7. The Talons Of Weng Chiang
When the moment comes, Mr Jago, you and I can face our destiny shoulder to shoulder.
Doctor Who meets Sherlock Holmes in Victorian London... What could possibly go wrong? This six-part tale rounded off the Peter Hinchcliffe Gothic horror era in style as the Doctor and Leela investigated the disappearance of several women on the foggy streets of London. Along the way they uncovered an oriental stage show that hides a darker secret, the discovery of the time cabinet and an escaped criminal mastermind from the 51st century. It's clear to see why this is a fan favourite. Jago and Litefoot are a wonderful double act and allies of the Doctor, so much so that they even had their own Big Finish audio spin off. There is also some chilling, atmospheric imagery at play throughout this story. The giant rat in the sewers might look a little naff but the thought of this creature is horrifying, as is the ventriloquist dummy with the ability to kill. The only thing that doesn't put this tale even higher on the list is that the six-part tale sags a little at time with one cliffhanger being virtually repeated later on. But as an introduction to proper Gothic horror, you can't go wrong with this story.