A Horseman Riding By is a 13-part BBC television serial produced by Ken Riddington, and adapted by Arden Winch, Alexander Baron, and John Wiles from R.F. Delderfield's 1966-68 historical novel series of the same name. Having been invalided out of the Boer War, Paul Craddock buys Shallowford, a manor house and estate in Devon, with money from his late father's scrapyard business. He soon becomes a much-respected 'Squire' determined to treat all his tenant farmers fairly, unlike his predecessor.
Paul Craddock answers an advertisement and arrives in Devon, not realising he has made the most momentous journey of his life.
Paul has achieved his aim - Shallowford House is his. Now he must learn his job of being squire. John Rudd is a help and so, in different ways, are Claire Derwent and Grace Lovell.
Paul has married Grace Lovell. Will Codsall also has marriageon his mind, but with a mother like Arabella he needs a lot of help.
When Grace returns from London there is tragedy in the valley and Paul has a difficult decision to make.
The relationship between Grace and Paul grows worse, particularly when Paul suggests Claire Derwent becomes nanny to their child.
With Grace gone, Claire becomes indispensable to Paul and when Smut Potter plays a dangerous game, Claire is there to help. Lloyd George speaks in the valley.
Nine years have passed and Paul has been married to Claire for seven years.
The Great War hits the valley. Will Codsall is the first man to be called up. The war fever spreads quickly, taking everyone in its wake even John Rudd.
Will Codsall, back on leave, causes a lot of trouble. Claire and Rose both have emotional decisions to make.
The valley has its first conscientious objector and most of the locals don't approve. Sydney Codsall, now a solicitor, visits Paul and tries to involve him in a dubious deal.
Paul has joined up. Shallowford is now a convalescent home and very crowded. John Rudd suggests that Claire should move out. Elinor Codsall has a German POW to help.
Penultimate episode of the series. The Potter twins have two new admirers.
With Paul missing and the army having vacated Shallowford, Will Codsall sets out to buy the valley.
