Full Classic DOCTOR WHO Serials Available for Free on YouTube

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Reflecting back to 2009, it was quite a hassle for me when I initially wanted to explore “Doctor Who”. Finding legitimate ways to watch a large amount of the classic series was like searching for a needle in a haystack. Netflix’s online platform was just emerging, offering only a few episodes, DVDs were being released gradually at around $20 each, and the idea of anything free was out of the question. However, times have certainly changed! Now we have services such as Pluto TV, Tubi, and BritBox that run 24-hour classic “Who” channels, and even YouTube provides full serials without commercials for viewing.

The YouTube channel titled “Doctor Who: Classic” offers a substantial collection of 68 classic serials, encompassing all seven Doctors from 1963 to 1989. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it provides a solid representation of the stories. It’s worth noting that this classic series was structured as a serial, with the same story and writer appearing across anywhere between two and twelve episodes in a row, typically lasting 25 minutes per week. On this channel, each video represents the complete story, ranging from 50 minutes (“The King’s Demons” from 1983) to four hours (“The War Games” from 1966).

For each doctor on the channel, they have their unique playlist, but the stories aren’t arranged sequentially, which can be quite frustrating. To make things easier for you, I’ll share one of my preferred stories for each doctor from the available collections. Why not? Here are some great stories to enjoy below.

The First Doctor

In 2025, not everyone might find the initial three seasons of Doctor Who appealing. They are somewhat slow-paced, frequently quiet, and have a dramatic feel that resembles a stage play, which is common in British television. However, as you delve deeper into the series, I believe William Hartnell’s portrayal of the character he created, with his avuncular yet often irascible demeanor, will gradually win you over. Now, I can assertively state that I have grown to adore him and most of his tenure in the role.

Regarding the stories I’d suggest, it’s quite straightforward. Although “The Aztecs,” “The Romans,” and “The Dalek Invasion of Earth” are all notable in their unique ways, they pale in comparison to “The Time Meddler,” the concluding story from season two. This is the tale where the Doctor comes across another Time Lord (who was not named as such at that point), other than his granddaughter Susan (who departed earlier in the year). It’s a fantastic vignette showcasing the best aspects of Hartnell and what writer Dennis Spooner contributed to the series.

The Second Doctor

To keep things simple, many episodes from the 1960s have vanished, possibly due to destruction. Particularly affected is the series featuring Patrick Troughton as the Second Doctor. Out of his 19 serials, a majority are missing, with only six being intact entirely. This number used to be greater. Over time, some episodes have been found, and the BBC has produced animated reconstructions for a significant portion of the remaining ones.

The YouTube channel presents a diverse collection of eight series, some might say an unusual assortment. Among them, my personal favorite is the final story featuring the Second Doctor, titled “The War Games,” a 10-part saga that concludes with the Time Lords (now identified) tracking down the Doctor and compelling his exile and regeneration. However, I wouldn’t suggest starting with this one if you haven’t watched him before. But do consider watching it when you feel prepared!

In this context, I’ll be inserting the complete serial “The Mind Robber” for two reasons: firstly, it’s in its entirety; secondly, it is comparatively brief.

The Third Doctor

I strongly prefer the era when Jon Pertwee played The Third Doctor. This period is unique as it’s the first one filmed in color. Most of the stories unfold on Earth, with the Doctor working alongside the United Nations Intelligence Taskforce to tackle alien incursions, rogue scientists, and similar threats. It has a strong emphasis on action and seems to have been influenced by the James Bond series.

The TV series offers the complete collection of stories from season seven, undeniably its strongest season in the classic period. These tales are thought-provoking, sophisticated, gripping, and captivating throughout their entirety. Notably, three out of the four stories are quite extended, each consisting of seven episodes. Consequently, if you have approximately three hours to spare, you’ll find it hard to make a mistake with “The Silurians,” “The Ambassadors of Death,” or “Inferno.” Personally, “Inferno” is my all-time favorite story.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, allow me to share an unconventional yet delightful tale from Doctor Who’s third season, spearheaded by none other than the talented Robert Holmes. Known by many as one of the greatest and most influential writers on the series, “Carnival of Monsters” is a must-watch for any fan. The intrigue of this story lies in its enigmatic nature; revealing too much would diminish the pleasure of discovering it for yourself. Enjoy the ride!

