What Is What We Did on Our Holiday About?
The premise of What We Did on Our Holiday in 294 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the rolling, mist‑kissed Highlands of Scotland, a large, eclectic family converges to honor a patriarch’s milestone birthday. The celebration promises sunshine, sweeping vistas, and the usual chaos that comes when several generations share a cramped, historic house. Beneath the picturesque setting, the gathering becomes a delicate stage for unspoken tensions, as each relative brings their own hopes, grievances, and a healthy dose of affection for one another.
Doug McLeod arrives with his wife Abi, a couple whose recent separation lingers like a low‑hum of static. Their reunion is motivated as much by duty to the family as by a desire to keep the peace for their children. Across the hallway, Gavin—Doug’s brother—exudes a quiet competitiveness, hinting at deeper rivalries that have simmered for years. Their interactions are a blend of sibling banter and thinly veiled power struggles, setting a tone where humor and discomfort walk hand in hand.
The trio of youngsters—Lottie, the sharp‑eyed eldest, Mickey, the imaginative middle child, and Jess, the observant youngest—act as both mirrors and magnifiers. Their candid remarks and innocent curiosity serve to surface the adults’ hidden issues, turning ordinary family chatter into moments of awkward revelation. While the children are largely oblivious to the full weight of what they expose, their sincerity adds a fresh, sometimes unsettling perspective that keeps the atmosphere lively and unpredictable.
Overall, the film balances gentle comedy with poignant family drama, painting a portrait of a reunion that is as much about confronting private truths as it is about celebrating a life well‑lived. The Scottish backdrop, together with the ensemble’s witty repartee, creates a warm yet slightly uneasy mood, inviting viewers to wonder how far love, loyalty, and a bit of good‑natured mischief can go when a family is forced to face itself.
What Happens in What We Did on Our Holiday?
The complete story of What We Did on Our Holiday, from the first scene to the last, in 659 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 8 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
As Doug McLeod (David Tennant) and his wife Abi (Rosamund Pike) set out on a challenging adventure to celebrate Doug’s father Gordie (Billy Connolly)‘s 75th birthday in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, the heaviness of their tumultuous past weighs down upon them like a dense fog. The tension between them is unmistakable, reverberating from their recent separation caused by Doug’s infidelity. Although they have reunited for the sake of Gordie, the fragility of their relationship lingers in the air.
While battling through congested roads to transport their three children—Lottie (Emilia Jones), Mickey (Bobby Smalldridge), and Jess (Harriet Turnbull)—the family finds it increasingly difficult to leave their troubles behind. Lottie, struggling to trust her parents due to the recent turmoil, is forced to confront the web of lies that has entangled their lives.
Upon their arrival at Gavin McLeod (Ben Miller)‘s opulent mansion, an uncomfortable atmosphere prevails as Doug and Gavin engage in a subtle, yet fierce, competition for dominance. In the midst of it all, Gordie, despite the shadow of terminal illness hanging over him, maintains a playful spirit, urging his grandchildren to embrace life and shed their worries.
As preparations for the party continue, Gordie takes the children on an unexpected escapade to the beach, sharing that he has Viking ancestry. This revelation ignites Mickey’s imagination, while Gordie expresses his wish to be cremated and scattered at sea to prevent any disputes between Doug and Gavin after his passing.
Tragedy strikes unexpectedly when Gordie passes away peacefully. In a heart-wrenching moment, Lottie is left to inform her stunned family of the heartbreaking news. Instead of grieving openly, she retreats to the beach, where she finds her siblings grappling with their grandfather’s loss. Overwhelmed by a profound sense of respect for Gordie’s wishes, the three children construct a makeshift raft from their grandfather’s truck and send him off ablaze into the sea—a heart-rending tribute that mirrors Viking traditions.
As the flames engulf the raft, it becomes clear that Gordie’s departure has formed an unexpected bond within the family, their sorrow tempered by a newfound appreciation for life. Meanwhile, the bewildered adults are left to process a string of extraordinary events. Doug and Gavin take a poignant trip to the beach, where they are met with a sobering sight: Gordie’s beloved pick-up truck partially overtaken by the merciless tide. In that moment, Gavin, overwhelmed by the weight of their shared grief, collapses in Doug’s arms. Simultaneously, Abi and Margaret must face the task of breaking the devastating news to the assembled guests, who transition from shock to outrage.
In the aftermath, social services worker Agnes Chisholm (Celia Imrie) arrives to investigate the children’s conduct. Lottie’s honest reflections stir Agnes to consider removing the children from Doug and Abi’s custody. Meanwhile, the media hastily sensationalizes the incident, presenting the children in an unsympathetic light.
