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The Best Episodes of Downton Abbey Season 2

Every episode of Downton Abbey Season 2 ranked from best to worst. Discover the Best Episodes of Downton Abbey Season 2!

A chronicle of the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the post-Edwardian era—with great events in history having an effect on...
Genre:Drama
Network:ITV1

Season 2 Ratings Summary

"Episode 1" is the best rated episode of "Downton Abbey" season 2. It scored 8.5/10 based on 2442 votes. Directed by Ashley Pearce and written by Julian Fellowes, it aired on 9/18/2011. This episode is rated 0.4 points higher than the second-best, "Episode 2".

  • Episode 1
    8.5/102,442 votes

    #1 - Episode 1

    Season 2 Episode 1 - Aired 9/18/2011

    The Great War unsettles life at Downton and surprising news about Matthew rocks the family. New maid Ethel irritates O'Brien - and Bates returns with devastating news for Anna.

    Director: Ashley Pearce

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 2
    8.1/102,151 votes

    #2 - Episode 2

    Season 2 Episode 2 - Aired 9/25/2011

    Carson is finding it tough maintaining standards in the house, and the suicide of a young officer prompts Isobel to suggest converting Downton Abbey into a convalescent hospital.

    Director: Ashley Pearce

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 3
    8.1/102,090 votes

    #3 - Episode 3

    Season 2 Episode 3 - Aired 10/2/2011

    After Downton is turned into a convalescent home for wounded officers, Matthew brings a general to visit, but Branson has a surprise in store. And is Lavinia hiding something?

    Director: Andy Goddard

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 4
    8.3/102,104 votes

    #4 - Episode 4

    Season 2 Episode 4 - Aired 10/9/2011

    Tensions flare between Isobel and Cora. Ethel's flirtation with Major Bryant lands her in hot water. There is worrying news about Matthew. Branson declares his feelings for Sybil.

    Director: Brian Kelly

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 5
    8.5/102,129 votes

    #5 - Episode 5

    Season 2 Episode 5 - Aired 10/16/2011

    Robert receives some shocking news from the front. Daisy's relationship with William moves faster than she would like. Vera threatens to expose old secrets.

    Director: Brian Kelly

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 6
    8.0/102,076 votes

    #6 - Episode 6

    Season 2 Episode 6 - Aired 10/23/2011

    Carlisle threatens to ruin Mary if she jilts him. A major comes to stay - but is he really who he claims to be? Bates learns that Vera has succeeded in scuppering the divorce.

    Director: Andy Goddard

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 7
    8.2/102,074 votes

    #7 - Episode 7

    Season 2 Episode 7 - Aired 10/30/2011

    How long can Sybil and Branson keep their secret? Carlisle puts Anna in a difficult position, Bates is left reeling from the news about Vera, and Thomas embarks on a new scheme.

    Director: James Strong

    Writer: Julian Fellowes

  • Episode 8
    8.7/102,233 votes

    #8 - Episode 8

    Season 2 Episode 8 - Aired 11/6/2011

    With the wedding approaching there is excitement in the air, but will Branson's plans rattle everyone? A decisive Anna forces Bates to think about their future.

    Director: James Strong

    Writer: Julian Fellowes