Doctor Who: 10 Best Episodes To Get You Into The Classic Series

This one is a more controversial choice. While not the best episode from Hartnell’s era, it could be argued that it’s beginner-friendly. An example of a pure historical where there is no alien threat, The Romans has the Doctor meeting Emperor Nero while Ian and Barbara get captured by slave traders.

A more comedic episode that focuses on character interactions rather than a direct threat, this story cements Ian and Barbara as fan-favourite companions, and highlights how Hartnell is the same Doctor that ended up beating the Master and the Weeping Angels. The First Doctor evolves from a stubborn old man to a kind (yet still very stubborn) Grandpa-like figure, and no episode shows this better than The Romans.

While there is no real plot and the acting isn’t always consistent, The Romans is a fun watch. A great TARDIS team and a nice ‘Doctor Who’ explanation to real historical events, this should be watched just for the sheer contrast in the First Doctor’s personality.