1) Poldark
A number of fans stopped watching Games of Thrones due to the unsettling violence. If you miss the time when period dramas came without a healthy serving of gore, then Poldark, an enchanting tale of a swashbuckling hero that has to rebuild his life after the Revolutionary War is the show for you.
2) Spartacus
While it has yet to match Game of Thrones for narrative scale, this pre-biblical series has all the sex and violence you can handle! Spartacus tells the story of the gladiator-slave’s rebellion against the Romans through soulful performances and all the raucous sword fights, ardent glowering and elkskin accessories one could possibly ask for.
3) The Tudors
Just like Game of Thrones, The Tudors is all about political intrigue. Based on Henry VIII’s reign over England, the show has a huge ensemble cast with familiar faces. Henry Cavill, who plays Henry VIII’s BFF, is the current Superman, and you’ll no doubt recognise Natalie Dormer (Margaery Tyrell) who steals scenes as the notorious Anne Boleyn.
4) The Hobbit Trilogy
Can’t wait to see more flying dragons and people going up in flames? Look no further than The Hobbit trilogy. Not only is it the ultimate in high fantasy, but you can also check out Sherlock’s Benedict Cumberbatch giving life to the evil Smaug.
5) Rome
Consumed by assassination, power struggles, war and love affairs, Rome is Game of Thrones without the magic and it’s closest match in terms of extensive character list. If you ever wanted to learn about Ancient Rome's transition from Republic to Empire then this is the show for you.
6) The Borgias
In a nutshell, The Borgias is The Tudors, but set in Italy instead of England. While it's probably not the most factual historical drama out there, The Borgias is, at least, one of the most entertaining. Based on the real-life Borgia family and their rise to power, the show is brimming with medieval murders, incest debauched cardinals and a particularly viperous Pope. And if you think the Lannisters are evil, then you haven't met The Borgias! After all, this is the family that inspired Mario Puzo to write The Godfather!
Want to add to the list? Leave your feedback in the comments below!