The series is available to watch on Channel 4’s streaming service and is based on Mary Wesley’s novel of the same name
Lovers of period drama are in for a real delight as a captivating Second World War series is now available to stream at no cost whatsoever.
Channel 4 is the proud broadcaster of this gem, which first graced television screens back in the early 90s and even snagged a BAFTA nomination for Best Drama Serial in 1993. The narrative unfolds within the picturesque confines of Helena Cuthbertson’s Cornish country abode, with the series’ name inspired by a scenic stretch of land between her house and the coastal cliffs where pivotal moments occur.
Cornwall’s reputation as a prime setting for exceptional period dramas remains unchallenged. The role of Helena Cuthbertson is portrayed by none other than Felicity Kendal of The Good Life fame, with Toby Stephens as Oliver Ansty, Jennifer Ehle as Calypso, and Tara Fitzgerald as Polly.
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Spanning from just before the outbreak of the Second World War to its aftermath in the mid-1980s, The Camomile Lawn has earned acclaim from enthusiasts as “ingenious”.
Mary Wesley’s novel kicks off with a family gathering in Cornwall during the tranquil summer preceding the global conflict, reports Cornwall Live.
When the family reconvenes for a funeral almost fifty years on, they come to terms with the profound effects the war had on their lives.
Wesley was spurred to pen The Camomile Lawn following the passing of her second husband, an event that left her in financial ruin.
Drawing from her own experiences, parts of the book reflect Wesley’s formative years, with the Cornish house mirroring Boskenna – the historic settlement – where she spent considerable time during her younger days.
Audiences expressed their views on the adaptation, with Antony Taylor declaring: “Simple and ingenious story, wonderful cast, perfect direction and a script full of sparkle. Watch it and love it.”
Drawing in over seven million viewers during its debut broadcast, The Camomile Lawn became Channel 4’s highest-rated drama of all time – a milestone it maintained as of 2022.
One admirer commented on IMDb: “The Camomile Lawn is one of my favourite British TV adaptations.”
Notmicro described it as “Compulsively watchable and great fun”, continuing: “I’d been curious for years to see this thing, both because of the very interesting actors, and the period setting.
“Now I’ve just watched the British DVD, and found that its absolutely brilliantly done, and compulsively watchable.
“It takes some time getting accustomed to the affected and presumably somewhat archaic upper-middle-class accents assumed by some of the actors.”
The Camomile Lawn is available to watch on Channel 4’s streaming service.