'Masterpiece' BBC series hailed 'greatest show of all time' is free to stream on iPlayer

If you are hunting for one of the greatest series the BBC has ever produced, then look no further. Fans have been flocking to praise this comedy show, which has been hailed the "best of all time". Detectorists follows the lives of two close friends, Andy Stone (played by Mackenzie Crook) and Lance Stater (Toby Jones) who share a passion for metal detecting. Set in the fictional countryside town of Danebury, the middle-aged metal-detecting enthusiasts search the fields for treasures dating back to the Roman and Saxon eras.

Andy, an agency worker and aspiring archaeologist, leads a more structured life, while Lance, a forklift driver and vegetable wholesaler, adds spontaneity to their quiet yet quirky adventures. Crook created, wrote, and directed the show, which originally aired on the BBC in 2014. The series was met with critical acclaim following its release and ran for three series in total, concluding in 2017. Additionally, two Christmas specials were released in 2015 and 2022.

Detectorists has made it onto the BBC's 100 greatest TV shows of the 21st century and was also in Radio Times' list of Britain's 20 favourite sitcoms as voted by writers and actors in the industry.

Throughout its run, the series picked up two BAFTA TV awards for Best Scripted Comedy and Best Male Comedy Performance. Detectorists has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

Viewers have expressed admiration for the series online, with one writing: "Just finished all three series of the Detectorists. One of the best things the BBC has ever produced. Accompanied by a wonderful soundtrack."

"Detectorists is the best show on BBC in a very long time," a second shared as a third added: "Detectorists is the greatest TV series ever made by the BBC."

Echoing this, another posted: "Better late than never, but I'm so glad I found #Detectorists. This show is a subtle masterpiece. Can't believe I waited this long to enjoy it!"

Someone else wrote: "What a masterpiece #Detectorists Beautifully written and directed by #MackenzieCrook Such a great pick me up, lovely cast and beautiful settings. Highly highly recommend. Will definitely put a smile on your face."

"Detectorists is the best British sitcom of all time," a sixth shared, while another said: "Nope... best TV series of all time would have to be Detectorists!"

Back in July, Crook acknowledged fans' desire for the show's return but reiterated he has hung up his metal detector for good.

"I won't be making any more Detectorists, but nobody should be sad. We made just the right amount. Having said that, I know Toby is keen to do a live stadium tour..." the actor told Deadline.