Among the surrounding farms and woodlands of the idyllic village of Mellstock, Dorset, a love story grows between local boy Dick Dewy and a new arrival, beautiful schoolteacher Fancy Day.

As the seasons change and Fancy becomes part of the community, the young schoolmistress attracts the attention of many likely suitors, including wealthy landowner Farmer Shiner and local vicar Reverend Maybold. When marriage proposals from all three men follow, Fancy is torn. She must make a decision of either the head or the heart.

Will true love win out or will the social traditions of Victorian England determine Fancy's future?