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Cardiff becomes a battleground as the Ninth Doctor, portrayed by Christopher Eccleston, faces the cunning Slitheen villain Margaret in “Boom Town”, a standout episode from Doctor Who.
In the vast universe of Doctor Who, spanning decades and countless adventures across time and space, pinpointing the absolute best episodes is a challenge for any fan. From heart-wrenching goodbyes to thrilling encounters with iconic monsters, the series has delivered unforgettable moments that resonate long after the credits roll. This list dives into some of the most exceptional episodes, episodes that showcase the brilliance, creativity, and emotional depth that make Doctor Who a beloved cultural phenomenon. Whether you’re a seasoned Whovian or a curious newcomer, these are the episodes that exemplify why Doctor Who consistently ranks among the best in science fiction television.
50. “Boom Town” (2005)
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James Corden as Craig and Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor display fantastic comedic timing and chemistry in “The Lodger”, making it one of Doctor Who’s funniest episodes.
During a seemingly routine stop in Cardiff, the Ninth Doctor, played by Christopher Eccleston, unexpectedly encounters Margaret, a Slitheen adversary previously faced in Downing Street. Instead of immediate execution, Margaret requests a final meal, leading to complex moral dilemmas. This episode, “Boom Town”, injects a compelling ambiguity into the revived series, forcing the Doctor to confront ethical quandaries rarely explored in such depth. It stands out as a thought-provoking entry, demonstrating that even in its early revival, Doctor Who wasn’t afraid to tackle sophisticated themes.
49. “The Lodger” (2010)
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Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor and Yaz, played by Mandip Gill, navigate a family mystery intertwined with alien threats in the historical setting of “Demons of the Punjab”.
“The Lodger” offers a delightful change of pace, showcasing the Eleventh Doctor, portrayed by Matt Smith, in a domestic and comedic setting. James Corden stars as Craig Owens, who finds himself with an incredibly eccentric new flatmate when the Doctor moves in to investigate strange occurrences in the apartment above. The episode thrives on the brilliant chemistry between Smith and Corden, delivering some of the show’s most genuinely funny moments. It’s a charming and lighthearted adventure that proves Doctor Who can be hilarious as well as thrilling, making it a fan-favorite for its sheer entertainment value.
48. “Demons of the Punjab” (2018)
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The epic two-part finale “World Enough and Time” and “The Doctor Falls” features Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor, Missy, Bill Potts, and Nardole in a desperate fight for survival on a spaceship near a black hole.
In a poignant historical episode, Yaz, companion to the Thirteenth Doctor (Jodie Whittaker), takes center stage. Seeking to understand a family mystery, Yaz persuades the Doctor and the team to journey back to 1940s India, a period of immense historical significance. “Demons of the Punjab” beautifully blends personal narrative with science fiction when alien assassins become intertwined with Yaz’s family history. This episode stands out for its emotional resonance, exploring themes of family, loss, and the complexities of the past against the backdrop of the Partition of India, proving Doctor Who can be both educational and deeply moving.
47-46. “World Enough and Time” / “The Doctor Falls” (2017)
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Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor in “Deep Breath”, the season 8 premiere, directed by Ben Wheatley, marking a bold and mature era for the Time Lord.
This two-part saga marks a dramatic and impactful climax for Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor era. “World Enough and Time” and “The Doctor Falls” begins with the Doctor’s ambitious attempt to redeem Missy, only for events to spiral out of control when they find themselves on a colossal spaceship fleeing a black hole, alongside Bill Potts and Nardole. What follows is a masterclass in tension and drama, featuring the return of John Simm’s Master, the chilling evolution of Bill, and a powerful moment where Capaldi’s Doctor defiantly declares, “My name is Doctor Who.” This epic conclusion is celebrated for its complex narrative, emotional depth, and the incredible performances from the cast, solidifying its place among the best Doctor Who finales.
45. “Deep Breath” (2014)
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Jo Martin as Ruth Clayton, revealed to be a previously unknown incarnation of the Doctor in “Fugitive of the Judoon”, a major twist in Doctor Who lore.
