Discover the Charms of Scotland: Must-Watch British TV Shows Set In Scotland

Scotland, with its rugged beauty and captivating history, serves as the enchanting backdrop for a myriad of British TV shows. From thrilling dramas to sidesplitting comedies, the Scottish scenery and culture play a pivotal role in shaping these compelling stories. If you’re ready to embark on a journey through the heart of Scotland via your TV screen, here’s a curated list of British TV shows set in Scotland that you absolutely must watch.

1. The Victim

Location: Edinburgh and Greenock

This legal drama takes you on an emotional rollercoaster as a mother seeks justice for her son’s murder and the subsequent trial. The Victim doesn’t just deliver intense storytelling; it dives into moral complexities that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Where to Watch: Prime Video

2. Monarch of the Glen

Location: Scottish Highlands (Fictional Glenbogle estate)

Combining drama and comedy, Monarch of the Glen unfolds in the fictional Glenbogle estate, nestled in the Scottish Highlands. The series follows a young restaurateur returning home to manage his family’s estate, offering a heartwarming portrayal of Scottish country life.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

3. Still Game

Location: Fictional suburb of Glasgow

Join the uproarious journey of two pensioners, Jack and Victor, as they navigate the challenges and joys of growing older in a fictional Glasgow suburb. Still Game is a delightful comedy celebrated for its humorous take on the Scottish aging experience.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

4. Shetland

Location: Shetland Islands

A captivating crime drama based on Ann Cleeves’ novels, Shetland unfolds against the backdrop of the remote Scottish Shetland Islands. Known for compelling storylines and breathtaking scenery, this series is a must-watch for crime drama enthusiasts.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

5. Outlander

Location: Throughout Scotland

Immerse yourself in Scottish history and culture with Outlander, a historical drama based on Diana Gabaldon’s novels. This series masterfully weaves romance, adventure, and time travel, showcasing Scotland’s landscapes and heritage.

Where to Watch: Prime Video

6. The Nest

Location: Glasgow

A Glasgow-set drama, The Nest delves into the complexities of a surrogacy arrangement involving a wealthy couple and a teenage girl. Exploring themes of class, aspiration, and morality, it provides a gripping narrative against the contrasting landscapes of the city.

Where to Watch: Disney+

7. One of Us

Location: Highlands and Edinburgh

Set against the stunning landscapes of the Highlands and Edinburgh, One of Us is a thriller that unravels the aftermath of a brutal murder affecting two families. Dark themes, complex characters, and the stark beauty of Scottish locations characterize this gripping series.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

8. Taggart

Location: Glasgow

An iconic Scottish television export, Taggart is a gritty detective series set in Glasgow. Renowned for its dark storylines and the unforgettable catchphrase “There’s been a murder!,” this show’s longevity attests to its popularity and strong Scottish identity.

Where to Watch: ITVX

9. Guilt

Location: Edinburgh

Guilt, set in Edinburgh, seamlessly blends dark comedy with crime. Starting with an accidental crime, the series unfolds into a narrative of complex moral dilemmas against the elegant streets and shadowy corners of the Scottish capital.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

10. Two Doors Down

Location: Suburban street in Glasgow

This sitcom, set on a suburban street in Glasgow, offers a humorous peek into the everyday lives of its residents. Two Doors Down captures the quirks and foibles of Scottish suburban life with a light-hearted touch.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

11. Field of Blood

Location: Glasgow in the 1980s

Transport yourself to 1980s Glasgow with Field of Blood, a crime drama that follows a young journalist navigating a male-dominated newsroom. The series weaves a gripping storyline with a vivid portrayal of the social and political climate of the time.

Where to Watch: Prime Video

12. River City

Location: Fictional Glasgow suburb of Shieldinch

A Scottish soap opera set in the fictional Glasgow suburb of Shieldinch, River City provides a slice of urban life in Scotland. Explore the lives, loves, and challenges of diverse characters in a vibrant community with rich storytelling.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

13. Hamish Macbeth

Location: Fictional village of Lochdubh

Set in the fictional village of Lochdubh, Hamish Macbeth is a drama series that blends mystery with a touch of comedy. Centered around PC Hamish Macbeth, the show captures the idiosyncrasies of small-town Scottish life against the stunning Highland scenery.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

14. Case Histories

Location: Edinburgh

Based on Kate Atkinson’s novels, Case Histories is a crime drama series set in Edinburgh. Follow private investigator Jackson Brodie as he solves complex cases, with the historic and picturesque city providing a compelling backdrop.

Where to Watch: UKTV Play (Free)

15. Hope Springs

Location: Fictional Scottish village

Set in a fictional Scottish village, Hope Springs revolves around four female ex-cons attempting to start over. This drama-comedy series is renowned for its beautiful setting, blending Scottish charm with tales of redemption and friendship.

Where to Watch: Available on DVD

16. Lip Service

Location: Glasgow

Lip Service, a drama series set in Glasgow, follows the lives of a group of LGBTQ+ friends. Offering a modern and frank portrayal of contemporary relationships and sexuality, it unfolds against the urban backdrop of Scotland’s largest city.

Where to Watch: Apple TV

17. Take the High Road

Location: Fictional village of Glendarroch

Formerly known as High Road in its later years, this long-running soap opera was set in the fictional village of Glendarroch. Offering stories of rural Scottish life, it provided a contrast to urban-based dramas.

Where to Watch: STV Player

18. Rebus

Location: Edinburgh

Based on the Ian Rankin novels, Rebus is a detective series set in Edinburgh. Follow DI John Rebus as he navigates the dark underbelly of the city, with its historic and atmospheric streets playing a crucial role in the storytelling.

Where to Watch: UKTV Play

19. Scot Squad

Location: Various locations in Scotland

This mockumentary comedy series takes a humorous look at the everyday tasks of the Scottish police force. Scot Squad is set across various locations in Scotland, offering a light-hearted and affectionate parody of policing in the country.

Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer

Scotland’s TV landscape is a treasure trove of diverse stories, each weaving its narrative against the breathtaking backdrop of this enchanting country. So, grab your remote, settle into your favorite spot, and let these British TV shows set in Scotland transport you to a world of drama, comedy, and everything in between. Happy watching!