Peter Egan

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?

Preparations are underway for Rose’s big day, 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? In London, 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. Meanwhile, Branson has come to a heart-wrenching decision and the storm clouds that have been gathering over Anna and Bates finally burst.

Sarah Bunting continues to cause waves above stairs, but this time she may have gone too far. On returning to Downton, Thomas is suffering an inexplicable illness; Baxter suspects there’s more to it than he’s letting on. Meanwhile, Violet reveals to Isobel the surprising truth of her past with Prince Kuragin and Mary comes to a decision concerning Lord Gillingham, but things don’t go quite as planned. When Rose’s father Shrimpie returns to Downton, he breaks news that will shock the whole family.

As heavy smog envelops London, a young photographer and his girlfriend are stabbed to death. The press connects their death to a legendary serial killer called the Butcher, but Jericho finds a link to a local cinema.