So, you’re thinking about diving into the wonderful world of Doctor Who? Fantastic choice! For decades, Doctor Who has captivated audiences with its unique blend of science fiction, adventure, and heartwarming stories. But with such a long history, starting with the TARDIS can feel a bit daunting. New fans often ask: “Where do I even begin?” and crucially, “Doctor Who, where to watch it?”.
You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed. This guide is designed to be your sonic screwdriver, helping you navigate the vast universe of modern Doctor Who (from the 2005 revival onwards). We’ll break down the best episodes to watch to get you hooked, offering both a “must-see” path and a more in-depth “watch it” journey through the first four seasons and specials starring Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant. Consider this your essential roadmap to becoming a true Whovian, ensuring you catch all the crucial moments while also enjoying some of the best adventures the Doctor has to offer. And yes, we’ll point you in the right direction of where you can actually watch these episodes!
Like many long-running series, Doctor Who can seem intimidating to jump into. The show officially started in 1963, which is a lot of history to consider! However, the good news is that in 2005, Doctor Who was brilliantly relaunched. This revival was crafted to welcome new viewers, meaning you don’t need to know decades of backstory to enjoy it. Think of it as a fresh regeneration, perfect for a new generation of fans.
Even starting from 2005, there are still several seasons to explore. If you’re eager to experience the best of modern Doctor Who without getting lost in every single episode, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find two viewing tracks:
- Must See: This is your express ticket. If you want the essential story beats, character introductions, and key moments that define the era, this is your path. Perfect for those who want the Cliff’s Notes version to quickly get up to speed.
- Watch It: For those who want a richer experience, who enjoy delving deeper into the Doctor’s world and appreciate well-crafted episodes, even if they aren’t strictly crucial to the overarching plot. This track includes everything in “Must See” plus more, helping you avoid only the truly skippable episodes.
(A quick note: If you’re on the “Watch It” track, make sure to watch episodes listed as both “Watch It” and “Must See”).
Get ready to embark on a time-traveling adventure! And remember, the most important thing is to have fun discovering why Doctor Who has captured hearts for so long.
Rose Tyler and the Doctor in the first episode of the revived series, essential viewing for new fans.
SEASON ONE
1. “Rose”: Must See. Pilots are generally important, but “Rose” is especially crucial. It’s designed as a perfect entry point for new viewers. You’ll meet Rose Tyler, who is a fantastic companion, and get your first taste of the Doctor’s extraordinary world. This episode expertly sets the stage for everything that follows, introducing the core concept of Doctor Who in a way that’s both exciting and easy to understand. Think of it as your official welcome to the TARDIS!
Where to Watch “Rose”: Season 1 of Doctor Who (2005) is widely available on major streaming platforms. In the UK, you can often find it on BBC iPlayer. In the US, services like BritBox are excellent options, as it’s dedicated to British television. Amazon Prime Video and other platforms also frequently host Doctor Who seasons for purchase or streaming. Check your preferred streaming service for availability in your region.
2. “The End of the World”: Watch It. When Doctor Who first aired on the Sci-Fi Channel (now Syfy) in the US, “Rose” and “The End of the World” were presented as a two-part premiere, and they work wonderfully together. This episode introduces recurring characters and delves deeper into the Doctor’s mysterious past. While you could technically skip it if you’re in a rush, it enriches your understanding of the Doctor’s universe early on and is a fun adventure in its own right.
3. “The Unquiet Dead”: Maybe Skip It. Technically, this is more of a “Maybe Watch It“. It’s a charming episode with some delightful moments and does subtly connect to the season’s overarching narrative. However, if you’re aiming for a streamlined viewing experience, the consequences of skipping it are minimal. You might miss a tiny joke later in Season 4, but that’s about it. If you’re trying to get to the “must-see” episodes faster, this one could be considered expendable.
4/5. “Aliens of London” / “World War Three”: Watch It. Let’s be honest, the villains in this two-parter are a bit… ridiculous. But these episodes are still valuable. We’re introduced to the fantastic recurring character Harriet Jones (MP, Flydale North!), and importantly, we see Rose’s home life and personal journey given significant attention alongside the global events. This focus on the companion’s life was a notable and welcome change in the revived series compared to classic Doctor Who.
6. “Dalek”: Must See. This is a foundational episode. You absolutely must meet the Daleks, the Doctor’s iconic and most relentless enemies! “Dalek” explores why the Doctor carries so much emotional weight and showcases the terrifying nature of these pepper-pot shaped villains. It’s a dark, intense, and fundamentally important episode for understanding the Doctor’s universe.
7. “The Long Game”: Watch It. While not a fan favorite (despite appearances from Simon Pegg and Tamsin Greig), “The Long Game” is a “Watch It” because it sets up crucial plot elements for the season’s final two episodes. It’s a necessary bridge to the season finale, even if it’s not the most thrilling standalone adventure.