Amid this upheaval, Mickey and Jess accidentally discover a video that will forever change their perspective on Gavin and Margaret’s relationship. The candid footage reveals Margaret’s vulnerability as she lashes out at a fellow shopper—an eye-opening moment that underscores the challenges that can afflict even the most picture-perfect families. This shocking revelation triggers a wave of introspection within the household, as Doug and Abi implore the public to understand their children’s actions in a more compassionate light.
As the tide of public sentiment gradually shifts in their favor, Agnes ultimately concludes her investigation, allowing the children to remain under their parents’ care. In a poignant climax, Doug and Gavin, having set aside their previous animosity, come together to honor the memory of their beloved Gordie. Abi expresses her determination to keep her family rooted in their current home rather than uprooting them to Newcastle, paving the way for a civil divorce. As the credits roll, the extended family converges on a hill overlooking the beach, commemorating Gordie’s legacy, and in a joyous display of togetherness and laughter, they plunge into the waves below, celebrating both life and memory.
What We Did on Our Holiday Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Doug and Abi's Troubled Reunion” to “Celebration of Life”. 15 events name a place, across 4 locations.
- 1
Doug and Abi's Troubled Reunion
Doug McLeod and his wife Abi embark on a journey to celebrate Doug's father Gordie's 75th birthday. Despite their reunion, the tension from their recent separation due to Doug's infidelity hangs heavily over them.
Where:Unknown
- 2
Family Road Trip
The McLeod family sets off on a challenging road trip to the Scottish Highlands, navigating through congested roads while managing their three children. They struggle to leave behind their personal troubles, particularly impacting their daughter Lottie who has trust issues following her parents' separation.
Where:Scottish Highlands
- 3
Arrival at Gavin's Mansion
Upon arriving at Gavin McLeod's opulent mansion, an uneasy rivalry develops between Doug and Gavin. Gordie, however, maintains a playful spirit despite his terminal illness, encouraging his family to embrace life.
Where:Gavin's Mansion
- 4
Gordie's Beach Escapade
Gordie takes his grandchildren to the beach, sharing a fascinating story of his Viking ancestry. This story ignites Mickey's imagination while Gordie expresses his wish to be cremated at sea, sparking a profound discussion among the family.
Where:Beach
- 5
Gordie's Passing
Tragedy strikes when Gordie passes away peacefully, leaving the family devastated. Lottie faces the heartbreaking task of informing her parents and siblings about the loss, choosing to retreat to the beach afterward.
Where:Gavin's Mansion
- 6
A Heartfelt Tribute
In a touching tribute to Gordie, Lottie, Mickey, and Jess construct a raft from their grandfather's truck and send it ablaze into the sea. This Viking-style send-off symbolizes their respect for Gordie's wishes, bonding the siblings through their shared grief.
Where:Beach
- 7
Doug and Gavin's Moment of Grief
Doug and Gavin confront their grief at the beach, witnessing Gordie's truck partially engulfed by the tide. Overwhelmed, Gavin collapses in Doug's arms, momentarily dissolving their previous tensions amidst shared sorrow.
Where:Beach
- 8
Breaking the News to Guests
Abi and Margaret face the difficult task of informing the guests about Gordie's passing, transitioning the atmosphere from one of celebration to shock and outrage. The family dynamics shift as everyone grapples with the unexpected loss.
Where:Gavin's Mansion
- 9
Social Services Investigation
Agnes Chisholm, a social services worker, arrives to investigate the children's situation following the tragedy. Lottie's candid reflections during the interview raise concerns about their custody, putting added pressure on Doug and Abi.
Where:Gavin's Mansion
- 10
Discovery of Family Secrets
Mickey and Jess stumble across a revealing video that alters their perception of Gavin and Margaret's relationship. The footage highlights Margaret's struggles and deepens the family's understanding of their own conflicts.
Where:Unknown
Show the other 5 events of What We Did on Our Holiday Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Public Sentiment Shifts
As the media sensationalizes the incident, Doug and Abi advocate for compassion towards their children. Gradually, public opinion begins to shift, leading to a reconsideration of the investigation into their custody.
Where:Unknown
- 12
Resolution of the Investigation
Agnes concludes her investigation, allowing the children to stay with their parents. This decision brings temporary relief to Doug and Abi as they navigate their grief and family dynamics.
Where:Unknown
- 13
Honoring Gordie's Memory
Doug and Gavin, having set aside their rivalry, come together in respectful unity to honor Gordie's memory. This moment signifies a breakthrough in their strained relationship, promoting healing within the family.
Where:Beach
- 14
Abi's Decision
As the family reflects on their recent struggles, Abi expresses her desire to keep the family in their current home instead of moving to Newcastle, embracing the possibility of a civil divorce. This decision marks a pivotal moment in their path towards healing.
Where:Unknown
- 15
Celebration of Life
In a heartfelt moment, the extended family gathers on a hill overlooking the beach to celebrate Gordie's legacy. In a joyful display of togetherness, they plunge into the waves, honoring both life and memory with laughter and love.
