In 1935, beleaguered Bournemouth mother Louisa Durrell decides to uproot her family and build a new life on the sun-drenched island of Corfu. However, with money problems and four unruly children to care for, even a new start might not be enough to banish her troubles.

Leslie falls in with a bad crowd and ends up being falsely accused of armed robbery, prompting Louisa to take desperate measures to save him. Margo takes a shine to a gardener at the Villa Mavrodaki, Captain Creech returns, and the family realises the extent of Gerry's passion for animals when he turns his bedroom into a centre for scientific learning.

The family receives a telegram from Larry, who is in Athens for a short trip, announcing that he has a friend coming to stay – Prince Jeejeebuoy. Concerned about Gerry's education, Louisa also seeks advice from Theo.

Louisa's plan for a family picnic to Kalami goes awry when she inadvertently invites Spiros's wife. The Durrells are surprised to discover Captain Creech's new business venture.