Matthew Macfadyen and Hayley Atwell star in this four-part drama miniseries adapted from E.M. Forster's novel. When Helen Schlegel (Philippa Coulthard) becomes engaged to one of the materialistic Wilcox family, the Schlegels attempt to convince her to reconsider. However, despite Helen breaking off the engagement, the lives of the two differing families soon become increasingly intertwined as Margaret Schlegel (Atwell) renews her friendship with the ailing Ruth Wilcox (Julia Ormond), who decides to bequeath her house, Howards End, to her. Nevertheless, upon Mrs Wilcox's death her family close ranks and refuse to inform Margaret of her inheritance. When the widowed Henry Wilcox (Macfadyen) then begins to take a romantic interest in Margaret, the ensuing relationship leads to further complications and ultimately tragedy.