Upon the death of King William IV, his 18-year-old niece, Princess Alexandrina Victoria of Kent, inherits the throne as Queen and finds herself tested by new responsibilities and conflicted loyalties.

As Lord Melbourne's popularity in the House wanes, the Tories eagerly await triumph. Victoria's uncle, the Duke of Cumberland, sees a chance to prey on her vulnerability and establish a co-regency.

King Leopold suggests Victoria consider Prince Albert as a suitable consort, which results in her being surrounded by suitors, though her determination to rule alone leaves her uncle suspicious.

Prince Albert arrives in England for the first time and he and Victoria take an instant dislike to one another. However, their disdain passes and an attraction grows - to Melbourne's dismay.

Melbourne warns Victoria that Parliament will not be happy to see her marry a German prince, a prediction that proves accurate when the Privy Council refuses to grant Albert a royal title.

Albert becomes involved in the anti-slavery movement. Skerrett faces a dilemma when she realizes that the only man who can save her cousin is the one she trusts least.