Doctor Who: The Time Meddler

The Doctor, Ian, Barbara, and Susan arrive in 11th-century Northumbria, only to find a mysterious Monk has also landed his time machine. The Monk intends to interfere with history, specifically the Battle of Stamford Bridge, by providing advanced weaponry to the Viking forces. The Doctor must find a way to stop the Monk and prevent him from altering the timeline, all while dealing with the local Saxon population and the looming threat of battle.

The Time Meddler is considered a classic early Doctor Who serial, praised for its introduction of a recurring villain with the Monk and for its engaging historical setting. It's often cited for its clever plot and strong performances, particularly William Hartnell's portrayal of the Doctor's moral dilemma.

• A pivotal story that establishes the concept of a Time Lord rival.

• Engaging historical setting combined with a compelling sci-fi plot.

• William Hartnell's Doctor is at his most cunning and morally conflicted.

Google audience: Audience reception is generally very positive, with many appreciating the introduction of the Monk as a foil to the Doctor and the well-realized historical backdrop.

This serial is notable for being the first time the Doctor explicitly encounters another Time Lord (or someone who can travel in time and space using a similar method) outside of his own companions and the TARDIS.