Upstairs, Downstairs (1971)

The 1971 original, not the 2010 revival. Before Downton Abbey there was 165 Eaton Place, and this is still the better-written version of the idea: 68 episodes following one Belgravia household from 1903 to 1930, with the servants' hall given as much weight as the drawing room. It began as an idea from two actress friends, Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins, and Marsh plays the parlormaid Rose. Be warned that the first six episodes were shot in black and white and the opening run is the creakiest; by the time the First World War arrives in series four, it is gripping. It went on to win eight Emmys.