Keeping Up Appearances season 5 episode 4 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Hyacinth plans a sophisticated riverside picnic, reminiscent of her elegant candlelight suppers. Invitations are sent, despite the reluctance of neighbors Elizabeth and Emmet, and the vicar. On the picnic day, various comedic mishaps occur, including a dredger occupying their spot and challenges navigating a lock. The group, led by an undeterred Hyacinth, never actually enjoys the picnic as planned. The episode concludes humorously with Hyacinth falling into the river, highlighting her often overbearing yet comical character.

Full Episode S05E04 Recap

### Hyacinth and Richard's Drive in the Countryside - Hyacinth and Richard are driving in the countryside, enjoying the scenery and planning a leisurely day. - Despite Richard's complaints about the drive and Hyacinth's nagging, they proceed with their outing. ### The Idea of a Riverside Picnic - Hyacinth gets the idea to hold a riverside picnic, envisioning it as an elegant affair akin to her candlelight suppers. ### Preparations for the Picnic - Back at home, Hyacinth starts planning the picnic, excitedly looking up the word "riparian" to describe the event. - She decides to issue invitations for her "Waterside Supper with Riparian Entertainments." ### Hyacinth's Invitations and Responses - Hyacinth sends out invitations, including to her neighbor Elizabeth and her brother-in-law Emmet, though they are reluctant to attend. - The vicar, another invitee, tries to decline but is overpowered by Hyacinth's enthusiasm. ### The Day of the Riverside Picnic - On the day of the picnic, Hyacinth is overly prepared, with Richard and the vicar helping with logistics. - Hyacinth's sister Violet calls, unable to attend due to her husband's drunken state. ### Journey to the Picnic Spot - The group, including Elizabeth and Emmet, sets off to the picnic spot, encountering various comedic mishaps along the way. - Hyacinth remains undeterred, constantly urging the group forward despite the challenges. ### The Unsuccessful Picnic - The picnic spot is occupied by a dredger, forcing Hyacinth to improvise by commandeering a boat. - After more misadventures, including navigating a lock and rowing the boat, the group never actually gets to have the picnic. - The episode ends with Hyacinth accidentally falling into the river, much to the amusement of onlookers. ### Themes and Character Dynamics - The episode humorously showcases Hyacinth's overbearing nature and her obsession with social status and appearances. - Richard's patient tolerance and the vicar's reluctant involvement highlight the comedic dynamics between the characters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main setting of this episode?

The countryside and a riverside location.

Why does Hyacinth want to hold a riverside picnic?

She envisions it as an elegant event, similar to her candlelight suppers.

How does Hyacinth describe her event?

As a "Waterside Supper with Riparian Entertainments."

What is Richard's attitude during the drive in the countryside?

He is complaining and seems reluctant.

Who are some of the guests invited to the picnic?

Elizabeth, Emmet, and the vicar.

Do Elizabeth and Emmet want to attend the picnic?

No, they are reluctant but feel pressured by Hyacinth.

What happens when the vicar tries to decline the invitation?

He is unable to get a word in as Hyacinth excitedly assumes his acceptance.

Why can't Hyacinth's sister Violet attend the picnic?

Her husband is drunk and unable to drive her to the event.

What issue do they encounter at the picnic spot?

A dredger occupies the spot, so they can't set up there.

How does Hyacinth react to the dredger at the picnic spot?

She decides to commandeer a boat to find another spot.

What happens in the lock during their boat journey?

They have to wait for the water level to drop, causing a delay.

Does the group eventually have the picnic?

No, they never get to have the picnic.

How does the episode end?

With Hyacinth accidentally falling into the river.

What is the main theme of the episode?

Hyacinth's obsession with social status and her overbearing nature.

How do other characters typically react to Hyacinth's plans?

They are often reluctant and overwhelmed by her enthusiasm.

Keeping Up Appearances season 5 episode 4

A Riverside Picnic