Bert Bogglethrop, along with his son and senior helper’s assistance, attempt to breathe new life into a desolate medieval building called Monkspew Manor with its array of ornate Tudor chimneys and paintwork. His trusty team set to work with the help of some cut-price paint and materials of dubious origin. Bert's intentions are honest enough but strange happenings at the estate take on a bizarre series of events.

Lord and Lady Syngen-Hyde are the heirs of the stately pile, but the legality of their rightful ownership also becomes dubious together with their intentions towards their niece Millie.

Millie, aged ten, is sent to stay at the estate with her faithful and loving Nanny, Mrs Braceworthy, for her summer holiday from boarding school, something Millie is not looking forward to. And as work commences, Millie settles into her new surroundings but strange occurrences at the manor peeks her inquisitive nature.

Millie embarks on a fact-finding mission, and together with the rest of the gang they investigate the dark secret that stalks the corridors and chimneys.