Everyone can find some of the world’s best-known authors’ works in every era and literary genre from the British Isles. This group of writers is responsible for some of literature’s most memorable characters and stories and some of its most well-known phrases. The literary culture of the United Kingdom dates back more than a millennium and shows no signs of abating. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most well-known British authors and some of their best-known works.

A plethora of notable writers has emerged throughout history. Some so many deserving candidates selecting just ten would be difficult. As a result, we’ve chosen our top ten wordsmiths, each of whom has unquestionably influenced history. Please take a seat, turn off your email, and join us as we journey through the lives of our top ten authors.

Mark Twain

In 1835, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known by his pen name Mark Twain, was born. Many of his works, including Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, have stood the test of time, earning him the title of “the greatest humorist the United States has ever created,” according to his literary contemporary William Faulkner. In addition to being an excellent storyteller, he shed light on the milieu of late-nineteenth-century America through his books. Even if you only read one of his two works, you’ll understand why his ideas are still relevant today.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a prolific British author, but perhaps the best explanation for his inclusion on our list is to mention one name: Sherlock Holmes. Even after Doyle’s death, people of all ages and backgrounds worldwide recognize the persona he created in his series of crime novels. More than 50 novels have been written about Sherlock Holmes and his trusted sidekick, Dr. Watson, who continue to captivate fans today. We couldn’t leave out one of our favourite authors.

HG Wells

H.G. Wells was a science fiction author, humorist, and social prophet from England. He was hailed as the “Father of Science Fiction” and met luminaries such as Jules Verne due to his prolific output. A man who lived between 1866 and 1946 predicted the development of space flight, nuclear weapons, and the concept of a global network. We couldn’t leave him out of our top ten because he created masterpieces like War of the Worlds and The Time Machine.

Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin, one of the most influential authors of all time, wrote a series of books that profoundly influenced our understanding of ourselves and our planet. As contentious as the Origin of Species may be to those who believe in a different theory of man’s origin, its global impact should not be underestimated. The writings of this great English naturalist and writer, a cornerstone of modern biology, will always have a place in our hearts.

William Shakespeare

There isn’t much more to say about William Shakespeare, widely regarded as the greatest English-language author of all time. Shakespeare’s most well-known works include Hamlet, Macbeth, King Lear, and Romeo and Juliet. He also coined phrases for the English language such as “brilliant,” “dwindle,” and “daring.” This is an important writer who was part of the team that created it when it comes to changing the world!

Dickens 

Charles Dickens, born in Higham, Kent, is widely regarded as a literary genius, with works such as A Christmas Carol, Oliver Twist, and A Tale of Two Cities. Dickens was not only regarded as a literary giant after his death but also highly regarded during his lifetime and is still regarded as the greatest Victorian author today. Dickens was a humanitarian and social critic when life was difficult for many people, and his works are beloved by readers worldwide.

Jane Austen

Jane Austen, author of classics such as “Sense and Sensibility” and “Pride and Prejudice,” was an outspoken critic and commentator during a time when patriarchy was still prevalent. She is now regarded as a 19th-century feminist because her novels explore how women desired marriage to gain social and financial security. Austen’s use of sarcasm and comedy in some of the most famous books of the day paved the way for women. The only regret is that much of her acclaim came after her death rather than while alive.

George Orwell

When discussing dystopian future literature, George Orwell’s 1984 comes to mind first because of its vivid and unsettlingly accurate portrayal of a totalitarian regime. Animal Farm and a Homage to Catalonia are two of his works that are required reading for anyone interested in social justice. Orwell established himself as a literary giant with phrases like “Big Brother,” “Room 101,” and “Thought Police.” A worthy recipient of the tenth and final spot on our list of the most influential authors.