20 Best Midsomer Murders Episodes Ranked
Midsomer Murders, since its debut in 1997, has captivated audiences with its gripping mysteries, quirky murders, and dark humor. Starring John Nettles as DCI Tom Barnaby through the first 13 seasons, the show evolved with Neil Dudgeon taking over the lead role in season 14. Set in the fictional English county of Midsomer, it’s known for its mix of eerie crimes, complex characters, and occasional lighthearted moments. Let’s dive into the 20 best episodes from the series, showcasing why Midsomer Murders has remained a beloved part of British crime drama.
20. Sauce For The Goose
Season 8, Episode 7
A family feud turns deadly when Dexter Lockwood is found murdered in a relish factory owned by the Plummer family. With intense rivalries and corporate intrigue, this episode brings a thrilling whodunit filled with motives and mystery.
19. Murder On St. Malley's Day
Season 5, Episode 5
When a murder occurs at the elite Devington School, Barnaby investigates the tension between the villagers and the school. A conspiracy theorist adds an intriguing layer, leading to the discovery of secrets buried on the campus.
18. Orchis Fatalis
Season 8, Episode 3
Murder in the world of rare orchids? Yes, please. The Orchis Society's obsession with collecting rare plants becomes a deadly game, as Barnaby uncovers a plot involving illegal plant trade, adding a unique twist to the usual Midsomer mystery.
17. Written In Blood
Season 1, Episode 2
The second episode of the series establishes the iconic Midsomer Murders formula, with Barnaby facing multiple murders in a seemingly quiet village. The episode stands out as it captures Barnaby’s early shock and disbelief as he’s confronted by a series of unusual crimes.
16. Ring Out Your Dead
Season 5, Episode 4
In this episode, the bell-ringers of Midsomer become suspects after a local man, known for his womanizing ways, is murdered. Barnaby uncovers long-held resentments and eerie village legends, resulting in a thrilling tale of betrayal.
15. Vixen's Run
Season 9, Episode 3
A family gathering quickly turns deadly when a wealthy patriarch dies unexpectedly, setting off a series of suspicious events. With its cheeky humor and an ensemble of selfish characters, this episode channels the spirit of classic Agatha Christie mysteries.
14. Dead Man's Eleven
Season 2, Episode 3
A wealthy cricket captain’s wife is murdered, and Barnaby digs into the complex dynamics of the local elite. Featuring a cast of colorful characters, this episode showcases Barnaby’s sharp investigative skills and a particularly clever killer reveal.
13. Fit For Murder
Season 13, Episode 8
The final episode starring John Nettles as DCI Barnaby, this episode sees Barnaby and his wife Joyce attending a spa when murder strikes. A bittersweet farewell to a beloved character, it combines dark humor and a satisfying mystery.
12. Blood Wedding
Season 11, Episode 2
Barnaby’s daughter Cully’s wedding is overshadowed by a murder at the wedding of an aristocrat. Filled with humor and character-driven drama, this episode blends family dynamics with the tension of a good murder mystery.
11. The Straw Woman
Season 7, Episode 6
In a festival-themed mystery, Barnaby investigates the burning death of a curate during a local celebration. As witchcraft rumors swirl, Barnaby must separate myth from reality, making this a fascinating exploration of superstition and community fear.
10. House In The Woods
Season 9, Episode 1
A supposedly haunted house becomes the center of a murder investigation when a young couple is killed. Barnaby’s partnership with DS Ben Jones brings fresh dynamics, and the small-town paranoia adds an extra layer of intrigue.
9. Hidden Depths
Season 8, Episode 6
This episode stands out for its creative murder methods involving wine. With deaths themed around the drink, the investigation leads Barnaby and his partner into a tangled web of local secrets, showcasing Midsomer Murders’ knack for quirky twists.
Season 6, Episode 5
Set against the backdrop of a local equestrian competition, "The Dark Rider" explores the deadly rivalries within the world of horse racing. The plot twists around a series of murders, each linked to the mysterious death of a jockey, leading Barnaby and Troy to uncover deeply buried secrets. This episode is thrilling not only because of the mystery but also due to its deep dive into the class-based tensions and personal grudges that fuel the crimes in Midsomer.
Season 6, Episode 4
In The Creeper, Barnaby investigates the deaths surrounding an ancient country house that has been converted into a high-end guesthouse. The episode stands out with its unique plot centered around the haunting concept of a "creeper" — a mysterious figure who is said to be stalking the residents. As Barnaby delves deeper, the case evolves into one of the series' most sinister investigations, complete with dark family secrets and tense confrontations. It’s an engaging episode that mixes classic detective work with elements of suspense and the supernatural.