“Deep Breath” serves as a striking introduction to Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor. Directed by Ben Wheatley, known for his cinematic style, this season 8 premiere is visually distinct and narratively compelling. Beyond introducing a bolder, more mature Doctor, “Deep Breath” also delves into the character of Clara, portrayed by Jenna Coleman. Initially enigmatic, Clara is fleshed out, becoming a more defined and relatable character. This episode is praised for its strong character work, its cinematic direction, and for confidently setting the stage for a new era of Doctor Who, proving that the show could continually reinvent itself while maintaining its core appeal.
44. “Fugitive of the Judoon” (2020)
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David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor in “The Waters of Mars”, showcasing the Time Lord’s inner turmoil and moral ambiguities as he confronts a devastating future event.
A standout episode from the Jodie Whittaker era, “Fugitive of the Judoon” is packed with action and significant revelations. The episode marks the return of John Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness after a decade-long absence, much to the delight of fans. However, the true bombshell is the introduction of Jo Martin as Ruth Clayton, who is shockingly revealed to be another incarnation of the Doctor, predating even the First Doctor. “Fugitive of the Judoon” is celebrated for its thrilling plot twists and its bold expansion of Doctor Who lore, injecting fresh mystery and excitement into the series and leaving audiences eager for answers.
43. “The Waters of Mars” (2009)
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The two-part story “Dark Water” and “Death in Heaven” reveals Michelle Gomez as Missy, the female incarnation of the Master, and features the poignant farewell of Danny Pink.
“The Waters of Mars” is a powerful showcase for David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor, placing him in a morally challenging situation on a Martian base on the brink of destruction. This special episode delves into the darker aspects of the Doctor’s character, highlighting his internal conflicts and vulnerabilities. He grapples with the temptation to alter a fixed point in time, showcasing a Time Lord who is not always infallible and can be profoundly wrong. “The Waters of Mars” is lauded for its mature themes, its tense atmosphere, and for pushing the boundaries of the Doctor’s established character, making it a gripping and memorable entry.
42-41. “Dark Water” / “Death in Heaven” (2014)
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Jenna Coleman’s Clara Oswald faces the Raven in “Face the Raven”, showcasing her impulsive bravery and willingness to sacrifice herself for her friends.
This two-part finale of season 8 introduces Missy in full villainous glory, revealing her to be the latest incarnation of the Master. “Dark Water” and “Death in Heaven” unravels the mystery of ‘Heaven,’ a recurring motif throughout the season, in a truly shocking and unpredictable manner. Adding to the emotional depth, the storyline delivers a heartbreaking farewell to Danny Pink, Clara’s boyfriend, who demonstrates ultimate heroism in his final moments. This finale is praised for its intricate plot twists, Missy’s captivating villainy, and the poignant emotional core of loss and sacrifice, cementing its place as a standout Doctor Who story.
40. “Face the Raven” (2015)
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Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor and David Bradley as the First Doctor in “Twice Upon a Time”, a reflective Christmas special dealing with themes of legacy and moving on.
“Face the Raven” is a defining episode for Jenna Coleman’s Clara Oswald, showcasing her character’s complexities and strengths. The story unfolds in a secret London street where various alien refugees reside, governed by the enigmatic Me, also known as Ashildr, portrayed by Maisie Williams. Clara’s impulsive nature and independent spirit lead her to make decisions without the Doctor’s knowledge, ultimately resulting in a tragic outcome. Her bravery in facing the deadly Raven to save a friend highlights her defining characteristics: intelligence, compassion, and a fierce loyalty. “Face the Raven” is a powerful and emotionally resonant episode, lauded as Clara’s finest hour.
39. “Twice Upon a Time” (2017)
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Suranne Jones as Idris, the human manifestation of the TARDIS in “The Doctor’s Wife”, allowing the Doctor to finally communicate directly with his iconic time machine.
Peter Capaldi’s final episode as the Doctor, “Twice Upon a Time,” is a reflective and poignant Christmas special. Reluctant to regenerate, the Twelfth Doctor encounters his very first incarnation, played by David Bradley, who shares similar reservations about moving on. Together, they encounter a World War I soldier caught out of time, prompting reflections on mortality, legacy, and the importance of change. Devoid of a typical villain, the episode focuses on character and emotion, providing a heartfelt goodbye to Capaldi’s Doctor and culminating in the exciting first glimpse of Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor. “Twice Upon a Time” is a beautifully crafted farewell, celebrated for its emotional depth and hopeful conclusion.
