Doctor Who: War Of The Sontarans Review - 7 Ups & 5 Downs

The biggest surprise of the episode was Mary Seacole, yet another overlooked historical figure who Chibnall has bought to the forefront. We appreciate that, rather than going the obvious route of using Florence Nightingale here, Chibs opted to shine a light on another great healer who is equally worthy of our praise.

Seacole, played by Sara Powell, was very likeable and heartwarming throughout this episode, with her ‘British Hotel’ serving as the hub of the Crimean plot. Bringing a little humanity to the episode, she helps steer the plot without being at the centre of it, which was a refreshing twist on the ‘celebrity historical’ formula, much like Spyfall Part 2.

Her observational skills and medical knowledge help to defeat the Sontarans, but in a natural and believable way, and she even drops a few zingers in there for good measure.

Chibs once again shows us that historicals are definitely one of his strengths. Good job!