It is April 1912, and news arrives of the sinking of the Titanic with the loss of Downton's heir James and his son Patrick.
Matthew and his mother Isobel arrive at Downton, but trouble lies ahead as doctor's widow Isobel immediately finds her views at odds with Violet's.
Mary is instantly attracted to handsome Turkish attache Kemal Pamuk, but their romance is cut brutally short and sends ripples of unease through the house.
Violet and Isobel are in conflict over a medical ailment affecting Molesley, and Carson fears that there is a thief at Downton.
Mary is introduced to a potential suitor, but she thinks that he is too old and stuffy - meanwhile, Mrs Patmore fears she may be going blind.
Sybil's interest in politics gets her in trouble, Matthew and Mary's relationship takes an unexpected turn, and Bates makes a shocking revelation.
The family is astonished when Lady Cora Crawley finds that she is pregnant, and the announcement leaves Mary wondering how to answer Matthew's proposal.
The Great War unsettles life at Downton as a surprise concerning Matthew rocks the family, a new maid irritates O'Brien, and Bates has devastating news.
Carson is finding it tough maintaining standards in the house, and a suicide prompts Isobel to suggest converting Downton Abbey into a convalescent hospital.
Matthew brings a general to visit Downton's new convalescent home, but Branson has a surprise in store - meanwhile, Lavinia appears to be hiding something.
Tensions flare between Isobel and Cora, Ethel's flirtation with Major Bryant lands her in hot water, and there is worrying news about Matthew.
Robert receives shocking news from the front, Daisy's relationship with William moves faster than she would like, and Vera threatens to expose old secrets.
Carlisle threatens to ruin Mary if she jilts him, a newly-arrived major's identity is questioned, and Bates learns that Vera has scuppered the divorce.
Sybil and Branson attempt to keep their secret, Carlisle puts Anna in a difficult position, and Bates is left reeling from the news about Vera.
There is excitement in the air with the wedding approaching, Spanish flu reaches Downton, and a decisive Anna forces Bates to think about their future.
As we return to Downton Abbey, the household is bustling with all the Christmas preparations. But, there's tension in the air between Sir Richard Carlisle, Lady Mary and Matthew... And, Bates' trial casts a dark cloud over the festivities. Will he be found guilty of the murder of his wife?
The cast and creators of the award-winning drama series tell the story of the show from the inside. The actors talk exclusively about their characters and the gripping storylines, giving the audience a real insight into the romance and conflict portrayed in the series. There is also behind-the-scenes footage from key locations - the historic Ealing Studios in London where the 'below stairs' scenes are shot and the fabulous Highclere Castle in Berkshire, site of most of the 'above stairs' scenes. Plus there is a look at the filming of the dramatic opening of the second series, set during the Battle of the Somme and shot on location near Ipswich.
Cora’s mother arrives for Matthew and Mary’s wedding. New footman Alfred strives to meet Carson’s high standards, under the watchful eye of his aunt O’Brien.
Hoping for a bailout from her American grandmother, Mary makes sure Downton puts on a bigger show than ever before. Mrs Hughes gets worrisome news. Thomas disapproves of O'Brien's attempts to boost Alfred's progress.
Edith's big day finally arrives, but will the family be convinced that Strallan's age does not matter? Mary takes matters into her own hands - but the price could be high.
Branson's political views land him in hot water and Sybil's loyalty is tested to the limit. Ethel is torn between head and heart as she makes a decision about her son's future.
An exciting offer for Edith divides opinion. Isobel throws Ethel a lifeline. New maid Ivy is attracting attention below stairs, and Alfred's interest is resented by Daisy.
Tempers fray as Isobel's kind gesture backfires. Branson's decisions are put under scrutiny. As Bates's chance of freedom slips away, he goes to extreme lengths.
Anna's patience is finally rewarded. Edith has an unexpected admirer. Matthew refuses to back down over his concerns. Branson's plans for the christening cause consternation.
