favourite bbc period dramas

I absolutely ADORE costume drama, and this would be a list of (in my opinion) the best BBC costume drama TV series. In a rather particular order. I'm also going to apologize in advance for not having seen Downton Abbey, which would be why it is not on my list.

#5 // Cranford (2007 mini-series)

Starring Judi Dench, Imelda Staunton, Simon Woods, *COUGH * /TOM HIDDLESTON IN A TOP HAT/ *COUGH* and Eileen Atkins.

I've seen Cranford three times now, and it is delightful. It's absolutely charming, the costumes are lovely, and the characters are so very endearing. Huzzah for that. Also, Tom Hiddleston. In a top hat.

#4 // Emma (2009 mini-series)

Starring Romola Garai, Sherlock Holmes and Dumbledore Johnny Lee Miller and Michael Gambon.

I have seen this version of Emma twice, and I must say, (please don't eat me) that I like it much better than the 1996 version with Gwyneth Paltrow. The costumes were {GORGEOUS}. 

It was also splendid to see a Harriet who was reasonably pretty.

#3 // Pride and Prejudice (1995 mini-series)

Starring Jennifer Ehle, Colin Firth, Susannah Harker and Julia Sawalha.

I really don't know how many times I've watched this one. It's completely lovely, and the acting is fabulous. Really, the only negative thing I would have to say about this version is that the romantic reconciliation in the end was less than dramatic, and actually rather unsatisfying, even though it was closer to the novel. In that aspect, I prefer the 2005 version's dramatic kiss in the sunrise. But other than that, the 1995 Pride and Prejudice is decidedly spectacular.

#2 // Lark Rise to Candleford (2008 TV series)

Starring Olivia Hallinan, Julia Sawalha, Brendan Coyle and Claudie Blakley.

I have watched all five of the series thrice, and aksdfssjgfasjfaghalsdk it may very well be my favorite BBC show, even over Sherlock and Merlin. Lark Rise to Candleford is simply glorious. The acting is lovely, the costumes are utterly divine, and the stories have this aura of warmth and grandeur. 

AND THE FEELS, BRO. I FEEL THEM. 

#1 // North & South (2004 mini-series)

Starring Daniela Denby-Ashe, Thorin Oakenshield in a suit, and Brendan Coyle.

Gahh. Where to begin.Not only is this my favorite period drama, but it (and BBC Robin Hood) also introduced me to the wonder that is Richard Armitage. The characters are rather amazing, as well as the plot even though {Le Spoiler Alert} six people die in one episode.
The costumes are equally splendiferous. Especially the suits.
 Also, /RICHARD ARMITAGE IN A TOP HAT/.