The Edwardian Country House

An Edwardian Country House in Scotland is brought back to life. One family, the Olliff-Coopers, will take on the mantle of privilege and 12 individuals the yoke of service. For the next three months, they’ve volunteered to immerse themselves in a world of social inequality and rigid class distinctions as they move through time from 1905 to 1914.

Sir John and Lady Olliff-Cooper set about using their new assets, including their country house, their male servants, and their French chef, to maximum effect with the most powerful social weapon - the dinner party.

The atmosphere in the Edwardian Country House is tense as the 19 volunteers continue to come to terms with their new Edwardian lives. Upstairs, plans are afoot to host a fundraiser for the local hospital. But the benevolent masters of Manderson may be missing hardships closer to home. Amongst the staff, there are serious complaints about working hours and living conditions.

Hunting, shooting, and fishing are the mainstay of country house life and the master has no desire to duck out of these Edwardian activities. While the men get back to nature, the women at home begin to question their role in Edwardian society.

The Empire is at its height and as a celebration of British achievement abroad, the family is to host a glorious Empire Ball. This means dancing practice, the creation of beautiful costumes, and more work in the kitchen. As the glittering Ball gets under way, how long can power remain concentrated in the hands of the few?

Emotions are running high in Manderston as the cast’s Edwardian life is drawing to a close and everyone has to face up to going back to his or her normal life in the 21st century. After three months exposure to nothing but Edwardian culture, the family and staff consider what their Edwardian future might have been.