Tom, a foundling abandoned at birth, is adopted by the benevolent Squire Allworthy. He grows up and falls desperately in love with Sophia Western, the daughter of the neighbouring squire. Unfortunately for Tom, Sophia is already betrothed to Blifil, his scheming arch-rival.

Tom embarks on a journey, while Sophia attempts to escape the threat of marriage.

After learning that Tom was with another woman at the inn, Sophia falls in with her cousin, Harriet Fitzpatrick, who is herself fleeing from her violent husband. Tom is put on the right road by two travelling puppeteers with Partridge reluctantly in tow. But in London he can find no word of Sophia and once again Tom falls victim to a plot.

Caught in a clinch with the beautiful Sophia Western, Tom Jones is in deep trouble with the scheming Lady Bellaston. Tom manages to placate Lady Bellaston, who wants his undivided and very personal attention. She soon decides to remove Sophia by concocting a scheme with Lord Fellamar, one of her lecherous friends. The abrupt and drunken arrival in London of Sophia's father, Squire Western, thwarts Lord Fellamar's plans. Sophia is locked away in her father's lodgings while Squire Western awaits the arrival of Allworthy and Master Blifil - still intent on marrying Sophia.

Tom's spirited adventures in search of his beloved Sophia bring him into violent confrontations with a press-gang hired by Lord Fellamar and the dangerous Mr Fitzpatrick.