Set in a traditional corner shop Open All Hours centers around the lives of Albert Arkwright (Ronnie Barker), called Arkwright for short, and his nephew Granville (David Jason). The pair are constantly arguing. Arkwright, the stammering cheapskate is always trying new sales schemes, that cost little and mostly yield a sigh from Granville. His nephew on the other hand would like to improve his working conditions as an errand boy (for example by replacing the old transport bicycle with van) which of course is met by his uncle's cost consciousness. Granville not so secretly longs for a more bohemian lifestyle whilst Arkwright courts the district nurse Gladys Emmanuel (Lynda Baron) living across the road who does not reciprocate his feelings.
Starting with a Christmas special in 2013 Still Open All Hours, a sequel to the original programme starring many original cast members, was broadcast.