38. “The Doctor’s Wife” (2011)
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Pearl Mackie as Bill Potts in “Thin Ice”, encountering the realities of 1814 London and forming a strong bond with Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor.
Written by acclaimed author Neil Gaiman, “The Doctor’s Wife” offers a unique and imaginative concept: the TARDIS’s consciousness is transferred into a human body, portrayed by Suranne Jones. This allows the Doctor to finally have a direct conversation with his beloved time machine. The episode is a celebration of the iconic ship and its relationship with the Doctor, filled with clever dialogue and a deeply emotional core. “The Doctor’s Wife” is praised for its originality, its creative exploration of the TARDIS, and Gaiman’s distinctive writing style, making it a truly special and memorable episode.
37. “Thin Ice” (2017)
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Karen Gillan as Amy Pond in “Amy’s Choice”, caught in a dream-like scenario and forced to choose between the Doctor and Rory Williams.
“Thin Ice” is a standout episode for Pearl Mackie’s companion, Bill Potts, set in 1814 London. Bill’s relationship with the Twelfth Doctor, portrayed by Peter Capaldi, truly blossoms in this historical adventure. The Doctor’s witty and efficient response to Bill’s questions about time travel – “It’s just time travel. Don’t overthink it” – perfectly encapsulates his character. In ye olde London, they uncover a sinister secret: a giant alien sea creature chained beneath the frozen Thames, exploited for its valuable excretions. While the concept echoes previous episodes, “Thin Ice” shines in its focus on Bill’s development as a companion, highlighting her empathy, wit, and growing understanding of the Doctor’s world and the importance of humanity.
36. “Amy’s Choice” (2010)
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Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor in “The Pandorica Opens” and “The Big Bang”, the season 5 finale resolving complex plot threads and mysteries established throughout the season.
“Amy’s Choice” delves into the complex dynamic between the Eleventh Doctor, Amy Pond, and Rory Williams. In the early episodes of Matt Smith’s tenure, the Doctor often subtly competed for Amy’s attention with Rory. This episode makes that dynamic explicit, forcing Amy to choose between two realities, one with the Doctor and one with Rory, manipulated by a sinister, dream-like version of the Doctor, portrayed by Toby Jones. “Amy’s Choice” is a clever exploration of relationships and desires, set within a surreal and thought-provoking narrative.
35-34. “The Pandorica Opens” / “The Big Bang” (2010)
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Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor, Karen Gillan as Amy Pond, and Arthur Darvill as Rory Williams in “The Power of Three”, exploring the Doctor’s integration into his companions’ everyday lives.
These two episodes exemplify Steven Moffat’s signature “plot pyrotechnics” – intricate and complex storytelling. “The Pandorica Opens” and “The Big Bang” serve as the thrilling finale to season 5, masterfully weaving together numerous plot threads and mysteries introduced throughout the season, including the enigmatic Pandorica and the cracks in time. The episodes are praised for their ingenious structure, their fast-paced narrative, and for fulfilling the promises set up in the season premiere. Adding to the emotional payoff, the finale culminates in the long-awaited wedding of Amy and Rory, providing a satisfying conclusion to a season filled with twists and turns.
33. “The Power of Three” (2012)
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David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor and Billie Piper as Rose Tyler face Victorian werewolves and ninja monks in the gothic adventure “Tooth and Claw”.
“The Power of Three” offers a unique twist on the companion dynamic. Instead of the Doctor whisking his companions away from their ordinary lives, this episode explores what happens when the Doctor becomes a part of their everyday world. The Eleventh Doctor, played by Matt Smith, settles into a prolonged staycation with Amy and Rory, leading to humorous and insightful observations about human life from the Time Lord’s perspective. Significantly, “The Power of Three” was the last episode filmed with the trio of Smith, Gillan, and Darvill, making it a poignant and warm farewell to the beloved Amy/Rory era, celebrating their unique bond with the Doctor.
32. “Tooth and Claw” (2006)
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Elisabeth Sladen as Sarah Jane Smith reunites with David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor in “School Reunion”, bridging classic and new Doctor Who eras.
