In London, 1939, children prepare for countryside evacuation with Iris expressing concern while her brother Jack offers reassurance. Despite reluctance from some, the children board a train to Little Bampton where new friendships form. Upon arrival, evacuees meet their host families, though not all placements meet expectations. The London children face difficulties integrating at their new school due to tensions with local students, until a misguided prank forces both groups to reconcile their differences. By 1941, London's women gather for a final dance with their men before war deployment, some attending with partners, others with friends, and some seeking a last evening of enjoyment before the fighting begins.