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Fans of period dramas - particularly those inspired by novels from the Brontë sisters - are in for an absolute treat, as one largely overlooked television gem is being celebrated as essential viewing. Having accumulated rave reviews and widespread critical acclaim in the years following its release, The Tenant of Wildfell Hall made its debut on the BBC in November 1996.

The three-part miniseries is adapted from Anne Brontë's 1848 novel of the same name and was directed by Mike Barker. Available to watch for free on BBC iPlayer, this outstanding period drama has prompted viewers to declare it surpasses even adaptations of Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights and Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre.

Frequently overlooked within the period drama genre, and particularly within the Brontë canon, The Tenant of Wildfell Hall features Tara Fitzgerald, Rupert Graves and Toby Stephens in the principal roles, portraying Helen Graham, Arthur Huntington, and Gilbert Markham respectively.

Sarah Badel, Jackson Leach, Sean Gallagher, Jonathan Cake, Joe Absolom and Kenneth Cranham complete a remarkably gifted supporting cast.

With three episodes each running to nearly an hour, this period drama masterpiece earned four BAFTA nominations: Best Make-Up and Hair Design, which it claimed victoriously; Best Costume Design; Best Design; and Best Photography and Lighting (Fiction/Entertainment).

The programme's official synopsis reads: "A mysterious woman with a hidden past arrives at crumbling Wildfell Hall. Through her story a tale of betrayal, abuse and defiance unfolds in haunting detail. Anne Bronte classic."

Audiences have heaped acclaim upon the costume drama in the years following its debut, with one IMDB reviewer writing: "A Wonderful Romance. I loved this mini series.

"As an anglophile who loves romances... this movie was just my cup of tea and I would recommend it to anyone looking to escape for a few hours into the England of the 1800s."

Another viewer, drawing comparisons with other Brontë masterpieces, shared: "Tenant is far more believable than Wuthering Heights or even Jane Eyre; here is an adaptation that does the novel justice. I highly recommend viewing it!"

While another reviewer echoed the view: "A classic book told truly excellently. The Tenant of Wildfell Hall does deserve to be up there with Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights as it does have all the ingredients of a classic. This dramatisation is just excellent with its only detriment being the ending feeling rather rushed."

One IMDB user review praised the series: "The actors are superb, the best Brits have to offer. The love story is beautifully handled, with real passion and feeling by well-matched actors. Another BBC classic, highly recommended: this is how romantic literature should be dramatised."

While another fan declared: "Marvellous film. Anne Bronte's epic novel should be studied and read throughout schools, libraries, and people's living rooms. Do watch this film, it's a great version of the book and very moving indeed. I'm sure Anne herself would have been happy with the way it was produced. Excellent acting and great locations."

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.