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Clayhanger

TV series

Clayhanger

6/ 10· 2197660 min1 season · 26 episodes
Drama

Clayhanger is a British television drama based on Arnold Bennett's novel series of the same name, published between 1910 and 1918, dramatised by Douglas Livingstone for ITV. Produced by Associated Television, the 26-episode programme is a coming-of-age story set in 19th century England. Edwin Clayhanger aspires to be an architect but is expected to join his father's printing business. His personal growth, eventual acceptance of the family business, and his romantic entanglement with Hilda Lessways are explored. Clayhanger was ITV's longest-ever drama at the time. While some found the pacing slow, it was nonetheless praised for its faithful adaptation, excellent acting, and atmospheric sets.

Created by
Douglas Livingstone

Seasons and episodes

1 season · 26 episodes

Ended
1

Season 1

26 episodesJanuary 1, 1976
Open season page
  1. 1
    S1 E1

    Last of a Schoolboy

    Jan 1, 197660 min

    July 1872. It is Edwin Clayhanger's last day at school. Everyone expects that he will enter his father's printing business, but Edwin has very different ideas about his future.

  2. 2
    S1 E2

    The Architect

    Jan 8, 197660 min

    Edwin becomes a hero - he wins his fathers admiration, but is no nearer to the realisation of his own ambitions to become an architect.

  3. 3
    S1 E3

    HIlda

    Jan 15, 197660 min

    Edwin has written to his father reminding him that he wants to train as an architect. Darius is curious, while Edwin realises that a summons from his aunt means the battle has come to a head...

  4. 4
    S1 E4

    The Five Towns Chronicle and Turnhill Guardian

    Jan 22, 197660 min

    While Edwin continues to work as an assistant at his father's printing works, eyebrows are raised when Hilda Lessways becomes the first woman in the Five Towns to learn shorthand - in order to work for George Cannon.

  5. 5
    S1 E5

    Sin and Romance

    Jan 29, 197660 min

    Hilda receives a telegram from London informing her that her mother is ill. Instead of leaving at once, she continues to work on the first edition of Cannon's newspaper.

  6. 6
    S1 E6

    Escape to Bleakridge

    Feb 5, 197660 min

    Hilda's feeling of responsibility for her mother's death has led her to a nervous breakdown. While still recovering in Miss Gailey's boarding house, she hears that Cannon is insisting on visiting her.

Starring

Frequently asked questions

Where can I watch Clayhanger?
Clayhanger is not currently listed on a streaming service in the US. Use the country picker on the page to check other markets.
How many seasons of Clayhanger are there?
Clayhanger has 1 season and 26 episodes. Status: Ended.
Will there be a new season of Clayhanger?
Clayhanger has ended; no new episodes are scheduled. The final episode aired on June 24, 1976.
Who stars in Clayhanger?
Clayhanger stars Peter McEnery, Janet Suzman, Thelma Whiteley, Louise Purnell, Joyce Redman.

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