British television has been graced with an abundance of remarkable female characters over the years, making the task of selecting the top 31 a delightful challenge. From determined detectives to quirky murderers, these women have not only entertained but have also provided a window into the complexities of life, making them relatable and inspiring. They are not just side characters; they are multifaceted individuals with their own passions, flaws, and aspirations, much like women in real life. Interestingly, many of the characters on this list hail from comedy, underscoring the notion that women can be just as funny as their male counterparts! And for those wondering why characters like Cersei Lannister and Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones are absent, it’s because they belong to the fictional realm of Westeros, not Britain.
31. Kate Fleming, Line of Duty
Vicky McClure portrays DI Kate Fleming, an undercover specialist in AC-12, who kept viewers guessing throughout Line of Duty. At times, she appeared to be a suspect in the chase for “H,” the most corrupt officer. However, Kate’s unwavering loyalty to her colleagues Ted Hastings and Steve Arnott shone through, as she consistently put her safety on the line for them. Undoubtedly the most skilled investigator among the trio, her tough interview techniques often left a lasting impression.
30. Miranda, Miranda
Miranda Hart’s titular character in Miranda broke the fourth wall with a charm all her own, long before the likes of Fleabag came onto the scene. As a clumsy, socially awkward woman, Miranda embraced slapstick humor with glee. Her overbearing mother and unconventional appearance made her relatable to many, and her journey toward self-acceptance was nothing short of delightful.
29. Mary Morstan, Sherlock
Amanda Abbington’s Mary Morstan emerged as a surprise favorite in a 2018 BBC Worldwide poll, earning her the title of the most popular British female TV character. Unlike many who were intimidated by Sherlock Holmes, Mary confidently held her own against the legendary detective, proving her worth not only as Dr. John Watson’s wife but also as a valuable ally in his investigations. Her hidden past as a secret assassin added layers to her character, keeping audiences on their toes.
28. Nora Batty, Last of the Summer Wine
With her iconic wrinkled stockings and hair curlers, Nora Batty, played by Kathy Staff, was a familiar sight in Holmfirth, often delivering sharp rebukes to the men around her, particularly Compo Simmonite. Despite her tough exterior, Nora’s affection for her husband Wally and her comedic antics brought a heartwarming touch to the series.
27. Ena Sharples, Coronation Street
Violet Carson’s Ena Sharples stands as a formidable figure in Coronation Street, known for her razor-sharp tongue and no-nonsense attitude. As one of the original characters, Ena commanded respect and fear alike, fiercely protective of her neighborhood. Her legacy paved the way for future strong female characters in soaps, making her an enduring icon.
26. Stella Gibson, The Fall
Gillian Anderson brought Detective Stella Gibson to life in The Fall, a character who navigated the terrifying world of a serial killer with unwavering resolve. Her fierce confrontations with Paul Spector showcased her intelligence and resilience, proving she was a force to be reckoned with in a male-dominated field.
25. Sybil Fawlty, Fawlty Towers
Sybil Fawlty, portrayed by Prunella Scales, was more than just the nagging wife of Basil Fawlty. She was a competent manager, charming guests while balancing her husband’s chaotic antics. Their tumultuous relationship added depth to the series, showcasing Sybil’s strength and wit.
24. Effy Stonem, Skins
Kaya Scodelario’s Effy Stonem transformed from Tony’s quiet sister into one of TV’s most compelling tragic figures in Skins. She epitomized the wild party girl, but beneath her carefree exterior lay deep emotional scars, highlighted by her battle with mental health, making her journey profoundly impactful.
23. Violet Crawley, Downton Abbey
Dame Maggie Smith’s Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess, was known for her acerbic wit and sharp observations. Beneath her formidable exterior, she exhibited a surprising depth of compassion, particularly for those around her, making her one of the series’ most beloved characters.
22. Cassie Stuart, Unforgotten
Nicola Walker’s DCI Cassie Stuart was a beacon of reliability and determination in Unforgotten. Her commitment to solving cold cases was admirable, though her personal struggles brought a level of complexity to her character, ultimately making her one of the most relatable detectives on television.
21. Amanda, Motherland/Amandaland
Lucy Punch’s Amanda became an unforgettable presence in Motherland and its spin-off Amandaland. A self-centered yet oddly endearing character, Amanda’s journey through motherhood and divorce revealed a vulnerability that made her relatable, despite her flaws.
20. Clare Devlin, Derry Girls
Nicola Coughlan’s Clare Devlin was the voice of caution among the Derry Girls, often overthinking their escapades. Her coming out storyline was a significant moment, showcasing her bravery in a conservative community, and making her a beloved figure in LGBTQ+ representation.
