The History of Mr Polly tells the bitter sweet story of an ordinary man with a big heart and big dreams who risks everything for a chance of happiness.

Set in Kent in 1910, Alfred Polly (Lee Evans) is the owner of a bankrupt Gentleman's Outfitters, trapped in a joyless marriage to wife Mitiam (Anne-Marie Duff). A dreamer, rather than a do-er, Polly married a man woman he doesn't love and is in a business he neither likes or understands. Somehow life has passed him by and he's desperate for a way out.

Determined to ensure he doesn't make any more mistakes Polly attempts to end his life - but fails in a spectacular twist of fate. Convinced it's a sign to make a fresh start, Polly leaves his old life behind and embarks on a pursuit of happiness with the delightful Nancy (Julie Graham).