8. “Father’s Day”: Watch It. This episode is largely standalone but is also one of the season’s strongest and a great episode centered on Rose. It’s emotionally resonant, explores the dangers of changing time, and is likely to bring a tear to your eye. Keep tissues handy!
9/10. “The Empty Child” / “The Doctor Dances”: Watch It (Almost Must See). This two-parter is very close to being “Must See,” primarily because it introduces the unforgettable Captain Jack Harkness. Jack becomes a significant recurring character throughout modern Doctor Who and its spin-offs. Beyond Jack, it’s also simply a fantastic two-parter – genuinely creepy, poignant, and surprisingly joyous all at once, showcasing Steven Moffat’s writing talent early on.
Captain Jack Harkness, a fan-favorite character introduced in Season 1.
11. “Boom Town”: Skip It. “Boom Town” is… unique. It’s been described as the My Dinner With Andre of Doctor Who, focusing heavily on dialogue and character interaction. It does explore thematic elements that add emotional depth to the season, and Captain Jack fans might appreciate his presence. However, unless you’re deeply invested in Rose’s relationship with her boyfriend or are a Captain Jack completist, you can save time and skip this one without missing major plot points.
12. “Bad Wolf”: Watch It. Part one of the season finale is primarily a satire of British reality TV. While it doesn’t fully explain the “Bad Wolf” mystery that’s been hinted at throughout the season (despite the title!), it builds tension and ends with a compelling cliffhanger, leading directly into…
13. “The Parting of the Ways”: Must See. This is the epic season finale. It’s emotionally powerful (farewell, Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor!) and sets the stage for the next era of Doctor Who. It’s a major turning point for the series and an episode no new fan should miss. It also naturally leads you to…
SEASON TWO
0. “The Christmas Invasion”: Must See. Christmas specials are numbered a bit strangely in Doctor Who. “The Christmas Invasion” is the only Christmas special on this list designated as “Must See.” While these specials often lean towards lighter, more whimsical adventures, “Invasion” is essential because it introduces David Tennant as the Tenth Doctor. It also brings back Harriet Jones and establishes key plot threads for Season 2. It’s a regeneration episode and a Christmas special rolled into one!
1. “New Earth”: Watch It. “New Earth” could be seen as a standalone adventure, but it’s actually a direct sequel to “The End of the World.” It’s a fun, body-swapping romp with a touch of moralizing. It expands upon the futuristic settings introduced earlier and is a generally enjoyable episode with the new Doctor finding his footing.
2. “Tooth and Claw”: Watch It. On the surface, it’s a bit goofy – werewolves and Queen Victoria! But “Tooth and Claw” is more significant than it initially appears. It blends historical settings with classic Doctor Who monsters and foreshadows elements that become important later in the series.
3. “School Reunion”: Watch It. This episode is a love letter to classic Doctor Who fans. It brings back Sarah Jane Smith, a beloved companion from the classic series. The episode beautifully bridges the gap between old and new Who. Plus, Anthony Stewart Head (of Buffy fame) is the villain! There’s a lot to appreciate in this episode, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series.
4. “The Girl in the Fireplace”: Watch It. Considered by many to be one of Steven Moffat’s finest pre-showrunner episodes. “The Girl in the Fireplace” is a brilliant and romantic time-travel story where the Doctor gets… well, let’s just say he gets romantically involved. It’s a clever and emotionally resonant episode that showcases Moffat’s signature timey-wimey storytelling.
5/6. “Rise of the Cybermen” / “Age of Steel”: Watch It. Featuring a somewhat campy villain and the Cybermen (who can sometimes be a bit bland), this two-parter is nonetheless crucial to the season’s narrative and difficult to skip. It presents a parallel universe Cybermen origin story and sets up plot points that pay off later in the season.
7. “The Idiot’s Lantern”: Maybe Skip It? Technically, “The Idiot’s Lantern” is a standalone episode that you can skip without missing critical plot information. However, it’s also an episode that highlights the Doctor and Rose’s relationship at its most charming and cute. The decision to watch or skip is really up to your personal preference.
8/9. “The Impossible Planet” / “The Satan Pit”: Must See. If you want to give someone a quick introduction to what makes Doctor Who great, this two-parter is an excellent choice. It’s an action-packed, James Cameron-esque adventure that’s genuinely exciting and explores big, philosophical themes about faith and the nature of evil.
10. “Love & Monsters”: Skip It. “Love & Monsters” is a standalone, Doctor-light episode. It features a charming performance by Marc Warren and an experimental narrative approach focusing on a fan’s perspective of the Doctor. However, it’s not essential viewing and is often considered one of the weaker episodes of the season.