Where:Beach
Who Are the Main Characters in What We Did on Our Holiday?
6 characters, among them Doug McLeod (David Tennant), Abi (Rosamund Pike) and Gordie (Billy Connolly): who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- DM
Doug McLeod (David Tennant)
Doug is portrayed as a conflicted father grappling with guilt and the complexities of his recent infidelity. His desire to support his father while mending his marriage adds layers to his character, as he struggles with the tension between his responsibilities and desires. Doug's journey involves acknowledging past mistakes and finding a path forward for his family.
- 👨👧👦 Fatherhood
- 💔 Infidelity
- 🤝 Reconciliation
- A(
Abi (Rosamund Pike)
Abi is a strong yet vulnerable mother navigating the challenges of her crumbling marriage. Torn between her feelings for Doug and the well-being of their children, she exhibits resilience as she strives to create a stable environment for her family. Abi's determination to keep her family united highlights her strength and love, even amid chaos.
- 👩👧👦 Motherhood
- ❤️ Love
- 🚪 Divorce
- G(
Gordie (Billy Connolly)
Gordie is a lively grandfather whose playful spirit masks the seriousness of his terminal illness. His whimsical nature and familial warmth leave a lasting impression on his grandchildren. By sharing stories from his past and his final wishes, he inspires his family to cherish their bonds and face life's challenges with courage.
- 👴 Grandfather
- 🌟 Wisdom
- ⚓ Viking ancestry
- L(
Lottie (Emilia Jones)
Lottie represents the struggle of a child caught in the turmoil of family discord. Her difficulty in trusting her parents makes her journey through grief all the more poignant. Ultimately, her courageous act of honoring Gordie's memory signifies her growth and deepening resilience throughout the film.
- 👧 Trust
- 😢 Grief
- 🛶 Growth
- M(
Mickey (Bobby Smalldridge)
Mickey is a curious child whose imagination is sparked by Gordie's stories of Viking heritage. His youthful innocence contrasts sharply with the heavy themes of loss and familial discord. Through his experiences, he learns valuable lessons about love, family, and the impact of grief on their lives.
- 👦 Curiosity
- 🌌 Imagination
- ⚓ Legacy
- J(
Jess (Harriet Turnbull)
Jess embodies the innocence of childhood amid familial chaos. Her emotional responses to the events surrounding Gordie's death reflect the depth of her connection to him. As a sibling, she plays a crucial role in rallying her brothers to honor their grandfather's final wishes.
- 👧 Innocence
- ❤️ Family
- 🕊️ Hope
Where and When Is What We Did on Our Holiday Set?
What We Did on Our Holiday is set in Scottish Highlands, Gavin McLeod's Mansion and Beach. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The movie unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern family dynamics and the pressures that come with them. The themes of grief, separation, and reconciliation are highlighted within the context of present-day life, capturing the complexities of relationships in a rapidly changing world.
Where
Scottish Highlands, Gavin McLeod's Mansion, Beach
The Scottish Highlands is renowned for its stunning landscapes, characterized by rugged mountains and serene lochs. The opulent mansion of Gavin McLeod serves as a gathering place for the family's celebration, creating an atmosphere of both luxury and tension. The beach becomes a poignant setting for family bonding and mourning, symbolizing both the beauty of life and the depth of loss.
- 🏞️ Highlands
- 🏰 Mansion
- 🌊 Beach
What Are the Themes of What We Did on Our Holiday?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Grief, Family Bonds and Legacy.
-
01
Grief
Grief permeates the narrative as the family navigates the loss of Gordie. This theme is explored through the children's struggle to process their grandfather's death and the adults' burden of shared regrets. Ultimately, Gordie's passing serves as a catalyst for healing and connection among family members.
-
02
Family Bonds
The movie emphasizes the importance of family ties, showcasing how tragedy can unexpectedly bring loved ones closer together. The shared experience of loss strengthens the connection among the grandchildren, while also prompting the adults to reconsider their relationships and unresolved conflicts.
-
03
Legacy
Legacy is poignantly examined through Gordie's final wishes and the family's efforts to honor him. The act of creating a makeshift raft to send him off symbolizes not just his Viking ancestry, but also the enduring impact he has on their lives, shaping their memories and values.
What Kind of Film Is What We Did on Our Holiday?
Bittersweet in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Bittersweet
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A bittersweet and heartfelt family comedy-drama where the honest observations of children unveil hidden marital strife and lead to an unconventional Viking-style farewell for their beloved grandfather, balancing uncomfortable truths with moments of genuine connection.
- quirky
- heartfelt
- uncomfortable
- reflective
- nostalgic
- playful
- family reunion
- marital strife
- grief and loss
- child's perspective
Content notes: terminal illness, child endangerment.
Quiz
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