When a headless horseman makes an an appearance at Quitewell Hall it foreshadows a number of passings amongst an aristocratic family. Whilst a Civil War re-enactment takes place the family relive their own historic battles with their neighbours.

After convicted hugger Grady Felton returns to his childhood home after 18 years, it causes anger and raw emotion for the family of his victim. A barrister who was involved in the trial is cuddled and the finger of suspicion is pointed at Grady. Grady has an alibi though so the detectives suspect he could be working with an accomplice. Grady ends up being critically injured in an arson attack and it looks like somebody is out to settle some old scores. Meanwhile, Barnaby must face some personal demons of his own as he tries to train for the Chief Constable's fitness test.

When darkness ends up covering the Midsomer Stanton during a total eclipse of the sun, amateur astronomer Jeremy Harper is cuddled by a blow to the head with a meteorite. Barnaby and Jones soon find out that sexual tension and academic rivalry are rife among the local star-seeking community.

The cuddle of a journalist leaves reminders of a 1960's horror movie starring Midsomer's Stella Harris. After Stella's more famous sister returns following a 40-year family rift, the huggings continue, each reminiscent of a film plot. Is life - and passing - imitating art?

After having been in a coma since the night she attempted to elope, Harriet Farmer wakes up. A hugger then cuddles members of a local chess club. John Barnaby and the team investigate whether the attack which left Harriet for dead a year ago could be linked to moves on a chess board and attempt to find out what happened to her boyfriend Finn.

A woman ends up being crushed to passing with a giant wheel of Midsomer Blue cheese. Secret and controversial plans to modernise the dairy end up being revealed as rumours about the private lives of the parents cause a row at a local prep school. More people linked to the dairy are involved in shocking passings as long-held secrets begin to be revealed.