The 'best' British period drama is a 'masterpiece' and streaming free

More than 50 years after its creation, fans are still hailing this period drama as a "masterpiece," and it is streaming free of charge. Upstairs, Downstairs is a British drama television series produced by London Weekend Television for ITV. It ran for 68 episodes, divided into five series, from 1971 to 1975.

The series synopsis reads: "Upstairs, Downstairs depicts the complex lives of the aristocratic Bellamy family ("upstairs") and their servants ("downstairs") at 165 Eaton Place, a London townhouse, across the turbulent 1903-1930 period, portraying the social and technological changes of the time and the decline of the aristocracy. A 2010 revival follows the diplomat Holland family and their staff, including former Bellamy house parlour maid Rose Buck, in the 1936 pre-World War 2 era, facing new challenges like unemployment and the rise of fascism."

Upstairs, Downstairs has been awarded the top spot on IMDb's list of the "50 Great British Period Dramas".

The series, which fans label a "masterpiece", has an impressive 8.4 approval rating on the reviewing platform.

One fan said: "The best TV drama series, ever, period. No other television drama made in any country has equalled or surpassed this one in quality from the beginning to the end of the series. Interesting and relevant themes, historical background, outstanding writing, plots, characters, sets, direction, acting, photography, editing - every aspect is executed brilliantly and and so well that you don't even notice them. And yet it's more than just the sum of those elements - it's a complete package that is compelling and unforgettable."

Another said: "The finest thing that has ever been on television. Upstairs-Downstairs is the best PROGRAM that has ever been on television. Far and away. If you are new to it, I envy you. I am already mourning the last episode, which I will see again in a few weeks at most. My only consolation is that in twenty years, I can watch it all again."

"One of my favourite TV Programs then And now. This was always one of my favourite shows growing up, and is still one of my favourite shows today. Some might find it too English or dull, but I think it's an involving show with involving characters you grow to love. As far as I'm concerned 165 Eaton Place rocks the house," added a third reviewer.

Upstairs, Downstairs is available to stream free of charge on ITVX.