Watch Cranford

Cranford is a British historical drama series that aired on BBC One from 2007 to 2010. The show is set in the fictional town of Cranford in the early 1840s, and it explores the lives of the people who live there. The show is based on the novels of Elizabeth Gaskell, and it features an ensemble cast of talented actors.

At the heart of the show is a group of women who dominate the town's social scene. There's Miss Matty Jenkyns (Judi Dench), a kind-hearted woman who is loved by everyone in town; her sister Deborah (Eileen Atkins), who is the town's biggest gossip; and their friend, Mrs Forrester (Julia McKenzie), a widow who is always looking for ways to impress her guests. Together, they navigate the changing social landscape of Victorian England, facing everything from scandal to sickness with grace and humor.

Lesley Manville plays Miss Pole, another of Cranford's leading ladies. Miss Pole is an unmarried woman who takes great pride in her social status and spends much of her time gossiping with Deborah Jenkyns. Imelda Staunton plays Miss Octavia Pole, Miss Pole's sister, who is living in poverty after the death of her husband. With the help of her friends, she tries to maintain her dignity in difficult circumstances.

Alex Jennings plays Reverend Hutton, the town's parson. He is well-liked by the townspeople, but he clashes with the more conservative elements of the church hierarchy. Joseph McFadden plays Harry Gregson, the town's doctor. He has a kind heart and a quick wit, and he is well-respected by the people of Cranford.

Andrew Buchan plays Jem Hearne, a young man who arrives in Cranford to work as a carpenter. He is kind-hearted and good-natured, and he quickly becomes a favorite among the town's residents. Alex Etel plays Harry's son, Harold, who is fascinated by the people of Cranford and spends much of his time observing their lives.

Philip Glenister plays Mr Carter, the owner of the town's largest farm. He is a shrewd businessman, but he has a soft spot for the people of Cranford. Dean Lennox Kelly plays Tom Bakers, a suitor for Miss Matty's affections. Kimberley Nixon plays Sophy, the daughter of a poor family who becomes Miss Matty's maid.

Other notable cast members include Greg Wise, Adrian Scarborough, John Bowe, Selina Griffiths, Francesca Annis, Barbara Flynn, Simon Woods, Emma Fielding, and Lisa Dillon. Each actor brings depth and nuance to their characters, making the world of Cranford feel rich and alive.

Overall, Cranford is a beautifully crafted historical drama that explores the complexities of life in Victorian England. With its talented ensemble cast and evocative setting, the show is a must-watch for fans of British period dramas.

Cranford is a series that ran for 2 seasons (8 episodes) between November 18, 2007 and on BBC