Watch Lark Rise to Candleford

Lark Rise to Candleford is a captivating period drama set in the English countryside during the late 19th century. Spanning four seasons, the series tells the story of two communities, Lark Rise and Candleford, and the lives of the people who inhabit them. At the heart of the show is the character of Laura (played by Olivia Hallinan), a young girl who is sent to work as an apprentice at the post office in Candleford. Through her eyes, we see the stark contrasts between the two communities. Lark Rise is a small village, where people live in close-knit communities and close to the land. In contrast, Candleford is a bustling market town, where commerce and industry reign supreme.

Laura soon finds herself caught up in the dramas of both communities. In Lark Rise, she is drawn to the strong sense of community, and she forms close relationships with her fellow villagers. At the same time, she is fascinated by the energy and excitement of Candleford, where she becomes embroiled in the lives of the other shopkeepers and learns about the cut-throat world of business.

The show is full of rich characters, each with their own stories and struggles. Among the most memorable are the fiercely independent Queenie (Linda Bassett) and her daughter Twister (Claudie Blakley), the kindly postmaster Dorcas (Julia Sawalha), and the star-crossed lovers Thomas (Mark Heap) and Margaret (Gabrielle Drake).

One of the recurring themes throughout the series is the tension between tradition and progress. This is exemplified by the conflict between Lark Rise and Candleford, with the former representing the old-fashioned way of life, while the latter is a beacon of modernity. The tension is also reflected in the personal lives of the characters, as they grapple with the difficult choices that come with change.

The show also explores issues such as class, gender, and family dynamics. It delves into the struggles of working-class families trying to make ends meet, women fighting for their rights, and the complexities of familial relationships in a time when duty and obligation were paramount.

The production values of Lark Rise to Candleford are stunning, transporting viewers back in time with its beautiful costumes, intricate sets, and sweeping landscapes. The show has a warm, nostalgic feel, with its evocative score and charmingly old-fashioned storytelling.

Overall, Lark Rise to Candleford is a timeless tale of love, loss, and the struggle to find one's place in the world. With its richly drawn characters and thought-provoking themes, it has won a legion of fans over the years and remains a beloved classic of British television.

Lark Rise to Candleford is a series that is currently running and has 4 seasons (40 episodes). The series first aired on January 13, 2008.