The Fourth Doctor

Tom Baker’s portrayal of the Doctor was adored by many for numerous years, making him the version that most Americans recognized. His tenure spanned an impressive seven seasons, which is significantly longer than any other. In my opinion, this period featured the most significant changes, not all of which were positive. Fortunately, out of the 16 stories broadcasted, a majority are considered good to excellent.

In simpler terms, “Genesis of the Daleks” and “City of Death” are timeless classics, while “Full Circle” and “The Sun Makers” are lesser-known favorites among fans. However, I personally prefer episodes that delve into darker territories, such as “Horror of Fang Rock”, a chilling alien slasher film set in a Victorian lighthouse. Another contender would be “The Image of the Fendahl”, a somber Lovecraftian mystery. Overall, these choices are all excellent!

The Fifth Doctor

In the ’80s, the quality of the scripts wasn’t always consistent, occasionally dropping or rising unexpectedly. Peter Davison, who was the youngest actor to portray the character prior to the modern era, often found himself in stories where he and his three companions would argue pointlessly, perhaps because conflict fuels drama. Although episodes like “Kinda,” “Enlightenment,” “The Five Doctors,” and “The Caves of Androzani” are considered among his best, they aren’t available on the YouTube channel at the moment.

Among all the time-travel tales from the classic series, “Mawdryn Undead” from season 20 stands out as one of my favorites, despite its peculiarities. This episode brings back Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart (Nicholas Courtney), who appears in two different timeframes, while the Doctor grapples with extraterrestrial beings intent on seizing his regenerations. The storyline also includes a villain compelling a new companion to attempt killing the Doctor. It may be an odd tale, but I find it quite enjoyable.

The Sixth Doctor

Among all the seasons in the series, those particular years were by far the least enjoyable for me, but it’s important to note that this wasn’t primarily due to the performance of the lead actor, Colin Baker. Instead, it was a combination of behind-the-scenes problems, poor ratings, and an overemphasis on violence and death that made it feel more like something other than Doctor Who. These were the tumultuous 1980s under Margaret Thatcher.

Season 22’s entire content can be found on YouTube, while season 23, generally considered superior, remains unavailable. Particular caution is advised for episodes like “Attack of the Cybermen,” “The Two Doctors,” and “Timelash.” On the positive side, “Vengeance on Varos” and “Revelation of the Daleks” are worth watching, albeit with some reservations. However, among these, I would argue that “The Mark of the Rani,” a historical-based tale featuring the Doctor’s confrontation with both the Master and the morally questionable Time Lady, the Rani, stands out as a genuinely good episode, although opinions might differ on this matter. It’s truly outstanding!

The Seventh Doctor

Ultimately, Sylvester McCoy’s quirky yet eerie portrayal of the Doctor concludes the initial series run. His tenure improved over time, but unfortunately, just one story from the exceptional final season (“Ghost Light,” surprisingly my least favorite) is available on YouTube. However, there’s only one standout choice for this particular inclusion, and that is “The Curse of Fenric” or “Remembrance of the Daleks.” While “The Happiness Patrol” and “The Greatest Story in the Galaxy” possess many appealing aspects, they don’t quite match up to the chosen one.

In this account, I find myself delving into Season 25’s opening spectacle, “Remembrance of the Daleks.” As a time-traveling adventurer like the Doctor, I found myself stepping back to the ’60s, not long after he first departed in the series’ debut. The story unfolds with the Doctor and his latest companion Ace entangled between two warring groups of the fearsome Daleks. This tale might just be the finest Dalek-centric adventure presented in color television, a claim I confidently stand by!

Kyle Anderson serves as the Senior Editor at TopMob, where he also runs their weekly pop culture exploration podcast titled Laser Focus. His insightful film and television critiques are available for your perusal here. To keep up with his latest analysis, be sure to follow him on Letterboxd.

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2025-02-12 02:07