11. “Fear Her”: Skip It. The first thirty minutes of “Fear Her” are decent enough. The final ten minutes, however, are often considered incredibly silly and underwhelming. You’re better off moving on to the next episodes.
12/13. “Army of Ghosts” / “Doomsday”: Must See. This is where we say goodbye to Rose Tyler. Given that Rose has been the emotional heart of the show for the past two seasons, this two-parter is undeniably important. It’s also a well-made and impactful finale that raises the stakes and delivers a truly emotional farewell.
The Tenth Doctor and Martha Jones in Season 3, a new dynamic after Rose.
SEASON THREE
0. “The Runaway Bride”: Watch It. Not strictly essential, but “The Runaway Bride” introduces Donna Noble, who becomes a future companion. It’s also packed with action and deals with the Doctor’s emotional state after losing Rose, which is quite cathartic to watch. It’s a fun and energetic Christmas special that sets up future storylines.
1. “Smith and Jones”: Watch It. Meet Martha Jones! She’s the new companion for this season. While some viewers initially found her character arc challenging, Martha grows on you throughout the season. “Smith and Jones” is largely focused on introducing Martha and her world, but it’s also a compelling story with some cool sci-fi drama.
2. “The Shakespeare Code”: Watch It. Watch it for Shakespeare being, well, Shakespeare! It’s a fun historical episode with witty dialogue and an entertaining portrayal of the Bard himself.
3. “Gridlock”: Watch It. “Gridlock” is a sequel of sorts to “End of the World” and “New Earth,” completing a loose trilogy of episodes set on New Earth. It’s a tight, intriguing episode with significant implications for the season’s overarching plot, and features some memorable imagery.
The Face of Boe, a recurring character with connections to the Doctor's past, makes an appearance in "Gridlock".
4/5. “Daleks in Manhattan” / “Evolution of the Daleks”: Skip It. Skip this one. Seriously, skip it. While the 1930s New York setting is somewhat appealing, this two-parter is poorly paced and often considered illogical and nonsensical. It’s generally regarded as one of the weakest Dalek stories in modern Doctor Who.
6. “The Lazarus Experiment”: Watch It. Mark Gatiss guest stars and is delightful. “The Lazarus Experiment” also introduces important technology that becomes relevant later, and features a classic Doctor Who moment – the Doctor “reverses the polarity of the neutron flow!” (a nod to classic Who).
7. “42”: Skip It. “42” has a tenuous connection to the season’s overall arc, but it’s ultimately disposable and not particularly engaging. It’s a real-time thriller set on a spaceship hurtling towards a sun, but it doesn’t quite land as a must-watch episode.
8/9. “Human Nature” / “The Family of Blood”: Watch It. Season 3 has some weaker episodes, but many of the others are fantastic. “Human Nature” / “The Family of Blood” is a prime example. It’s largely standalone, but with a brilliant premise: the Doctor becomes human to hide from enemies and ends up falling in love. It’s beautifully written and emotionally powerful.
10. “Blink”: Must See. “Blink” is widely considered one of the best episodes of modern Doctor Who, and for good reason. Carey Mulligan guest stars and is incredibly charming, the Weeping Angels are terrifying villains, and the episode is incredibly clever and tightly plotted. Written by Steven Moffat, it’s a masterclass in suspense and time-travel storytelling. Do not miss this one.
11/12/13. “Utopia” / “The Sound of Drums” / “Last of the Time Lords”: Must See. An unexpected three-part season finale! “Utopia” / “The Sound of Drums” / “Last of the Time Lords” packs in a season’s worth of drama. Some elements are over-the-top, but it’s undeniably epic in scope. Plus, Captain Jack returns! It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and a truly grand finale to Martha’s season.
Donna Noble returns as a companion in Season 4, bringing a new dynamic to the TARDIS.
SEASON FOUR
0. “Voyage of the Damned”: Skip It. The “Voyage of the Damned” is the Doctor Who version of The Poseidon Adventure. It’s a decent disaster movie in space, but not essential unless you particularly enjoy seeing the Doctor suffer or are a Kylie Minogue fan (she guest stars). There’s a nice moment where the Doctor expresses his affection for Earth, and Kylie’s boots are indeed cute, but overall, it’s skippable.
1. “Partners in Crime”: Watch It. Donna Noble is back, and this time she’s here to stay as a companion! “Partners in Crime” features some of the cutest villains in Doctor Who history (the Adipose!), and ends with an exciting twist that sets up the season’s arc. It’s a fun and quirky episode that reintroduces Donna in a fantastic way.
