At one point during the season, Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha) is referred to as a “ward” of Lord Penwood (Arthur Lee). What Time Period Does Bridgerton Take Place In? Bridgerton is mainly set during the British Regency era, which is the early 19th century (early 1800s)What Does a ‘Ward’ Mean? Why Is Sophie Baek Called a ‘Ward’ in Bridgerton? Since Sophie is standing with the household staff, Araminta asks Penwood, and he confirms that she is his ward.