British teen shows have long mastered the art of capturing the messy and chaotic magic of growing up, from awkward first crushes to the heart-wrenching breakups and rebellious night outs. It’s no wonder, then, that so many people find solace in this genre, especially when it has produced so many different and captivating stories for teens and young adults alike.
Whether you’re a nostalgia enthusiast or discovering these gems for the first time as you embark on these experiences yourself, we round up eight of the best UK teen series that balance heartbreak and humor for your entertainment. So, grab your cuppa and get ready to dive into the chaos and the wild rides — these are worth checking out.
8
‘Ackley Bridge’ (2017 – 2022)
Starring You‘s actor Amy-Leigh Hickman and set in a multicultural academy school in the fictional Yorkshire mill of Ackley, Ackley Bridge dives into the lives of students and staff as two previously segregated schools — one predominantly white, the other predominantly Asian — merge to form Ackley Bridge College. Such an act is an attempt to bridge social and cultural divides in the community, but quickly becomes a source of tension, though ultimately also a new sense of understanding.
What makes Ackley Bridge a standout in the teen genre is its authentic portrayal of contemporary issues in an ever-expanding Britain. The must-see series entertains with its honest approach to friendship, racism, sexuality, poverty, and family pressures through a realistic but empathetic lens. Instead of softening its message to make it more “digestible,” Ackley Bridge doesn’t shy away from offering captivating and multidimensional characters — featuring strong performances throughout — and moving drama.
7
‘Misfits’ (2009 – 2013)
With great performances at its center — namely from Iwan Rheon and Robert Sheehan — Misfits throws a wild twist on the usual teen drama by taking a group of troubled teens doing community service and zapping them with supernatural powers during an electrical storm. Set against gritty urban backdrops, it tracks their struggle to control their newfound abilities while juggling the chaos of everyday teenage life.
Created by Howard Overman, the 2009 teen series is an engaging meditation on what it’s like to be an outsider. From awkward moments to intense drama, Misfits explores friendship, identity, and second chances through its edgy and unpredictable storytelling that keeps audiences engaged. Thanks to a brilliant cast and clever writing, this cult hit keeps viewers hooked with laughs and a good dose of surprisingly heartfelt moments.
6
‘My Mad Fat Diary’ (2013 – 2015)
This groundbreaking British teen comedy-drama transports audiences to 1990s Lincolnshire, following 16-year-old Rae Earl (Sharon Rooney), who has just left a psychiatric hospital after a four-month stay. Rae, a funny and music-loving girl struggling with mental health and body image, tries to reconnect with her best friend and her circle of friends, who are unaware of Rae’s recent hospitalization.
My Mad Fat Diary throws humor and heartbreak into the mix as it thoroughly explores Rae’s journey navigating friendships, first love, self-esteem, and the road to adulthood. What distinguishes it is how it is largely told through Rae Earl’s diary entries, often an intimate and witty window into her thoughts, insecurities, and experiences. It’s not surprising, then, that Rae has become a relatable protagonist for many, and the series is one of the most poignant and heartfelt coming-of-age stories in British TV.
5
‘Heartstopper’ (2022 – 2024)
When it comes to must-see queer TV shows in recent memory, Heartstopper is a no-brainer. Adapted from Alice Oseman’s graphic novel series, the sweet and heartfelt series follows the blossoming friendship and romance between Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), a high-strung, openly gay overthinker, and a cheerful, soft-hearted rugby player (Kit Connor), at an all-boys grammar school. When the two are paired to sit together in class, their friendship unexpectedly deepens into something more.
Heartstopper charms audiences with its tender portrayal of young love through relatable characters and hopeful storytelling. The palpable chemistry, paired with a fascinating and inclusive representation and positive message it sends, has made this Netflix adaptation one of the most beloved teen series of recent times; not only does it wonderfully celebrate authenticity and connection, resonating deeply with audiences all around the globe, but it also manages to tackle important themes such as mental health and self-acceptance with sensitivity and empathy. What’s more, a movie is in the works.
4
‘The End of the F***ing World’ (2017 – 2019)
Following 17-year-old James (Alex Lawther), who believes he is a psychopath, and Alyssa (Jessica Barden), an angry classmate with a rebellious streak, The End of the F***ing World is a dark comedy British coming-of-age that kicks off when James decides he wants to kill a human for the first time, setting his sights on the edgy girl. However, their runaway road trip quickly morphs from a potential crime spree into an unpredictable journey of self-discovery and ultimately unlikely romance.
For those intrigued by psychological drama with some edginess, this teen series might be the right pick. With a fearless tone and distinct visual style, it breaks conventional coming-of-age molds by offering deeply flawed and authentic protagonists whose journey is as unsettling as it is compelling. The performances are strong all around, and the storytelling is nothing short of brilliant, too. Naturally, this adaptation of Charles Forsman’s graphic novel has earned a cult status.
3
‘Sex Education’ (2019 – 2023)
Sex Education is another essential in recent memory. Centered on the socially awkward teen Otis Mulburn (Asa Butterfield), son of an unapologetic sex therapist, the Netflix series illustrates Otis teaming up with rebellious classmate Maeve (Emma Mackey) to start an underground sex-therapy clinic at school and help fellow students navigate their often confusing and awkward sexual (and emotional) lives.
Sex Education has struck a chord with many young viewers for the way it explores a wide range of topics, including sexual identity, relationships, mental health, consent, and even family dynamics. It’s with its refreshing honesty and humor that it charms audiences, and the ensemble cast — with plenty of interconnected stories dealing with personal growth — is incredibly talented as well. Essentially, what makes the four-season-long Netflix original standout is its tackling of taboo topics in an accessible way, combined with rich character development and a rewarding sense of empathy.
2
‘The Inbetweeners’ (2008 – 2010)
Hilariously chronicling the awkward misadventures of four suburban friends (Blake Harrison, James Buckley, Joe Thomas, and Simon Bird), The Inbetweeners sees the group stumble through the chaos of school life, boyish bonding, and the often futile quest for beer, girls, and coolness. At its core, it captures the chaos and timeless teenage experience of insecurity, friendship, and hormonal confusion with sharp wit and cringeworthy yet relatable moments.
Each The Inbetweeners character brings a unique flavor: Will is the nerdy newcomer; Simon harbors a long-term crush; Jay spins tales about non-existent romantic exploits; Neil faithfully trails behind, often missing the joke. Beyond the unforgettable personalities, the series is an unmissable classic in British comedy because of its unapologetic and brutally honest humor that resonates especially with anyone who’s survived adolescence. It’s clever and hilarious, and has ultimately become a cult hit.
1
‘Skins’ (2007 – 2013)
A daring and unfiltered drama, Skins pulls back the curtain on the messy and sometimes uncomfortable realities of adolescence. It’s widely known for its raw storytelling and authentic depiction of youth issues, whether those are mental health and sexuality to substance abuse, or social pressures. Following a rotating ensemble of teens through their tumultuous lives, each series introduces a new generation of characters.
Skins has pushed many boundaries when it comes to teen TV, and part of what makes it great is also how it allows fresh stories by tackling different generations. At its core, it balances heart-wrenching drama with moments of humor, portraying teens as complex rather than caricatures (which is something that is often seen in media), with authentic dialogue and an admirable willingness to address taboo topics. Naturally, this garnered the series both acclaim and controversy. Be that as it may, though, it is an undeniable fact that Skins is among the best teen shows of all time, continuing to resonate even today.
Skins
- Release Date
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2011 – 2010
- Network
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MTV
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Danny Flaherty
Stanley Lucerne
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Ron Mustafaa
Abbud Siddiqui
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Jesse Carere
Chris Collins