The Dagger in the Desk
Season 7, Episode 1
This episode introduces an intriguing murder mystery set within a private school. The victim, a teacher with a troubled past, is found dead with a strange clue in his desk, leading Barnaby to investigate the tangled relationships and rivalries among the staff and students. A strong ensemble cast and a shocking series of events help to elevate this episode, showcasing Midsomer Murders at its finest when it combines mystery with social commentary.
Season 5, Episode 3
With a focus on the world of competitive painting, "A Talent for Life" highlights an art school and the cutthroat nature of the art world. When a talented but disliked artist is found murdered, Barnaby uncovers a world filled with jealousy, obsession, and long-hidden secrets. The episode delivers a masterclass in suspense, with a series of surprising twists that keep viewers guessing until the final moments.
Season 7, Episode 3
This episode delves into the murder of an electrician who was believed to have been involved in some rather shady dealings. Barnaby finds himself unraveling a series of electrical sabotage, greed-driven motives, and a web of personal vendettas. The intriguing investigation, paired with the often darkly humorous interactions among the quirky villagers, makes this one of the standouts of the series.
Season 8, Episode 5
A chilling story set against the mysterious backdrop of Chedworth, a supposedly haunted house, this episode revolves around the murder of a historian researching the area. The inclusion of ghostly legends and old family curses gives the episode a deliciously eerie atmosphere. As always, Barnaby digs deeper, uncovering greed, long-held grudges, and betrayal, which ultimately lead to the killer's unmasking.
A beautifully dark and disturbing episode, "Murder of Innocence" focuses on the murder of a young woman whose seemingly innocent life is turned upside down by hidden secrets. The episode takes on a tragic tone as Barnaby uncovers a web of lies, jealousy, and dangerous obsessions. This one hits hard with its emotional stakes, making it a standout in the series.
Season 7, Episode 3
The season finale of Midsomer Murders, "The Electric Vendetta" stands as one of the most complex and well-constructed episodes. A power struggle in the local electricity business sets the stage for the murder of a well-known entrepreneur. As Barnaby navigates through the tangled relationships, backstabbing, and manipulations, he uncovers a much deeper conspiracy, elevating this episode as the most engaging in the entire series.
1. What is the most famous episode of Midsomer Murders?
While Midsomer Murders has many standout episodes, "The Electric Vendetta" (Season 7, Episode 3) is often considered one of the most thrilling and intricately plotted. It combines a tense power struggle with gripping twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
2. Who is the best detective in Midsomer Murders?
Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby, played by John Nettles, is widely regarded as the heart of the series. His calm demeanor, sharp intellect, and ability to uncover hidden motives have made him the beloved face of Midsomer Murders. However, other detectives, such as Tom Barnaby's successor, John Barnaby (played by Neil Dudgeon), also bring unique dynamics to the show.
3. Which episode has the most twists?
The Electric Vendetta (Season 7, Episode 3) and A Talent for Life (Season 5, Episode 3) both feature an abundance of unexpected twists that keep the audience guessing until the very end. These episodes show Midsomer Murders at its best in terms of storytelling complexity.
4. Are the murders in Midsomer Murders realistic?
While the murders in Midsomer Murders are fictional, they often delve into very real human emotions such as jealousy, greed, and betrayal. The show is known for blending real-world motivations with its often outlandish and darkly comedic murder plots.
5. How many seasons of Midsomer Murders are there?
As of 2025, Midsomer Murders has aired 21 seasons, with over 130 episodes. It remains one of the longest-running detective series in British television history.
6. Which season of Midsomer Murders is the best?
Season 6, with episodes like The Creeper and The Dark Rider, is often cited as one of the best. The season features a strong mix of complex plots, emotional depth, and sharp character moments.
7. What makes Midsomer Murders so popular?
Midsomer Murders is beloved for its charming English countryside setting, clever mysteries, and richly developed characters. The show’s balance of suspense and dark humor, along with its ever-evolving cast, continues to capture audiences' attention worldwide.
8. Is Midsomer Murders still airing?
Yes, the show is still airing. After a long run with Detective Barnaby, the show continued with his cousin, John Barnaby, and has plans for future episodes, ensuring its place as a staple of British crime drama.
9. What is the format of Midsomer Murders?
Each episode of Midsomer Murders usually follows a similar format: a murder is committed in the picturesque but perilous Midsomer County, and Detective Barnaby (or his successor) investigates, uncovering secrets, lies, and complex relationships among the villagers.
10. Can Midsomer Murders be watched on streaming platforms?
Yes, Midsomer Murders is available for streaming on platforms like BritBox, Amazon Prime Video, and others, allowing fans to enjoy the series at their convenience.
Post a Comment