Unlock the Secrets: Must-Watch Classic Doctor Who Episodes for New Fans!

It’s always a challenge to figure out where to start with the series “Doctor Who”. If you’re new to it, you might be taken aback by the vast amount of content available – from classic episodes to the 2005 revival, minisodes, holiday specials, radio plays, and numerous books that may not even tie directly into the show.

Even experienced fans may occasionally get lost in these challenging waters, so don’t worry if you feel unsure about your path. Many others have found themselves in a similar predicament. First off, though, it’s important to note that diving into the show by starting with the original episodes might not be the best approach. Instead, newcomers should begin their adventure with the 2005 revival, also known as NuWho. Only after gaining some experience and surviving the quirks, cringe-worthy moments, and overall charm of NuWho should you consider tackling the classic episodes.

First, The Golden Rule Of Classic Doctor Who

Classic Doctor Who differs significantly from New Who, in the most delightful and eccentric ways imaginable. Unlike its modern counterpart, Classic Who showcases unusual scene transitions, spontaneous genre shifts, and peculiar, fantastical adversaries. If you’re expecting a NuWho-like experience when diving into Classic Who, think again. The classic episodes were produced before the advent of CGI and under tight BBC budget constraints, limiting their visual effects experimentation. However, they more than compensate with an array of intriguing elements that set them apart.

So, Where Do You Even Start With Classic Doctor Who?

Unlike modern Doctor Who (NuWho), classic Doctor Who doesn’t have a definitive starting point. Produced during an era before binge-watching was common, each season is made up of several story arcs that stretch across multiple episodes. This means you can essentially start watching almost anywhere based on your preferences. Whether it’s a specific Doctor, monster, or storyline that catches your eye, you can dive right in. That being said, there are suggested starting points, but they can vary greatly depending on personal taste. However, here are some episodes I would personally recommend as good places to start:

1) “Terror of the Zygons” (Tom Baker, Season 13, Episodes 1–4)

We’ll kick things off with a typical choice: Tom Baker, undeniably one of the most famous Doctors from the classic period. This storyline features some of the show’s most memorable episodes, such as “Genesis of the Daleks” and “Space Ark”. The plot revolves around Sarah Jane Smith, an exceptional companion, who, along with the Doctor, embarks on a mission given to them directly by the Time Lords. Remarkably, they accomplish this task without the aid of our mysterious, beloved, and puzzling blue box.

2) “The Invasion” (Patrick Troughton, Season 6, Episodes 11–18)

Instead of frequently being called the Doctor’s arch-enemy, the Daleks, it’s the Cybermen that truly steal the show when it comes to intensity. Nothing is more intense than observing swarms of freshly upgraded Cybermen emerging from the sewers to initiate their first invasion of London in this 7-episode storyline. To make things even more gripping, this tale also introduces another source of unease, a villain whose eeriness sends chills down your spine. Tobias Vaughan is both thrilling and terrifying to watch, even before the Cybermen appear in the latter part of the story arc.

3) “Caves of Androzani” (Peter Davison, Season 21, Episodes 17–20)

As a devoted fan, I can’t stress enough how crucial it is not to miss the gripping story arc that signifies the twilight of Peter Davison’s tenure as The Doctor. This farewell tour is nothing short of spectacular! While it might seem unconventional to commence at the end, this is your chance to witness Davison’s Doctor shining in all his splendor.

The arc weaves a thrilling yarn filled with corrupt officials, political machinations, and ruthless arms dealers. Yet, it’s more than just a tale of power and deceit; it serves as a poignant reminder of who The Doctor truly is – a healer, protector, sacrificial lamb, and an embodiment of courage.

Essential Doctor Who Arcs You Shouldn’t Skip

If you find it challenging to commit to watching all 550+ episodes, we completely understand. After all, that’s quite an extensive amount of content. However, if you’d like to get a sense of the overall series without diving straight in, here’s a list of key story arcs you can check out instead:

1. Arc 1: The Epic Beginning
2. Arc 2: The Great Conflict
3. Arc 3: Rise of the Heroes
4. Arc 4: The Dark Empire
5. Arc 5: The Fall and Redemption
6. Arc 6: The Final Battle
7. Arc 7: The New Dawn

These arcs encapsulate the most significant and impressive moments from the show, allowing you to get a feel for its scope without having to watch every single episode. Enjoy!

“An Unearthly Child“

Here’s where our journey started: The very first encounter with an enigmatic, stunningly beautiful, yet frustrating character we affectionately call the Doctor. In the opening episode itself, we’re introduced to his granddaughter, Susan, before diving into a thrilling tale that carries us through the cosmos and across different eras. However, some may find the subsequent three episodes less captivating compared to the initial one, so if you choose to skip them, rest assured you won’t be missing out on significant events.

“The Daleks“

This series of episodes follows the first appearance of our favorite exterminators — the Daleks.

“The Tenth Planet“

These installments delve into the debut of the Cybermen and chronicle the story of the Doctor’s initial transformation through regeneration. Regrettably, a significant portion of the concluding episode has been lost over time, leaving only the scene where viewers get to witness the Doctor undergoing his first regeneration.

“The Curse of Peladon“

If you’re a fan of stories that revolve around bravery, devotion, and resistance in outer space, then you’ll find this captivating. In an homage to the Star Trek series, Doctor Who weaves an emblematic tale filled with extraterrestrial beings, interstellar alliances, and political machinations, making it a must-watch episode on our list of top picks.

“The Three Doctors“

This Tenth Anniversary Special marked the start of an enduring custom. Globally, Whovians were treated to the turmoil and breathtaking grandeur of seeing several versions of the Doctor appear together on-screen for the very first time in this episode.

“Planet of the Spiders“

This particular element stands out uniquely due to a single factor: it effectively sets the stage for the audience’s understanding of regeneration.

“Genesis of the Daleks“

In these captivating episodes, we’re initially introduced to the enigmatic and chaotic Time War. But there’s more! This series also chronicles the emergence of the Daleks, marking their debut, and even introduces us to their inventor, the cunning Davros, for the first time on screen.

“The Deadly Assassin“

In this esteemed series, traditionally recognized as one of the most significant Time Lord stories since they first appeared on the program, the Master makes a comeback.

“The Invisible Enemy“

Although most people might not suggest you watch this particular arc, we strongly advise you not to skip it, especially if you’re an ardent fan of K9, the Doctor’s loyal canine robot companion. Fans were first introduced to K9 in season 2, episode 3 of NuWho, and since then, many have been eagerly waiting for more. This arc is where we first encountered this brilliant, badass little machine.

You have the option to watch “Doctor Who” (NuWho) on Disney+. Alternatively, you can find the classic series of “Doctor Who” on platforms such as Britbox, Tubi, and various other streaming services.

2025-06-16 22:10