| Turn of the century London. A city of horse-drawn cabs, of gaslights and
splendid houses, of top hats, frock coats and sweeping skirts. A city on the cusp of a new
era, a place of great wealth and greater poverty, of aristocrats and servants. Into this heady world steps Louisa Leyton, a lowly cook determined to make her mark on society. Based on the true story of one of Britain's most remarkable women--Rosa Lewis, owner of the renowned Cavendish Hotel--THE DUCHESS OF DUKE STREET traces Louisa's ascent to the pinnacle of London's social world, propelled by her culinary skills, beauty and connections. Among the BBC's most acclaimed series of all time, it faithfully documents this fascinating period against a backdrop of fine food, exciting company, romance and intrigue. Starring Gemma Jones (Sense and Sensibility) and created by John Hawkesworth (Upstairs, Downstairs), it is a rich and immensely satisfying production, perfectly capturing the spirit of a memorable time and one unforgettable woman. |