This beloved period drama took viewers by storm when it first premiered, quickly becoming a fan favourite, and now its available to stream for free
04:30, 30 Aug 2025Updated 10:28, 31 Aug 2025
The series aired from 2008-2011 (Image: BBC)
Praised by viewers for its sense of “authenticity” this historical drama is available to stream free on charge. Lark Rise to Candleford is a British period drama produced by the BBC, adapted from Flora Thompson’s semi-autobiographical trilogy set in the English countryside and viewers can’t seem to get enough.
The original novels published between 1939 and 1943 inspired the show’s debut in 2008. The series ran for a total of four seasons before it finished in 2011 and featured a talented cast including Julia Sawalha, Olivia Hallinan, Claudie Blakley, Brendan Coyle and Dawn French, among many others, the Express reports.
Lake Rise to Candleford is told through the narrative of a young girl as she leaves her life behind to start a new life in the late 19th century.
The series official synopsis reads: “Lark Rise to Candleford is the story of a young girl, Laura, who leaves her rural hamlet of Lark Rise to work in the market town of Candleford as a postmistress’s assistant, chronicling village life, seasonal events, and the relationships among farmworkers, craftsmen, and the gentry through her eyes.”
“The narrative, seen through Laura’s experiences, details the traditions, hardships, and joys of both communities in the late 19th century, offering a fond and documentary portrayal of a bygone rural England,” the synopsis continues.
During its debut, Lake Rise to Candleford was named “best BBC period drama” by Screen Rant. The series earned widespread praise and its cancellation prompted fans to launch petitions in an effort to bring the show back.
Lark Rise to Candleford is available to stream on U (Image: BBC)
It holds a 4.9 out of five stars rating on Google reviews with viewers praising the shows “authenticity” which was consistently “masterfully” conveyed throughout the show’s run.
Fans frequently praise the series for its warmth, attention to detail and timeless portrayal of community life in the countryside, as well as highlighting just how funny the show was.
Taking to Google to share their thoughts, one fan expressed: “I love period costume dramas’ anyway but this one is different to the big house dramas’. Its more natural and down to earth in beautiful rustic settings. Everything about it is authentic, from the clothes, the buildings the props etc. Even the accents are perfect for that place and time.”
Viewers praised the show for its ‘authenticity’ (Image: BBC)
Another fan gave a glowing review, penning: “This is the best of the best costume dramas, and perhaps the best BBC production! The acting, the set, the costumes, the story line, and lessons learned about dealing with life/people issues in a fun yet serious fashion.”
Another said: “This production is masterfully done! It will make you laugh, cry, and leave you with some questions about yourself and your attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions of life. If you don’t enjoy this gem, check your pulse!”
Lark Rise to Candleford is available to watch on free streaming platform U.
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