There's excitement in the house and village as the annual cricket match approaches, and the event brings out Robert's competitive side. Violet's great-niece Rose shows up but a trip to London reveals there is more to her than meets the eye. Matthew and Mary look like they are keeping secrets from each other. Thomas finds out that his future lies in Carson's hands.
The family receive a warm welcome at Duneagle Castle when they visit Rose and her parents in the Highlands. But there is no disguising the tensions between their hosts. Back at Downton, Carson is determined to keep the servants working hard, but with a country fair coming up, will some be tempted to push their luck? Could romance be on the cards for Mrs Patmore?
RETURN TO DOWNTON ABBEY savors fond memories from the past three seasons and offers a tantalizing taste of Season 4 from the series The New York Times called “an instant classic.” Hosted by Susan Sarandon — a devoted fan of the series who especially admires the writing of fellow Oscar®-winner Julian Fellowes — the program includes a mix of behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with creators and cast members, and video clips of favorite moments.
Mary is finding it hard to come to terms with Matthew's death. Robert and Violet fall out over how to handle the situation. Jimmy takes an interest in Ivy, while Carson receives an unwelcome reminder from his past.
Mary starts to get over the grief she is feeling, and takes an interest in the running of the estate. Lady Rose MacClare, Lady Flintshire's daughter, ends up in a predicament at a tea dance in York. Hughes attempts to convince Carson to heal an old wound.
An extravagant house party at the Abbey gives the Crawleys a chance to reconnect with old friends. But some guests prove more welcome than others, and along with the celebrations come skulduggery and heartache.
Amid the fallout from the eventful house party, Mary faces a pressing question about her future. Carson reveals surprisingly intimate details of his former life, and a trip to the bright lights of London sees Rose put the reputation of the Crawleys in jeopardy.
Change is in the air as an exciting opportunity for Alfred creates tension between Ivy and Daisy. Isobel appeals to Violet's charitable nature, but it does not come without a fight, and Branson considers a new future for himself and baby Sybbie.
A birthday party is planned for Robert, but Rose's surprise contribution to the event ruffles feathers above and below stairs. A new farming venture on the Downton estate comes with dramatic repercussions for Mary, and Edith receives more unwelcome news.
Cora's playboy brother has got himself into a spot of bother and Robert has to make a trip to America to bail him out. Blake and Mary are forced to put aside their differences to deal with a new farming venture on the estate. When Violet is taken ill, help comes from an unlikely quarter. In spite of Mrs Hughes, Mrs Patmore and Carson's attempts to keep the peace, romantic tensions below stairs cause problems.
Rosamund comes up with a plan to help Edith deal with her problem, but Violet may be about to see right through it. Isobel is the object of someone's attention, while Mary asks Gillingham for a favour. Rose is frustrated when things do not go her way and Alfred realises too late that he may have made a mistake. Just as Bates and Anna seem to be getting over the worst, some unexpected news shakes her up.
It is summer and debutante Rose is to be presented at Buckingham Palace. The family are at Grantham House, their London home, preparing for the busy social programme. Never one to miss out on such a grand occasion, Martha Levinson sails in from New York with Cora's recently disgraced brother Harold in tow. Both outspoken and larger-than-life, they create quite an impression amongst certain members of London's high society. When the Crawleys are implicated in a scandal that threatens to engulf the monarchy, Robert goes to great lengths to protect the royal family, as well as his own.
Hosted by Bernadette Peters, this is a special to review the first 4 seasons of Downton Abbey and explore whats in store for Season 5.
The story moves on to 1924, when the first ever Labour government heralds a sea change that is felt throughout the nation - nowhere more so than at Downton. A suggested plan for a war memorial unexpectedly pits Carson against Robert and Mrs Hughes. Young Jimmy the footman is the object of some unwanted female attention. Thomas gives Baxter an ultimatum. Branson's growing friendship with someone Robert considers quite unsuitable causes concern. After the tragedy she has been through, Lady Mary now seems ready to find love once more. Cracks appear in Edith and Tim Drewe's special arrangement as she struggles to keep her emotions in check - something which may have disastrous consequences for the entire household.
