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The Best Episodes of Downton Abbey Season 1

Every episode of Downton Abbey Season 1 ranked from best to worst. Discover the Best Episodes of Downton Abbey Season 1!

Binge this in 6h 16m·Peaking at 8.8/10
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Episode Rankings

  1. #1 Fan Favorite
    Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 7 - Episode 7
    8.8/10(2811 votes)

    S1:E7

    Cora's pregnancy throws the inheritance issue into doubt. Matthew must wait for an answer to his wedding proposal. O'Brien discovers more compromising information about Bates. Thomas leaves.

    Director:Brian Percival
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  2. Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 6 - Episode 6
    8.5/10(2708 votes)

    S1:E6

    Sybil puts herself in danger when a fight breaks out. Sybil's sisters notice Matthew's feelings for her. Mary is surprised by a marriage proposal. Bates clears his name over the missing wine but resigns rather than name the real culprit.

    Director:Brian Percival
    Writers:Julian Fellowes, Tina Pepler

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  3. Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 3 - Episode 3
    8.4/10(3055 votes)

    S1:E3

    Cora's tries to set up Mary with Evelyn Napier, who falls for his friend instead, with significant consequences for the household. Bates takes action to help cure his limp.

    Director:Ben Bolt
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  4. Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 5 - Episode 5
    8.4/10(2711 votes)

    S1:E5

    Isobel finds herself at odds with Violet. Mary is introduced to a potential suitor but wants to be with Matthew. Anna works out who stole a valuable snuff box. O'Brien plans a way for Edith to get even with Mary.

    Director:Brian Kelly
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  5. Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 1 - Episode 1
    8.3/10(3933 votes)

    S1:E1

    After the death of the heir, Violet wishes that Robert's daughter Mary could inherit Downton Abbey.

    Director:Brian Percival
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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  6. Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 2 - Episode 2
    8.2/10(3130 votes)

    S1:E2

    Matthew Crawley and his mother Isobel arrive at Downton, and have difficulty settling in. Carson is mortified when confronted by his past. Violet attempts to promote a match between Matthew and Mary. Isobel is elected to serve on the hospital board.

    Director:Ben Bolt
    Writer:Julian Fellowes

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    The 20 BEST Episodes of Downton Abbey

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  7. Downton Abbey Season 1 Episode 4 - Episode 4
    8.1/10(2798 votes)

    S1:E4

    Mrs Hughes finds herself the focus of speculation when she meets a former suitor who makes her question her position. Violet and Isobel clash over a medical ailment affecting Molesley. Carson is concerned there is a thief at work in the grounds.

    Director:Brian Kelly
    Writers:Julian Fellowes, Shelagh Stephenson

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Season 1 Ratings Summary

"Episode 7" is the best rated episode of Downton Abbey season 1. It scored 8.8/10 from 2,811 votes. Directed by Brian Percival and written by Julian Fellowes, it aired on November 7, 2010. This episode is rated 0.3 points higher than the second-best, "Episode 6".