Weekend Whodunits & Downton Drama: Your ITV3 Guide
ITV3’s Saturday night is packed with classic whodunits, period drama and a dash of light‑hearted comedy. From the seasoned sleuths of Midsomer Murders and Inspector Morse to the family‑friendly charm of The Darling Buds of May, there’s something for everyone. Below, we break down the schedule, give a quick verdict on each block and suggest the best pick for different viewers.
Midsomer Murders – The Undying British Detective Classic
14:10–16:10 – Down Among the Dead Men (S9 Ep4)
16:10–18:05 – Death in Chorus (S9 Ep5)
18:05–20:05 – Country Matters (S9 Ep6)
20:05–22:05 – Last Year’s Model (S9 Ep7)
Three back‑to‑back episodes give you a full, satisfying night of village intrigue. The plots stay true to the series’ hallmark of subtle twists, and the newest episode continues to hold up well against the classic run.
Inspector Morse – The Oxford Detective Reigns
06:35–08:50 – Fat Chance (S5 Ep2)
08:50–11:05 – Who Killed Harry Field? (S5 Ep3)
23:55–02:05 – Absolute Conviction (S6 Ep4)
Early‑morning viewing is a treat for fans of cerebral mysteries. The pacing is deliberate, and the recurring chemistry between Morse and Sergeant Lewis remains engaging, though the latest episode’s plot is a bit slower than past seasons.
Agatha Christie’s Poirot – The Belgian Detective Returns
08:15–10:15 – The Mystery of the Blue Train (S10 Ep1)
David Suchet’s portrayal continues to shine. The episode’s atmospheric setting on the train sets a reliable tone for mystery lovers who prefer a classic whodunit over modern twists.
Downton Abbey – Aristocratic Drama for the Whole Family
12:30–14:00 – Episode 1 (S4 Ep1)
14:00–15:00 – Episode 2 (S4 Ep2)
15:00–16:05 – Episode 3 (S4 Ep3)
16:05–17:05 – Episode 4 (S4 Ep4)
17:05–18:05 – Episode 5 (S4 Ep5)
Five consecutive episodes make for an immersive period experience. The narrative remains tight, and the new scenes keep the family dynamics fresh, although some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow.
The Darling Buds of May – Light‑Hearted 70s Comedy‑Drama
10:15–11:20 – Cast Not Your Pearls Before Swine – Part One (S3 Ep3)
11:20–12:30 – Cast Not Your Pearls Before Swine – Part Two (S3 Ep4)
These two episodes provide a light, nostalgic escape. The humour is still entertaining for those who enjoy period sitcoms, though older viewers might prefer the show’s earlier seasons.
New: Blue Murder Motel – A Fresh Detective Thriller
18:05–19:05 – Run For Your Life (S1 Ep5)
19:05–20:05 – Cat Among the Pigeons (S1 Ep6)
With a new series launching, this block offers a fresh take on the classic detective narrative. The tone is modern and engaging, making it a good pick for younger audiences seeking contemporary mystery.
Wild at Heart – Wildlife Drama for Nature Enthusiasts
06:00–07:05 – Episode 6 (S4 Ep6)
For those who love nature, this wildlife drama provides a reliable blend of education and storytelling. The episode’s pacing is steady, offering a calming break from the night’s faster‑moving mysteries.
Bottom line: ITV3 delivers a balanced night of classic crime and period drama, with a few modern twists to keep the lineup fresh. Whether you’re a seasoned detective fan or looking for soothing family drama, there’s a slot to suit your mood.