19. Sophie Chapman, Peep Show
Before Olivia Colman became an Oscar winner, she captivated audiences as Sophie in Peep Show. Initially an unremarkable character, she evolved into a complex figure, navigating love and addiction with sharp humor and relatable struggles.
18. Dot Cotton, EastEnders
June Brown’s Dot Cotton became synonymous with EastEnders over her 35-year tenure. Known for her distinct voice and strong opinions, Dot’s unwavering moral compass and heartfelt advice made her a beloved matriarch and cultural icon.
17. Alice Morgan, Luther
Ruth Wilson’s Alice Morgan was a fascinating blend of brilliance and madness in Luther. Initially an adversary, she became an unexpected ally, showcasing a depth of character that transcended the typical femme fatale trope.
16. Dawn Tinsley, The Office
Lucy Davis’ Dawn Tinsley was a standout character in the British version of The Office. Her understated love story with Tim, played by Martin Freeman, resonated with many, culminating in a memorable moment that embodied the series’ charm.
15. Jill Tyrell, Nighty Night
Julia Davis’s Jill Tyrell was a hilariously twisted character in Nighty Night. A narcissistic and sociopathic salon owner, her outrageous antics and dark humor made her one of the most memorable comedic characters of her time.
14. Frances Lorraine “Lol” Jenkins, This is England
Vicky McClure’s portrayal of Lol in This is England revealed the emotional struggles of a young woman dealing with a traumatic past. Her strength in overcoming her abusive background added significant depth to the series.
13. Jacqueline “Jaq” Lawrence, Top Boy
Jasmine Jobson’s Jaq was initially a minor character in Top Boy, but her evolution into a powerful figure within the drug trade highlighted her resilience and complexity, especially as she navigated familial responsibilities.
12. Hyacinth Bucket, Keeping Up Appearances
Patricia Routledge’s Hyacinth Bucket became a cultural symbol of snobbery in Keeping Up Appearances. Her obsession with social status and perception provided endless comedic moments, making her a timeless character.
11. Kerry Mucklowe, This Country
Daisy May Cooper’s Kerry Mucklowe was a delightful blend of absurdity and relatability in This Country. Her hilarious observations and deep connections to her family brought both humor and poignancy to the series.
10. Tracy Barlow, Coronation Street
Kate Ford’s Tracy Barlow is one of Coronation Street’s most notorious characters. Her fierce personality and tumultuous relationships have made her a staple of drama and intrigue in the series, captivating audiences for years.
9. Polly Gray, Peaky Blinders
Helen McCrory’s Polly Gray was a powerful matriarch in Peaky Blinders. Her shrewdness and emotional depth made her a central figure in the Shelby family, embodying both strength and vulnerability.
8. Vera Stanhope, Vera
Brenda Blethyn’s DCI Vera Stanhope is the epitome of a strong female lead in crime drama. Her gruff demeanor and unwavering determination made her a beloved character, showcasing a refreshing take on the detective genre.
7. Patsy Stone, Absolutely Fabulous
Joanna Lumley’s Patsy Stone was the epitome of excess in Absolutely Fabulous. Her outrageous lifestyle and sharp wit made her a comedic icon, celebrating the ridiculousness of the fashion world.
6. Rose Tyler, Doctor Who
Billie Piper’s Rose Tyler was a groundbreaking companion in Doctor Who. Her adventurous spirit and strong bond with the Doctor helped redefine the role of women in sci-fi, making her a fan favorite.
5. Tracey Gordon, Chewing Gum
Michaela Coel’s Tracey Gordon navigated the awkwardness of adulthood in Chewing Gum. Her innocence and determination to explore her sexuality resonated with many, making her journey both hilarious and relatable.
4. Fleabag, Fleabag
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag redefined the portrayal of women on television. Her candidness about her flaws and struggles, paired with a sharp sense of humor, made her one of the most complex characters in modern TV.
3. Denise Best, The Royle Family
Caroline Aherne’s Denise from The Royle Family was a quintessential representation of a loving yet flawed daughter. Her interactions with her family captured the essence of everyday life with humor and heart.
2. Nessa Jenkins, Gavin and Stacey
Ruth Jones’s Nessa Jenkins became a cultural phenomenon in Gavin and Stacey. Her witty one-liners and unexpected depth, especially in her relationship with Smithy, made her a character audiences couldn’t forget.
1. Catherine Cawood, Happy Valley
Sarah Lancashire’s Catherine Cawood is a modern television masterpiece. As a determined sergeant seeking justice for her daughter, her complex character navigated personal grief and moral dilemmas, making her one of the most compelling female leads in British television history.