“Tooth and Claw” is a thrilling and atmospheric episode that leans into gothic horror elements. Set in Victorian Scotland, the story features ninja monks, werewolves, and a spooky castle, creating a classic penny dreadful vibe. The Tenth Doctor and Rose find themselves protecting Queen Victoria, played by Pauline Collins, from monastic fanatics and their lycanthropic pet. “Tooth and Claw” is praised for its macabre atmosphere, its fast-paced action, and its successful blend of historical setting with classic monster movie tropes, making it a standout highlight of the Tennant era.
31. “School Reunion” (2006)
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Nick Frost as Santa Claus alongside Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor and Jenna Coleman as Clara in the chilling yet festive “Last Christmas” special.
“School Reunion” is a landmark episode that bridges the gap between classic and new Doctor Who. In a series where companions often disappear from the Doctor’s life, this episode provides a refreshing and emotional reunion. Sarah Jane Smith, played by the beloved Elisabeth Sladen, returns, meeting the Tenth Doctor and his current companion, Rose. The episode beautifully explores the Doctor’s past and the impact he has on his companions’ lives, contrasting the nostalgia of classic Who with the dynamism of the revived series. “School Reunion” is celebrated for its emotional depth, its clever integration of Sarah Jane into the new series, and for honoring the rich history of Doctor Who.
30. “Last Christmas” (2014)
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Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor in “The Time of the Doctor”, his final episode, reflecting on change, moving forward, and the culmination of his fairy-tale journey.
“Last Christmas” is a uniquely captivating Christmas special, blending festive cheer with genuine scares. The Doctor and Clara team up with Santa Claus, portrayed by Nick Frost, to confront Alien-esque monsters known as Dream Crabs in a North Pole base. The episode cleverly plays with dream layers and reality, creating a sense of unease and suspense while maintaining a Christmas spirit. “Last Christmas” is praised for its inventive plot, its balance of horror and holiday themes, and its engaging performances, making it a standout among Doctor Who Christmas specials.
29. “The Time of the Doctor” (2013)
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Karen Gillan as Amy Pond in “The Girl Who Waited”, showcasing the emotional consequences of time travel and the deep bond between Amy and the Doctor.
“The Time of the Doctor” marks Matt Smith’s final appearance as the Eleventh Doctor, serving as a triumphant and poignant conclusion to his era. This Christmas special beautifully bookends the fairy-tale journey that began with “The Eleventh Hour.” The episode reflects on themes of change, moving forward, and the Doctor’s purpose, providing a fitting and emotional farewell to Smith’s beloved incarnation. “The Time of the Doctor” is celebrated for its heartfelt moments, its resolution of long-running plot threads, and for giving Matt Smith a memorable and graceful exit.
28. “The Girl Who Waited” (2011)
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Freema Agyeman as Martha Jones in “42”, a real-time thriller where the Doctor and Martha battle a sentient and murderous sun.
“The Girl Who Waited” explores the dramatic consequences of time travel, particularly on personal relationships. After a mishap on a vacation planet, Amy is separated from the Doctor and Rory. When they finally reunite, Rory and the Doctor discover that 36 years have passed for Amy in her timeline, leading to a confrontation with a hardened, resentful older version of Amy. “The Girl Who Waited” is a powerful episode that examines the emotional toll of time travel and the enduring bond between Amy and the Doctor, even when stretched across decades.
27. “42” (2007)
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David Tennant as the human John Smith in “Human Nature” and “The Family of Blood”, a poignant two-parter exploring humanity and sacrifice.
“42” is a tense and fast-paced episode featuring Martha Jones, often regarded as an underrated companion. The episode unfolds in real-time, as the title suggests, adding to the urgency and pressure. The Doctor and Martha must combat a possessed spaceship hurtling towards a sun that is not just a star, but a sentient, murderous entity. “42” is a tight, economical thriller, praised for its relentless pacing, its claustrophobic atmosphere, and for giving Freema Agyeman’s Martha a chance to shine in a high-stakes scenario.
26-25. “Human Nature” / “The Family of Blood” (2007)
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David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor confronts the Sycorax in “The Christmas Invasion”, his debut episode showcasing his silly, kind, and ruthless nature.
