The beloved family period drama The Hardacres returns to Channel 5 tonight, with new episodes set in 1895 and a new character poised to cause disruption. Fans have hailed the series as a "breath of fresh air" and a "proper standout" in the genre.
What to Expect in Season 2
The heart-warming tale of social climbing, filmed in Dublin and County Wicklow, now enters the late 1890s, an era when electric lighting was only beginning to emerge. The new episodes introduce fresh concepts, romances, and obstacles, airing every Thursday from 14 May.
The star-packed cast includes returning favourites Julie Graham, Claire Cooper, and Liam McMahon, alongside a newcomer, Lady Imelda Hansen, who threatens to disrupt the Hardacre family's life.
Plot Details
Channel 5's description states: "It's 1895, and modernity is arriving at Hardacre Hall – bringing with it electricity, new ideas and new relationships. Hungry for new challenges, Mary champions adult education, while Sam takes steps amid a looming recession to expand the family business, not least while wondering if Joe is truly ready to take the reins. A chance encounter starts an intense romance for Liza. Harry's passion for education is reignited with the help of a new tutor, and Joe embraces married life with Betsy. However, their biggest challenge is from a formidable new arrival, Lady Imelda Hansen – the mother of their neighbour Emma."
Critical Acclaim
The period piece first premiered in 2024 and garnered widespread praise. One IMDb reviewer described it as a "breath of fresh air" and a "proper standout in a genre that can feel very samey." They added: "The Hardacres is honestly such a breath of fresh air compared to most period dramas right now. I love how Mary and Sam feel like genuine equals, not in a forced modern twist way, but in a way that shows couples could have found their own balance. And the show makes a brilliant point that things we call modern problems, like the pressure on young women to look a certain way, absolutely existed long before Instagram. Overall, it's heartfelt, grounded, and genuinely different."
Another fan called it a "brilliant period series," stating: "It's light-hearted yet it has plenty of emotion to keep you wanting more." A third admirer dubbed it "the best show on TV," remarking: "A true crowd pleaser with everything you need in a good drama. Highs, lows, laughter and tears – truly fantastic acting from all the cast. I want more of this with the same cast and more great storylines from the Hardacre family."
The Hardacres season 2 airs on Channel 5 from May 14 at 9pm.
