Published August 31, 2026
By GRACE GRAHL
The long awaited Series 17 of the “Great British Baking Show” is releasing in early September. Every year, the show hosts a dozen bakers to test their skills and eliminate one baker each week. In honor of this iconic show, the top seasons are ranked by best group of bakers, best bakes, number of collective “Hollywood Handshakes” and the most drama.
#4 Series 14: Best Personality
Series 14 was a personality bonanza. Saku, a lovable grandmother figure who was constantly creating chaos, and Tasha, the first deaf contestant who frequently used American Sign Language on the show, were standouts. Another added bonus was new co-host Alison Hammond, a British talk show host and arguably the funniest person to exist. Although the personality of each baker was top notch, the overall skill was low. As Paul Hollywood says, “Style shouldn’t be over substance.” They probably should have taken that advice.
#3 Series 5: Most Drama
This collection could rival middle school gossip after a wild school dance. During Episode Four, the bakers created baked Alaskas, involving ice cream and intense freezing. When contestant Diana attempted to freeze her bake, she removed Iain’s bake and forgot to return it to the freezer. In the frenzy, Iain dumped his melted creation in the bin, creating the infamous “Bingate” and eliminating him from the show. This incident is forever remembered by “Great British Baking Show” nerds and eventually used as inspiration for a bake in Series 16.
#2 Series 16: Best Season
After almost a decade of judging, Prue Leith (bottom right) will depart from the show, leaving behind Alison Hammond, Noel Fielding and Paul Hollywood (from left clockwise). courtesy of DIGITAL SPY
Series 16 had everything a devoted watcher needs: a few comfort contestants, Alison Hammond returning and plenty of Hollywood Handshakes. Popular bakers were Jasmine, who was also the series winner; Toby, who baked a loaf of bread every day to Paul Hollywood’s happiness; and Nataliia, who was the first ever Ukrainian baker in the tent. This season had a combination of amazing personalities, fabulous bakes and a little bit of drama mixed in, making it the perfect comfort season.
#1 Series 12: Best Bakers, Bakes and Most Hollywood Handshakes
While Series 16 had a lot going for it, Series 12 takes the cake. Each baker was extremely skillful such as Jürgen, who created a functional miniature windmill out of gingerbread; Giuseppe, an Italian baker who created the Leaning Tower of Pisa out of Rice Krispies; and Crystelle, one of the only bakers to receive a Hollywood Handshake on a showstopper bake. Their bakes were unique, delicious and aesthetically crafted. Every “Great British Baking Show” season is spectacular, but this series was the icing on the cake.