This two-part story is often cited as an excellent introduction to Doctor Who for new viewers. “Human Nature” and “The Family of Blood” presents a compelling and self-contained narrative where the Doctor transforms himself into a human schoolteacher named John Smith to hide from a relentless alien family. Set in 1913, on the eve of World War I, the story explores themes of humanity, sacrifice, and love. Martha Jones plays a crucial role, watching as the Doctor, believing himself to be human, falls in love with another woman. The episodes are lauded for their emotional depth, their historical setting, and for the tragic beauty of John Smith’s story, making them a poignant and memorable Doctor Who experience.
24. “The Christmas Invasion” (2005)
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Billie Piper as Rose Tyler and Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor in “Rose”, the episode that relaunched Doctor Who for a modern audience.
“The Christmas Invasion” marks David Tennant’s debut as the Tenth Doctor, a regeneration that occurs right at the start of a Christmas special. While the newly regenerated Doctor spends much of the episode recovering, his eventual awakening and confrontation with an alien invasion is exhilarating. Fighting in a borrowed bathrobe, the Tenth Doctor immediately establishes himself as a dynamic and multifaceted character – silly, kind, ruthless, and utterly delightful. “The Christmas Invasion” is celebrated as a fantastic introduction to Tennant’s Doctor and for its festive action and humor.
23. “Rose” (2005)
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Alex Kingston as River Song and David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor in “Silence in the Library” and “Forest of the Dead”, the thrilling two-parter introducing the enigmatic River Song.
“Rose” is a pivotal episode, relaunching Doctor Who for a modern audience in 2005. It successfully re-introduces the Doctor, now played by Christopher Eccleston with a hardened edge from the Time War, and introduces Billie Piper as Rose Tyler, a relatable and engaging companion. “Rose” masterfully balances re-establishing the core concepts of Doctor Who – the Doctor, the TARDIS, alien threats – while making it accessible and exciting for new viewers. It’s a compelling argument for the series’ enduring appeal and its ability to regenerate itself, just like its lead character. As the Ninth Doctor himself declares, it’s “Fantastic!”
22. “A Good Man Goes to War” (2011)
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“The Impossible Planet” and “The Satan Pit”, a two-part space opera featuring the Tenth Doctor confronting the Devil himself in a station near a black hole.
“A Good Man Goes to War” is an action-packed mid-season finale that introduces Madame Vastra, a Silurian detective, and her wife Jenny, adding to the diverse cast of characters. However, the episode’s most significant moment is the revelation of River Song’s true identity, a plot thread that had been building since her introduction. Packed with answers and new questions, “A Good Man Goes to War” is praised for its thrilling pace, its character introductions, and for delivering a major emotional punch with the River Song reveal, deepening the overarching narrative of the series.
21. “The Day of the Doctor” (2013)
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David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor in “Midnight”, a chilling bottle episode set entirely within a confined tourist shuttle, exploring fear and paranoia.
“The Day of the Doctor” is the spectacular 50th-anniversary special, a celebration of everything that makes Doctor Who great. While some might call it fan service, it’s a delightful romp through the show’s history, featuring the Tenth and Eleventh Doctors teaming up, along with a surprise appearance by the War Doctor. The episode is filled with memorable moments, including the Doctors comparing their sonic screwdrivers and a cameo by Tom Baker as a mysterious curator. Beyond the fan-pleasing elements, “The Day of the Doctor” addresses the Time War in a meaningful way and offers a hopeful glimpse into the future with the brief introduction of Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor.
20-19. “The Stolen Earth” / “Journey’s End” (2008)
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Catherine Tate as Donna Noble in “Turn Left”, exploring a dark alternate reality where a small decision dramatically changes the fate of the world.
This epic two-part finale of season 4 is a massive crossover event, bringing together characters from Doctor Who, Torchwood, and The Sarah Jane Chronicles. “The Stolen Earth” and “Journey’s End” is truly epic in scale, featuring Daleks stealing Earth and assembling a formidable alliance of heroes. Amidst the action and spectacle, the emotional core of the story lies in the tragic fate of Donna Noble, played by Catherine Tate. Her journey takes a heartbreaking turn, making this finale memorable not just for its scale, but for its emotional impact.