2. “The Fires of Pompeii”: Skip It. “The Fires of Pompeii” is a decent historical episode with some clever moments, but it’s largely inconsequential to the bigger picture. It features Peter Capaldi and Karen Gillan in pre-Doctor Who roles, which is a fun Easter egg for later viewers, but doesn’t make it essential viewing for new fans.
3. “Planet of the Ood”: Watch It. Did you enjoy the Ood from “The Impossible Planet”? “Planet of the Ood” dedicates an entire episode to them, exploring their history and culture. It’s surprisingly compelling and adds depth to these gentle alien creatures.
4/5. “The Sontaran Stratagem” / “The Poison Sky”: Watch It. The best word to describe this two-parter is “solid.” “The Sontaran Stratagem” / “The Poison Sky” features good character work, decent action, and importantly, a proper introduction to UNIT (Unified Intelligence Taskforce), a recurring military organization in Doctor Who.
6. “The Doctor’s Daughter”: Skip It. “The Doctor’s Daughter” is generally not well-regarded. It features questionable logic (clones are not children, indeed!), shaky ethics, and some out-of-character behavior. It’s an episode many fans prefer to forget.
7. “The Unicorn and the Wasp”: Skip It. “The Unicorn and the Wasp” is a fun romp and might be enjoyable if you’re a big Agatha Christie fan, as it’s styled as a classic murder mystery. However, it’s a fairly standard standalone episode.
8/9. “Silence in the Library” / “Forest of the Dead”: Must See. Initially, this two-parter might have been just a “Watch It,” but a character introduced here becomes a linchpin for Season Six, making it retrospectively “Must See”. Beyond that connection, “Silence in the Library” / “Forest of the Dead,” again written by Steven Moffat, is a strong two-parter with genuinely spooky and inventive moments featuring the Vashta Nerada, shadows that eat flesh.
10. “Midnight”: Watch It. “Midnight” is technically a standalone episode, but it’s one of the greats. It’s a fantastic bottle episode set entirely on a tour bus on a hostile planet. It gets incredibly dark, claustrophobic, and creepy, exploring mob mentality and fear of the unknown.
11/12/13. “Turn Left” / “The Stolen Earth” / “Journey’s End”: Must See. First and foremost, “Turn Left,” which explores an alternate universe where Donna didn’t meet the Doctor, is a standout episode and a fan favorite. It highlights how crucial the Doctor is to the universe. It leads directly into a massive season finale two-parter, “The Stolen Earth” / “Journey’s End,” where things get epic and somewhat ridiculous. Not everything in the finale works perfectly, and some moments are tragic. But it’s Doctor Who at its most grand and operatic, bringing together characters and storylines from across the revived series.
The Tenth Doctor's era comes to a close in "The End of Time" specials.
THE GAP YEAR (A.K.A. “LET’S GET ANOTHER YEAR OUT OF DAVID TENNANT WHETHER HE LIKES IT OR NOT”)
“The Next Doctor” / “Planet of the Dead” / “The Waters of Mars” / “The End of Time”: Skip It. This series of specials, released between seasons 4 and 5, are grand in scale, but the overarching narrative is essentially “The Doctor is incredibly emo and needs to regenerate.” None of the individual adventures are strong enough to overcome this melancholic tone.
You might want to watch “The End of Time,” as it does have some over-the-top moments courtesy of John Simm as the Master, and it culminates in Tennant’s regeneration, leading to the Eleventh Doctor. However, for a more efficient viewing experience, you could consider skipping to around 52 minutes into “End of Time, Part 2.” This will take you straight to the twenty-minute “farewell to the Russell T. Davies era” montage, which is admittedly excessive but also somewhat sweet if you’ve invested in the show up to this point.
And then, a new era begins with these two!
Matt Smith and Steven Moffat take over Doctor Who in Season 5, ushering in a new era.
Opinions are divided on the Matt Smith era, ranging from “very successful” to “alright.” It’s definitely a different vibe compared to what came before, but at its heart, it’s still Doctor Who – a show about a person with a magic time-traveling box. And that’s always alright.
Where to Watch Doctor Who Overall: Beyond specific episodes, if you’re looking for where to watch Doctor Who in general, here are some options:
- Streaming Services: As mentioned earlier, BritBox is a fantastic option in the US, Canada, and Australia, offering a wide range of classic and modern Doctor Who. BBC iPlayer is the go-to in the UK. Amazon Prime Video, Netflix (depending on your region), and other streaming platforms may also carry Doctor Who – availability can vary, so check your local services.
- Digital Purchase/Rent: Episodes and seasons are often available for purchase or rent on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and others.
- DVD/Blu-ray: For collectors or those who prefer physical media, Doctor Who seasons are readily available on DVD and Blu-ray.
No matter where you choose to watch, the journey through Doctor Who is an unforgettable one. This guide is just the beginning. Happy watching, and geronimo!
