In an old curiosity shop, amidst the gloom and poverty, lives a grandfather and his beautiful granddaughter, 'Little Nell' Trent.

When Nell's grandfather gambles away money borrowed from the vengeful and sadistic Daniel Quilp, the shop is seized in payment for overdue debts and both Nell and her grandfather are evicted.

Homeless, Nell and her grandfather are left destitute, but this is only the beginning of Nell's tragic journey.