18. “Listen” (2014)
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Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor and Tony Curran as Vincent van Gogh in “Vincent and the Doctor”, a poignant episode about mental health and the power of art.
“Listen” is a masterclass in suspense and psychological horror, delving into the universal fear of the unknown. The episode begins with the Doctor pondering a simple question: why do we all have nightmares about something under the bed? This simple premise spirals into a chilling, timey-wimey adventure that explores the nature of fear itself and offers intriguing glimpses into the Doctor’s own past. “Listen” is praised for its atmospheric tension, its clever writing, and for turning a universal childhood fear into a sophisticated and thought-provoking Doctor Who story.
17-16. “Silence in the Library” / “Forest of the Dead” (2008)
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Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor in “Heaven Sent” and “Hell Bent”, a two-part finale exploring grief, resilience, and the Doctor’s return to Gallifrey.
“Silence in the Library” and “Forest of the Dead” is a thrilling two-part story that blends the haunted house trope with science fiction. Shadowy creatures that inhabit shadows themselves create a terrifying and suspenseful atmosphere. However, the episodes are most notable for introducing River Song, played by Alex Kingston, the Doctor’s future love interest, in a non-linear, time-bending relationship. Their first meeting, and River’s apparent end, occurs in this story, setting the stage for one of Doctor Who’s most complex and beloved character arcs.
15-14. “The Impossible Planet” / “The Satan Pit” (2006)
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Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor and John Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness in “The Empty Child” and “The Doctor Dances”, the unforgettable two-parter introducing Captain Jack.
“The Impossible Planet” and “The Satan Pit” is a grand space opera in the classic Doctor Who tradition. Set on a space station orbiting a black hole, the story introduces the eerie Ood and gradually reveals a terrifying adversary: the Devil himself. This two-parter is praised for its scale, its atmospheric setting, and for its exploration of big, philosophical themes in a thrilling and engaging way.
13. “Midnight” (2008)
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“Army of Ghosts” and “Doomsday”, the season 2 finale featuring a crossover battle between Cybermen and Daleks, and the heartbreaking farewell to Rose Tyler.
“Midnight” is a genuinely chilling bottle episode, confined entirely to a tourist shuttle on the planet Midnight. When an unseen entity attacks the shuttle, paranoia and fear escalate among the passengers. The episode is a masterclass in tension, relying on dialogue and performance to create a terrifying and claustrophobic atmosphere. It’s a science fiction twist on the locked-room mystery, often compared to Murder on the Orient Express meets The Thing, showcasing Doctor Who’s ability to create compelling drama in contained settings.
12. “Turn Left” (2008)
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A lone Dalek confronts Rose Tyler and the Ninth Doctor in “Dalek”, a bunker thriller that reintroduces the iconic Doctor Who villain.
“Turn Left” is a thought-provoking episode that explores the butterfly effect on a grand scale. Donna Noble is tricked into altering a single moment in her past, creating an alternate reality where the Doctor never existed. Donna witnesses the devastating consequences of this change, as the world descends into chaos and familiar characters face tragic fates. “Turn Left” is a powerful episode that highlights Donna’s importance in the Doctor’s life and examines how even small choices can have universe-altering ramifications.
11. “Vincent and the Doctor” (2010)
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Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor and Karen Gillan as Amy Pond in “The Eleventh Hour”, a fairy-tale-like premiere episode marking a fresh start for Doctor Who.
Written by Richard Curtis, known for Love Actually, “Vincent and the Doctor” is a deeply emotional and sentimental episode. The Doctor and Amy travel to 1890 to meet Vincent van Gogh, portrayed by Tony Curran, and help him fight a monster. While the monster, a Krafayis, may be more metaphorical than menacing, the episode’s strength lies in its exploration of mental health and its heartfelt tribute to Van Gogh’s art. The episode culminates in a poignant scene where Van Gogh is brought to the future to witness his lasting legacy, making “Vincent and the Doctor” a moving and unforgettable Doctor Who experience.
10-9. “Heaven Sent” / “Hell Bent” (2015)
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David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor and Sophia Myles as Madame de Pompadour in “The Girl in the Fireplace”, a chilling yet romantic episode exploring the Doctor’s loneliness.
