Foyle’s War — the critically acclaimed British period crime series from Anthony Horowitz, creator of Midsomer Murders — has officially been streaming on Netflix since October 22.

Airing across eight seasons from 2002 to 2015, the much-loved series is set during World War II and follows Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle — a quiet, principled widower rarely seen without his trademark fedora. While Britain is consumed by war, Foyle continues to investigate crimes on the Home Front in the seaside town of Hastings, proving that corruption and murder do not pause for global conflict.

Michael Kitchen stars in the title role, delivering a masterclass in understated authority, while Honeysuckle Weeks plays his sharp, determined assistant, Samantha Stewart.

I first watched Foyle’s War during lockdown and was captivated from beginning to end. Michael Kitchen is outstanding as the calm, honest Christopher Foyle, while Honeysuckle Weeks is endlessly engaging as Samantha — an eager, upper-class former driver with keen instincts. The series is superbly written, offering strong dramatic depth and sustained suspense that makes every episode compelling. Fans of period detective dramas should not miss this one.

What Is Foyle’s War About?

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the series centers on DCS Christopher Foyle as he confronts crime in wartime Britain. The official Netflix description reads:

“Set during World War II, this crime drama follows police inspector Christopher Foyle, who learns that crooks don’t stop for anything — not even war.”

Who Stars in Foyle’s War?

Michael Kitchen as DCS Christopher Foyle

Honeysuckle Weeks as Samantha Stewart

Anthony Howell as DS Paul Milner

Julian Ovenden as Andrew Foyle

Ellie Haddington as Hilda Pierce

What Do Viewers Say About the Series?

Foyle’s War is widely regarded as one of the finest dramas in British television history, praised for its intelligence, elegance, and emotional depth.

One viewer wrote:

“Rewatching Foyle’s War — in my opinion, the best drama ever made for television. I can’t believe Michael Kitchen never received an award for his brilliant performance.”

Another shared:

“I started watching Foyle’s War with nothing else to watch — now I’m completely hooked. Elegant, intelligent, and gripping.”