With the house recovering from the night’s dramatic events, Robert is faced with a very difficult decision. As Daisy continues to struggle with her studies, Mrs Patmore has an idea which might solve everything. Thomas has it in for Baxter. As Rose tries to convince Robert of the virtues of a wireless at Downton, Lord Merton continues his hot pursuit of Isobel. When Mary puts her reputation on the line, Anna is made a reluctant accomplice.
Mary's secret assignation is very nearly blown, but Violet's quick thinking saves the day. Robert is left red faced and furious when things do not go as planned. The events surrounding Green's death come under scrutiny once again. Mrs Patmore is devastated when old wounds are reopened but Carson is unsympathetic. Branson receives an interesting proposition concerning the future of the Downton estate. A figure from Violet's distant past suggests she has buried secrets of her own.
Sarah Bunting continues to cause waves above stairs, but this time she may have gone too far. On returning to Downton, Thomas suffers an inexplicable illness and Baxter suspects there’s more to it than he’s letting on. Violet reveals to Isobel the surprising truth of her past with Prince Kuragin. Mary comes to a decision concerning Lord Gillingham, but things don’t go quite as planned. When Rose’s father returns to Downton, he breaks news that will shock the whole family.
Simon Bricker returns to Downton to discuss the painting with Cora. Branson makes a difficult decision about Sarah Bunting. Rose encounters a handsome stranger. Determined to stop Isobel making the wrong decision about Lord Merton, Violet enlists the help of Doctor Clarkson. Charles Blake surprises Mary with a cunning plan to help her get exactly what she wants. Mrs Patmore seeks Carson's advice on a financial matter. Inspector Vyner returns with some ominous words of warning for Anna.
Relations between Robert and Cora continue to be strained. Blake's scheming starts to come to fruition when Mary is unexpectedly pitted against her love rival. Edith receives some terrible news and decides to take drastic action. Following a mysterious tip off, Baxter becomes embroiled in the investigation of Green's death. Thomas' condition deteriorates, prompting him to finally reveal the truth to Baxter. Love is in the air for more than one member of the Crawley family.
Rosamund shows up at Downton following Edith's surprise departure. Rose is pleased to introduce Atticus and his parents to everyone. Anna and Bates think about a fresh start, now that that their problems seem to be behind them. Molesley is worried after Daisy becoming disillusioned with her studies. Mary and Blake seize a chance to send Gillingham a strong message.
Preparations are under way for Rose's wedding, but family tensions on both sides threaten to derail proceedings. Edith's arrangement with Marigold is happily working out, but how long can she and Cora conceal the truth from Robert? Denker reveals an unexpected side to her personality, which causes trouble for more than one of the servants. With the war memorial due to be unveiled, Mrs Patmore is still upset, but Robert has something up his sleeve. Branson comes to a heart-wrenching decision, and the storm clouds that have been gathering over Anna and Bates finally burst.
It is the autumn of 1924 and Rose's father-in-law Lord Sinderby has rented Brancaster Castle in Northumberland for the grouse shooting season. The Crawleys are invited to join the party. Although there is good sport, a butler with an axe to grind and a scandalous secret threaten to derail the holiday. As the two families get to know each other better, some new faces arrive on the scene. Back at Downton Abbey, the servants hold the fort - and there are some surprising romantic moments. Behind bars, Anna continues to face an uncertain future, while Bates takes drastic measures to clear her name. Christmas is celebrated at Downton. As the family and their servants enjoy the festivities, there is romance, a heart-breaking farewell, sad memories of lost loved ones and a joyful reunion.
