The United Kingdom (UK) reality shows offer a diversified concept to audiences–from baking competitions to dating dramas–these shows create unforgettable moments and unforgettable characters. Today, let’s delve into the most-watched reality shows that keep millions glued to their screens every week.
1. Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star
Make-up is an essential element for enhancing one’s appearance and boosting self-confidence. For those working in showbiz, it helps them fully embody their characters and bring their roles to life. Underlying this beauty theme, Michael Fraser created Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make-Up Star under the direction of Rob Fisher. It portrays the lifestyle of aspiring makeup artists participating in a challenge to win, thus paving the way for them to assist legendary makeup artists on a contract basis. All ten contestants are assigned different tasks, like creating a glamorous look for a photo shoot, a fashion shoot, or a red carpet event look.
At times, themed make-up looks–Bridgerton, are put before participants, and they must excel and complete the task within a limited time. This final look will be reviewed by famous industry experts Dominic Skinner from MAC and Val Garland from L’Oréal Paris; failing to impress the judges will lead to elimination. Throughout this show, many judges donned the hat of presenter. In the first season, Stacey Dooley hosted the show; thereupon, Maya Jama presented for season three. Thereafter, Leomie Anderson stepped in to present for season five. The success of this show has led to the renewal for a sixth season, which began on 10 April 2025.
2. Interior Design Masters
Renovating a home or any commercial building requires expert opinion. But what if these expert opinions are from amateurs? Yes, Amy Ruffell developed a story revolving around this concept, and it was brought to life by director Diccon Ramsay. A reality show that focuses on ten amateur interior designers as they compete to transform spaces under tight deadlines. Their level of tasks increases day by day.
They must redesign restaurants, salons, or any buildings as per the client’s requirement, and failing may culminate in stepping out of the show. This show highlights the participants’ perseverance and talent, ultimately rewarding the most innovative designer with a career-defining opportunity. The Interior Design Master Show was hosted by various presenters from its debut in 2019 to its conclusion in 2025.
3. Squid Game: The Challenge
Even though it might sound similar to the Korean series, it’s actually different. Under the Netflix banner, this British series drew inspiration from the original Korean Squid Game, where 456 contestants compete against each other for a huge cash prize, and failing to win will result in dangerous consequences– death. Unlike the original series concept, no participants are killed; they are eliminated. As the game intensifies, the task difficulty level elevates. Hence, allowing one of the contestants to win a cash prize. Primarily released on 22 November 2023, its success still roars on the platform.
4. Snowflake Mountain
Parental guidance is essential for children’s upbringing. However, will this work for adults? This show’s creators brought a unique concept of ten adults living in a wilderfree environment without parental guidance for self-discovery. Though it was released in 2022, the show’s underperformance led to its shutdown. But people looking for drama amidst nature can watch its first season on Netflix.
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5. Celeb Cooking School
Celebrities performing before the camera are excellent, but can celebrities cooking on camera be just as good? It involves celebrities undergoing an intensive cooking class in a school, where they are supposed to prepare delicious dishes. It will be judged by famous chef Giorgio Locatelli and his assistant Poppy O’Toole, and their review results in the elimination of the celebrity cook from the show; the winner is awarded the best in class title. This reality series began in 2022 and wrapped up in 2024.
We can see that the British reality shows are different in storylines, humour, and presentation. Their unique ideas draw audiences across the globe. Irrespective of the genre, people are fans of their qualitative content. But, there are only a few shows that remain close to viewers’ minds.
Written By: Tejaswini Prasad