By The Sword Divided

Season 1

This classic period drama series follows the fortunes of the aristocratic Lacey family, living peacefully in Arnescote Castle until the onset of the English Civil War in 1640. Sir Martin Lacey, the head of the family, is steadfastly loyal to the King. However the family is torn apart when his eldest daughter Anne weds John Fletcher - son of a merchant family who support the forces of Cromwell.

Where to Watch Season 1

10 Episodes

Gather Ye Rosebuds
E1
Gather Ye RosebudsThere is great excitement surrounding the arrival of John Fletcher at Arnescote Castle. His father and Lord Lacey have a heated discussion about the wedding dowry.
This War Without an Enemy
E2
This War Without an EnemyThe King dramatically makes several arrests for treason in the House of Commons. While out riding Lucinda meets Prince Rupert on his way to visit Sir Martin.
The Sound of Drums
E3
The Sound of DrumsAnne returns to the castle to collect her belongings and has a sad parting with her father. Lord Lacey is badly wounded fighting and a cousin, Susan Protheroe, arrives seeking refuge.
A Silver Moon
E4
A Silver MoonLucinda is rude to the King because of her sense of justice - she then embarks on a successful adventure posing as 'Luke' Lacey and redeems herself.
The Edge of the Sword
E5
The Edge of the SwordArnescote is commandeered by Captain Marsh, a Cavalry Officer for Cromwell's Parliament. Sir Martin feels let down by the King and cousin Susan betrays the family.
Outrageous Fortune
E6
Outrageous FortuneDick Skinner returns to Arnescote with tales of pillaging in Swinford. Tom goes there and brings his sister Anne home despite her angry protests. Lucinda receives advice from the King.
A Sea of Dangers
E7
A Sea of DangersTom is anxious about the castle's security and calls for more diligence. Anne gives birth then bids a sad farewell to Arnescote. Hugh Brandon performs a 'valiant commission' for Sir Martin.
Ring of Fire
E8
Ring of FireArnescote is surrounded and is under siege by the Roundheads. Sam Saltmarsh brings shame on his family by being a turncoat and Susan Protheroe is re-acquainted with Colonel Marsh.
Ashes to Ashes
E9
Ashes to AshesJune 1647 "Not Peace, But a Sword" The war ended. The king has lost and been detained. Lacey's rebellious daughter Anne stood out before her father, her brother, her family and sided with Parliament and is now the mistress of the family's Anescott Castle. Anescott welcomes its new owner and attempts to heal the wounds of the war, but the army's mutiny threatens the peace between the king and parliament.
Not Peace But a Sword
E10
Not Peace But a SwordJune 1647. The War is over. The Fletchers settle into the castle, but Roundheads and Mistress Protheroe are ever present. Leveller soldiers demand back pay and Parliament for all People. There is rumour of what is to be done with the King.