16 iconic TV shows set and filmed in London during the 1990s

The 90s truly was a golden era for television.

Some of the biggest hits on British TV included The Vicar of Dibley, One Foot in the Grave, Grange Hill, and Father Ted.

But it was the shows set in London that really owned the telly box.

After a nostalgic weekend spent watching Between The Lines, I decided to take a look back at some of the most popular TV shows set in London during the 90s.

If you enjoy this one, we’ll take a look back at some of the other decades and their iconic TV shows.

1. Absolutely Fabulous (1992 - 1996, and revived later)

This iconic British sitcom follows the misadventures of Edina Monsoon (Jennifer Saunders) and her best friend, Patsy Stone (Joanna Lumley). It satirizes the fashion and media industries of the 1990s London. The show’s settings often highlight London's trendy locations.

2. The Bill (1984 - 2010)

This long-running police drama, set in the fictional Sun Hill Police Station, was filmed around various parts of London. Although it started in the 80s, The Bill was hugely popular throughout the 90s and captured the essence of London's police life.

3. Minder (1979 - 1994)

While it began in the late 70s, Minder’s popularity continued well into the 1990s. It follows Arthur Daley, a small-time dodgy businessman, and his bodyguard Terry (and later Ray) in London. The show highlights many London suburbs and iconic city locations.

4. London’s Burning (1988 - 2002)

This drama focused on the lives of firefighters at the fictional Blackwall Fire Station in London. The series was praised for its portrayal of London life and the firefighters' community.

5. This Life (1996 - 1997)

This show follows the lives of young law graduates living and working in London. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of the lives of young professionals in the capital and quickly became a cult favourite.

6. Press Gang (1989 - 1993)

A children’s drama, it was set around a group of teenagers running a newspaper in London. It was both witty and sharply written, showcasing different aspects of growing up in a city like London.

7. Desmond’s (1989 - 1994)

Set in Peckham, South London, Desmond’s is a sitcom centred around a barber shop owned by Desmond Ambrose and his family. It was notable for its exploration of the British Caribbean community and the local culture of London.

8. Spooks (1999 Pilot, Series began in 2002)

While the pilot episode of Spooks (also known as MI-5 internationally) was filmed in 1999, the series began in 2002. The show follows the operations of MI-5 officers dealing with national security and international threats, filmed at various real and iconic London locations.

9. Game On (1995 - 1998)

A British sitcom focusing on three friends sharing a flat in London. It explores the challenges of adult life, relationships, and work, with the city of London serving as a backdrop to their ups and downs.

10. As Time Goes By (1992 - 2005)

This romantic sitcom, starring Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer, revolves around two people who reconnect after many years. While it is primarily focused on the characters’ lives, there are many scenes and references to their London lives.

11. Men Behaving Badly (1992 - 1998)

Although originally set in Berkshire, the show is often associated with London due to its portrayal of two flatmates’ comedic misadventures, capturing the carefree and wild lifestyle of young men in 90s Britain.

12. Goodnight Sweetheart (1993 - 1999)

A comedy-drama about a man who discovers a time portal connecting 1990s London to World War II-era London. The show interestingly contrasts contemporary and historical London settings, often showcasing familiar places with a twist.

13. Birds of a Feather (1989 - 1998, and revived later)

A sitcom that follows the lives of two sisters, Sharon and Tracey, who move into a suburban home in Chigwell (in East London) after their husbands are sent to prison. The series portrays their lives in East London and their humorous adventures.

14. Drop the Dead Donkey (1990 - 1998)

A satirical sitcom set in the offices of a fictional TV news company, Globelink News. This workplace comedy is centred around the daily antics and challenges of a news team operating in London. The show was known for its political and cultural commentary on the 90s London media scene.

15. Chef! (1993 - 1996)

Starring Lenny Henry, Chef! is a sitcom centred around a talented yet temperamental chef running a high-end London restaurant. The series captures the behind-the-scenes tensions of the London culinary world.

16. Only Fools and Horses (1981-2003)

Only Fools and Horses is one of the most iconic British sitcoms of all time, and it's closely associated with London. It originally aired from 1981 to 1991, with several Christmas specials continuing up until 2003. The show is set in Peckham, South London, and follows the lives of the Trotter family, particularly Derek "Del Boy" Trotter (David Jason) and his younger brother Rodney (Nicholas Lyndhurst).