“Heaven Sent” and “Hell Bent” is a two-part finale that showcases Peter Capaldi’s Twelfth Doctor at his absolute best. “Heaven Sent” is a near-solo performance by Capaldi, as the Doctor is trapped in a puzzle box castle designed from his nightmares, spending billions of years solving its mysteries to grieve Clara’s death and find his way back to Gallifrey. “Hell Bent” concludes this arc, bringing the Doctor back to his home planet, but with controversial consequences. The finale is lauded for its meticulous plotting, its innovative storytelling in “Heaven Sent”, and for Capaldi’s tour-de-force performance, making it a truly unique and compelling Doctor Who story.
8-7. “The Empty Child” / “The Doctor Dances” (2005)
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Carey Mulligan as Sally Sparrow in “Blink”, facing the terrifying Weeping Angels in a gothic horror-inspired Doctor Who episode.
“The Empty Child” and “The Doctor Dances” is an early two-parter that solidified the success of the revived Doctor Who series. Introducing Captain Jack Harkness, played by John Barrowman, and featuring the chilling refrain “Are you my mummy?”, the story is both creepy and captivating. The episodes set a new standard for the quality and ambition of the new series. The joyous resolution, where Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor declares “Just this once, everybody lives!”, is a rare and uplifting moment in the Doctor’s often tragic life, making these episodes truly unforgettable.
6-5. “Army of Ghosts” / “Doomsday” (2006)
“Army of Ghosts” and “Doomsday” is Doctor Who at its most epic and heart-wrenching. The season 2 finale sees the Tenth Doctor and Rose facing a double threat: Cybermen and Daleks. The scale is massive, the stakes are high, and the emotional core is devastating. While the Doctor and Rose triumph, they are tragically separated, trapped in parallel universes. The Tenth Doctor’s farewell, “I’m burning up a sun just to say goodbye,” is one of the most iconic and heartbreaking lines in the show’s history, making this finale an unforgettable emotional rollercoaster.
4. “Dalek” (2005)
“Dalek” is a pivotal episode that re-introduced the Doctor’s most iconic enemy to the new series. Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor, believing himself to be the last survivor of the Time War, confronts a lone Dalek, also thought to be the last of its kind. Set in a bunker, “Dalek” is a tense and claustrophobic thriller that explores the Doctor’s trauma and his complex relationship with the Daleks. The episode is praised for its powerful character work, its effective re-introduction of the Daleks, and for highlighting the moral ambiguities of the Doctor’s universe.
3. “The Eleventh Hour” (2010)
“The Eleventh Hour” is Matt Smith’s spectacular debut as the Eleventh Doctor and the season 5 premiere, penned by Steven Moffat. It also introduces Karen Gillan as Amy Pond, whose chemistry with Smith is immediately apparent. The episode has a fairy-tale quality, filled with clever plotting and memorable moments. “The Eleventh Hour” successfully launches a new era of Doctor Who, establishing Smith’s eccentric Doctor and the enchanting world he and Amy will explore, setting the stage for a beloved and critically acclaimed season.
2. “The Girl in the Fireplace” (2006)
“The Girl in the Fireplace” is an episode of remarkable depth and originality. The initial concept – a spaceship using human organs to repair itself – is already intriguing, but the episode evolves into something much richer. It’s part chilling body horror, part historical romance, and part meditation on the very nature of Doctor Who. The relationship between the Tenth Doctor and Madame de Pompadour, played by Sophia Myles, is beautifully written and emotionally resonant. Madame de Pompadour’s poignant observation that the Doctor is “a lonely angel” encapsulates the episode’s central theme: the cost of being the Doctor and the inherent loneliness of his existence.
1. “Blink” (2007)
“Blink” is arguably the most famous and acclaimed Doctor Who episode, remarkable for barely featuring the Doctor at all. Instead, the main character is Sally Sparrow, played by a young and phenomenal Carey Mulligan. “Blink” is more akin to a gothic horror film than a typical sci-fi adventure, introducing the terrifying Weeping Angels, statues that move only when unobserved. The episode is a captivating exploration of time, perception, and the creeping dread of the ordinary turning terrifying. “Blink” is celebrated for its originality, its suspenseful atmosphere, and for introducing one of Doctor Who’s most enduring and frightening monsters, securing its place as the best Doctor Who episode for many fans.