It’s Christmas at Downton and Lord Robert Crawley seems to be facing financial ruin once again. He’s beginning to wonder if his family may be better off without him but divine intervention in the form of a very special heavenly body gives him a view of what life would really be like without his guiding spirit.
It is now 1925, when secrets and rifts threaten the unity of the family, while those below stairs are faced with social changes.
Lady Mary's meddling gets Mr Carson into trouble with Mrs Hughes. Cora and Violet lock horns over the hospital takeover plans. Robert has a tough decision to make.
Preparations for the wedding of Mr Carson and Mrs Hughes are under way. Edith meets up with an old acquaintance. Spratt has something to hide.
As Tom and Sybbie settle back into life at Downton, the family and servants are surprised by the return of another old friend in unexpected circumstances.
Neville Chamberlain visits Downton for dinner, and is drawn into Violet's plan to save the hospital, with distressing consequences for everyone. Andy finds an unexpected confidante while helping Mr Mason move into Yew Tree Farm, Mary is uncertain if she has met her match, Edith meets Bertie Pelham in London, and Spratt comes to Denker's aid. Mrs Hughes struggles to keep Carson happy, while Mary thinks secrets are being kept from her.
The house is made open to the public to raise money for the hospital, an act that divides opinions among the family and the servants. Tensions between Violet and Cora come to a head as a decision is made about the hospital takeover, Mr Dawes has a proposition for Molesley, and Baxter is thrown into turmoil by an unexpected letter. Carson is not happy with Thomas, while Mary and Edith hope to overcome their past and find new happiness with the men in their lives.
The Crawleys watch Henry compete in a motor racing event, an occasion that leaves Mary reeling. Violet hatches a plan which surprises the family and delights Miss Denker, and learns more about Amelia's intentions in befriending Isobel. Molesley and Daisy rise to the challenges of examination day, Andy's secret is brought to light, Thomas feels isolated, and Mrs Patmore and Mrs Hughes teach Carson a lesson.
Bertie's circumstances change suddenly, leaving Edith uncertain whether to risk telling him the truth or keep her past a secret at all costs. Mary wonders if she can ever make peace with her sister as hostilities escalate, Spratt shows some hidden talents and Molesley's first day as a teacher does not go according to plan. Mrs Patmore's bed and breakfast attracts unwanted attention, leaving her in need of the Crawleys' help.
Mary endeavours to build bridges with her sister while Edith’s secret continues to pose a threat, despite having nothing left to lose. As Henry settles into the role of husband and stepfather, finding his place at Downton proves more difficult. Below stairs, Carson faces some personal challenges, which prove that even he is not invulnerable to change.
The staff and the extended Crawley family return to Downton Abbey where they must make grand preparations for a visit by the royal family.
The Crawley family sets out on a grand journey to the South of France to discover the mystery behind the dowager countess's newly inherited villa.
This one-hour documentary features revealing interviews with leading cast members, including Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, Laura Carmichael, Joanne Froggatt, Brendan Coyle, Sophie McShera and others. Discover the secrets of how the aristocratic set dined and dressed, how they married and made money, how they interacted with the servants, and above all why they behaved as they did. Illustrated with memorable moments from Downton Abbey, the program is a treat for fans and anyone fascinated with the customs of early 1900s Britain.
The Abbey auditions for it's highly sought after Father Christmas part. Turning up are Sir Bruce Forsyth, Gordon Ramsay, Gok Wan, Brenda Blethyn as Vera, Jim Broadbent, Michelle Keegan and Warwick Davis.
Return to the world of manners with Alastair Bruce, Downton Abbey’s historical advisor. With interviews with cast members like Hugh Bonneville and Michelle Dockery, the program navigates the social protocol of aristocrats and servants in the 1920s.
The program — hosted by World of Dance judge Derek Hough and filmed at the historic Highclere Castle in England — will feature interviews with the cast, as well as celebrity fans talking about their love of the series.
