Shirley Valentine Bradshaw, portrayed by Pauline Collins, is a 42-year-old housewife residing in suburban Liverpool, England. One evening, as she prepares chips and eggs for her husband Joe, played by Bernard Hill, she finds herself engaging in an unusual yet heartfelt dialogue with her kitchen wall. She knows that Joe will be displeased that they're not having steak for dinner.
Earlier that day, Shirley's quirky neighbor, Julia McKenzie, asked for her assistance in feeding their bloodhound while she and her husband are away, mentioning that they are vegans—even for their dog. Realizing how starving the dog must be for meat, Shirley decides to serve him the steak she intended for her husband’s dinner, fully aware that Joe wouldn’t find it funny.
As Shirley reflects on her marriage over flashbacks, she recalls a time when she and Joe shared laughter and joy during their early years together. They splashed white paint on each other while painting their new kitchen—memories that now feel like ages ago. Amidst the daily routine of life and with their children now grown, Shirley finds herself yearning for more but is uncertain of where her journey might lead.
In the present, when Joe arrives home and discovers that dinner isn't ready, his frustration mounts. He finds Shirley speaking to the wall about her desire to enjoy a glass of wine by the seaside at sunset. Rather than responding to his anger, she suggests he watch television, continuing her conversation with the wall.
Previously, Shirley had lunch with her divorced friend Alison Steadman, who excitedly announces that she won a two-week trip to Greece for two and invites Shirley along. Although Shirley protests that she cannot go, Jane remains insistent. Looking longingly at a forgotten Greek travel poster hidden in her pantry, she grapples with how to bring up the possibility with Joe.
In another flashback, a younger version of Shirley (played by Gillian Kearney) recalls her rebellious school days, dreaming of becoming a flight attendant, but feeling overshadowed by the beautiful Marjorie, portrayed by Joanna Lumley. A serendipitous encounter with Marjorie years later leads to an unexpected connection, where they bond over their shared insecurities and desires, illuminating to Shirley the need to pursue her own happiness.
Distractions arise when Joe storms back into the kitchen, furious about the dinner mishap. A clash ensues, leaving Shirley smeared in egg and declaring her intention to go to Greece. Joe dismisses her ambitions and leaves, fueling Shirley’s determination. While shopping, she bumps into Gillian in the lingerie section and surprises her by revealing plans to buy seductive lingerie for her imagined lover in Greece.
On the day of the trip, her daughter Tracie Bennett shows up unexpectedly, throwing Shirley’s plans into chaos. However, with encouragement from her friend, she ultimately decides to go, leaving a note for Joe on the poster.
In Greece, things take an adventurous turn when she meets Costas, played by Tom Conti, at a local taverna. Their connection grows deep as Shirley explores the island, partakes in conversations, and even indulges in the freedom of skinny-dipping. The beauty of the island captivates her, and in an intimate moment aboard Costas' boat, she discovers a new side of herself and her feelings for him.
Back in England, Joe grapples with his emotions and, in a rare moment of sincerity, admits to the wall that he truly loves Shirley. Meanwhile, Costas and Shirley share experiences that lead to self-discovery amidst the enchanting backdrop of Greece. However, as the holiday progresses, decisions loom—should she return home or carve out a new life for herself?
Ultimately, Shirley faces the reality of her situation at the airport, torn between the past and the future. A staggering realization hits her upon witnessing Costas seemingly moving on with another woman, leading to a transformative decision to take charge of her destiny by running the taverna and finding her own path.
As Shirley relishes her newfound independence, Joe's attempts to bring her home become a frequent occurrence. When their son, Brian, convinces Joe to visit Greece, he is met with a surprise when he finally sees Shirley again, setting the stage for a poignant reunion.
The film culminates at a lovely table by the sea where Shirley and Joe find a moment of togetherness, sipping wine as the sunset paints the sky, symbolizing a new chapter in their lives.
