Vic (Tom Courtenay), Lenny (David Hemmings), Ray (Bob Hoskins) and Vince (Ray Winstone) are four South London friends who have been drinking in the same pub for years. Their old friend Jack (Michael Caine) has just died, and they have promised to scatter his ashes from the end of Margate pier. As they set out for the coast, they begin a journey which will take them across the years, recalling their history together, and all the secrets and dreams which have cemented their long friendship.