Miss Matty's house is full of life and bustle with the addition of baby Tilly, daughter of her maid Martha. The new railway looms, five miles outside Cranford, to Captain Brown's great displeasure. Meanwhile, Harry Gregson is sent away to school, and set on a course that will test him severely. Tragedy strikes Cranford when two prominent local figures pass away.

The progress of the railway has hit another obstacle, until Miss Matty gets involved.

A surprise wedding between Captain Brown and Lady Glenmire causes a fracture of old friendships.. Harry, who has run away from school and stowed away in a freight wagon, is found on the brink of death by Miss Galindo who fights to save him. The Assembly Rooms are returned to their former glory and a sun-kissed performer, Signor Brunoni, stuns the captivated townspeople.