Doctor Who

10 Best Episodes of Doctor Who - Season 9

Are you a fan of time travel, thrilling adventures, and saving the universe from imminent destruction? Then you're in for a treat with the long-running TV show, Doctor Who. This beloved series has captured the hearts of millions since its revival in 2005, taking viewers on a wild ride through time and space. With its unique premise and captivating storytelling, Doctor Who has become a cult classic and a must-watch for any sci-fi enthusiast.

At the center of Doctor Who is the enigmatic character known simply as the Doctor. This Time Lord, portrayed by a talented cast of actors, is a 900-year-old alien with two hearts and an insatiable desire to explore the cosmos. Armed with a trusty time-traveling spaceship called the TARDIS, the Doctor embarks on thrilling adventures across different planets and time periods. Whether it's battling sinister creatures, solving complex mysteries, or righting the wrongs of the universe, the Doctor's mission is to save lives and protect the fabric of reality itself.

Since its inception, Doctor Who has garnered a dedicated fan base, known as Whovians, who eagerly await each new episode. With a whopping 15 seasons under its belt, the show has amassed an impressive catalog of episodes that span a wide range of genres and themes. From heart-pounding action to heartwarming character moments, Doctor Who offers something for everyone. So, grab your sonic screwdriver and get ready to dive into the best episodes this iconic series has to offer.

Written by Sophie and last updated on jan 22, 2024.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

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Doctor Who - S9E9

#12 - Sleep No More (Season 9 - Episode 9)

This terrifying story is assembled from footage discovered in the wreckage of Le Verrier Space Station.

The episode was rated 6.73 from 1725 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E7

#11 - The Zygon Invasion (1) (Season 9 - Episode 7)

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When Osgood is kidnapped by a rogue gang of Zygons, the Doctor, Clara and Unit must scatter across the world in a bid to set her free. But will they reach her in time, and can they stop an uprising before it is too late?

The episode was rated 7.55 from 1744 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E6

#10 - The Woman Who Lived (2) (Season 9 - Episode 6)

England, 1651. The deadly Highwayman 'The Knightmare' and his sidekick stalk the dark streets of London. But when they find loot that's not of this world, they come face to face with The Doctor. Who is the Nightmare in league with? And can the Doctor avoid the hangman's noose and protect Earth from a devilish betrayal?

The episode was rated 7.68 from 1727 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E5

#9 - The Girl Who Died (1) (Season 9 - Episode 5)

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In a Viking village, a girl named Ashildr is about to make a desperate mistake. The Mire are the deadliest mercenaries in the galaxy, famed for showing no mercy and Ashildr has just declared war on them. The Doctor and Clara have 12 hours to turn a peaceful village into strong fighters, ready for the deadly Mire.

The episode was rated 7.76 from 1819 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E4

#8 - Before the Flood (2) (Season 9 - Episode 4)

An alien warlord sets a twisted plan in motion in order to ensure his survival on a remote Army outpost, and the Doctor may have to do something unthinkable.

The episode was rated 7.82 from 1790 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E3

#7 - Under the Lake (1) (Season 9 - Episode 3)

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The Doctor and Clara save the frightened crew from a threat in an underwater base, but the Doctor questions the haunting.

The episode was rated 7.89 from 1794 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E8

#6 - The Zygon Inversion (2) (Season 9 - Episode 8)

With UNIT neutralised, only the Doctor stands in the way of the Zygons.

The episode was rated 7.90 from 1710 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E2

#5 - The Witch's Familiar (2) (Season 9 - Episode 2)

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Trapped and alone in a terrifying Dalek city, the Doctor is at the heart of an evil Empire; no sonic, no TARDIS, nobody to help. With his greatest temptation before him, can the Doctor resist? And will there be mercy?

The episode was rated 8.08 from 1888 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E10

#4 - Face the Raven (Season 9 - Episode 10)

The Doctor and Clara, with their old friend Rigsy, find themselves in a magical alien world, hidden on a street in the heart of London.

The episode was rated 8.13 from 1866 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E1

#3 - The Magician's Apprentice (1) (Season 9 - Episode 1)

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Where is the Doctor? When the skies of Earth are frozen by a mysterious alien force, Clara needs her friend. But where is the Doctor, and what is he hiding from? As past deeds come back to haunt him, old enemies will come face-to-face, and for the Doctor and Clara survival seems impossible.

The episode was rated 8.13 from 2094 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E12

#2 - Hell Bent (2) (Season 9 - Episode 12)

If you took everything from him, betrayed him, trapped him, and broke both his hearts...how far might the Doctor go?

The episode was rated 8.39 from 2005 votes.

Doctor Who - S9E11

#1 - Heaven Sent (1) (Season 9 - Episode 11)

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Trapped in a world unlike any other he has seen, the Doctor faces the greatest challenge of his many lives in the Doctor Who episode "Heaven Sent (1)." This episode showcases the best acting we've seen in a while by Capaldi, truly a masterpiece. Moffat's storytelling abilities are on full display, and while we may still be mourning Clara's death, this episode more than makes up for it. The ending will make you squeal with delight, but be careful not to take Capaldi's words too literally (or not).

"I just can't fucking believe it," said one viewer, encapsulating the shock and awe this episode delivers. The Shakespearean elements woven throughout add an extra layer of brilliance to an already outstanding episode. In fact, it's safe to say that "Heaven Sent (1)" is one of the best Doctor Who episodes to date. Capaldi's performance as the Doctor is unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on fans and solidifying his place in the show's legacy. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and amazement of this fantastic episode. It's one you'll want to watch again and again.

The episode was rated 8.54 from 2101 votes.

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