Downton Abbey

Cora's mother sweeps into Downton for Matthew and Mary's wedding, but with the couple's relationship under strain will they even make it to the altar? New footman Alfred strives to meet Carson's high standards, under the watchful eye of his aunt O'Brien. Robert's shocking news brings financial worries to the fore, on an unprecedented scale. Might he lose Downton itself and all it stands for?

The future of Downton hangs precariously in the balance. In the hope of financial rescue from her American grandmother Mary and Violet conspire to make sure Downton puts on a bigger show than ever before with a grand party for friends and neighbours. Mrs Hughes faces some worrying personal news, and O'Brien's efforts to accelerate Alfred's progress rankle with Thomas.

Edith's big day finally arrives. Will her enthusiasm finally convince the family that Strallan's age does not matter? It's the end of the line for Downton's finances and Mary takes matters into her own hands, but the personal price could be high. Mrs Hughes anxiously awaits her results and Anna makes a breakthrough to help Bates. Is O'Brien moving on?

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 difficult decision about her son's future. Anna is dispirited at Bates's silence, what could be the cause? Carson begins recruiting a footman, and good-looking candidate Jimmy sparks immediate interest below stairs.

An exciting offer for Edith divides opinion. Isobel throws Ethel a lifeline. New maid Ivy is attracting attention below stairs, and Alfred's interest in particular is resented by Daisy. Anna's perseverance finally pays off. Matthew's concerns about the estate grow but are his protests falling on deaf ears?

Tempers fray as Isobel's kind gesture backfires. Branson's decisions are put under scrutiny, but Mary fights his corner. Robert and Cora's relationship suffers, can Violet make them see things differently? As Bates's chance of freedom slips away he goes to extreme lengths.

It's a happy day for Downton as Anna's patience is rewarded. Edith receives admiration from an unexpected quarter. Matthew refuses to back down over the estate management, will his tactics pay off? Branson's plan for the christening causes consternation, as does the arrival of his brother. O'Brien counsels Thomas but what are her motives?

There is excitement in the house and village as the annual cricket match approaches, and it brings out Robert's competitive side. As Violet's great niece Rose arrives, a trip to London reveals there is more to her than meets the eye. Thomas's future is in Carson's hands, but Bates may be an unlikely ally. What secrets are Mary and Matthew holding back from each other?

The Crawley Family take a trip to Duneagle Castle in Scotland to visit Violet's great niece Rose and her parents, Shrimpie and Susan, but there are obvious tensions between their hosts. Whilst the few Downton servants who accompanied their masters adjust to the etiquette of a different household, the family join in with traditional Highland activities such as deer stalking and there is a lavish ball for all to attend. Mary is keen to participate in everything, but Matthew is more protective than ever of his wife. Despite most of the household being away Carson is determined to keep the servants working hard. However, news of a fair arriving in Thirsk puts more pressure on him to allow them a little relaxation. Branson also remains at home, taking care of baby Sybil and is tempted to socialise with his old friends below stairs but is this the wisest course of action?