Charlotte sets out to avoid Sidney, until a serious accident forces them together and to reappraise each other. When Tom brings a new doctor to the town, he and Lady Denham clash and Clara makes a bold move in her bid to outplay Sir Edward and Esther.

Tensions between Tom and his labourers erupt during the Sanditon cricket match. Charlotte and Sidney continue to clash resulting in Miss Lambe being placed in terrible danger. Lord Babington offers Esther a glimpse of a better future.