Education is also a coming-of-age romance, as the young teens fall in and out of love, make mistakes, and discover their sexuality.
