Carry on Doctor

For those who grew up in the Seventies, Doctor Who was a defining childhood experience. This month, after a gap of 20 years, the show returns with its ninth doctor and is keenly anticipated by old fans and their offspring alike. Stephen Phelan examines the story behind this much-loved and enduring phenomenon

The History of Doctor Who

In the universe of Doctor Who, all moments in time are occurring simultaneously. The trick is moving back and forth between them. With that in mind, let’s go to Saturday, November 23, 1963, as this curious new programme about an irritable, inscrutable alien gentleman suddenly appears on BBC television, in the space between Grandstand and Jukebox Jury – although most viewers don’t notice at first, distracted by the news of President John F Kennedy’s assassination, which happened only yesterday.

Next, let’s look into Wednesday, December 6, 1989, as Doctor Who, having become the longest-running science-fiction series in broadcasting history, vanishes from British screens after 26 years of continuous adventures.

And now, let’s fast-forward to Saturday, March 26, 2005, as the show reappears in a new form for the 21st Century. Like the Doctor himself, who has at this point been played by nine different actors in nine different ways across the decades, the programme is entirely transformed, yet remains recognizably the same entity. This process is known, in the universe of Doctor Who, as “regeneration”.

The Return of Doctor Who

“The biggest change is the date,” says new series writer Russell T Davies. “The show is only really different in the sense that we are making it right now, for modern audiences. Perhaps in originally running for 26 years, Doctor Who gathered a certain amount of moss, layers of associations that hid what was underneath. But strip all that away and you’re left with the basic idea – there is an alien, there is a human companion, and together they travel in time and space. It’s brilliant and beautiful and there is nothing complicated about it.”

Having 'dropped hints' with the BBC throughout his career, Davies has finally been given the opportunity to revive Doctor Who. For his new incarnation, the alien in question takes the shape of accomplished, unpredictable, and intensely watchable Manchester character actor Christopher Eccleston. The human companion is a young London department store clerk called Rose, played by minor popstar turned subtle performer Billie Piper.

The show begins when an army of shop mannequins rises up to slaughter customers, activated by the Autons, a malevolent collective consciousness manifested in plastic. This threat last appeared in the early Seventies, and the programme was so popular that even the House of Lords was troubled by The Autons’ ability to mould themselves into British policemen, expressing concern about the show’s effect on the public image of police officers.

“In its prime,” says Davies, whose own childhood love of Doctor Who began in the Pertwee era, “everyone watched it. Everyone. Your teachers would be talking about it at school. Girls were into it, which seems almost inconceivable now. It wasn’t just for fans. It was really, really loved by entire generations.”

The Legacy of Doctor Who

Doctor Who began as a kind of experiment, when BBC television was still a relatively new enterprise. In 1962, the light entertainment department asked the script department if it would be feasible to produce a science fiction programme. The researchers suggested that a show about time travel or telepathy might best entertain and educate young viewers. The details were thrashed out, and the show evolved into the outline of an otherworldly grandfather figure.

Cast in the title role, William Hartnell played the original Doctor Who as a tetchy, enigmatic old renegade who protects the human race as a kind of scholarly hobby. The actor himself was a bright-eyed, enthusiastic fellow. He saw the lasting value in a piece of work functionally designed to fill a slot on Saturday evenings.

The show and the character underwent various transformations over the years, bringing in new actors and facing new adversaries. Doctor Who became less a part of the science fiction genre, and more of a genre in itself. It gained a strong following and left a lasting impact on the British television landscape.

The Return and Future of Doctor Who

After a long hiatus, Doctor Who is making a return to television screens. Russell T Davies and his team are committed to restoring the series to its former glory. They aim to capture the wildness and scariness that made it a beloved show, while also adding a contemporary touch to appeal to modern audiences.

The new series promises to provide authentic emotions in addition to its fantastical elements. Davies draws inspiration from successful fantasy shows like Buffy The Vampire Slayer, believing that the inclusion of strong emotional content will engage viewers and keep them coming back for more.

The revival of Doctor Who is an exciting moment for fans old and new. With a talented cast and creative team at the helm, the show's return is eagerly anticipated. The legacy of Doctor Who lives on, and its influence can still be felt in the hearts of its dedicated fanbase.

Hotels for Doctor Who Fans

For those planning to visit Scotland and explore the origins of Doctor Who, there are several hotels that offer a unique experience for fans of the show. Here are a few options:

The TARDIS Inn

Located in Edinburgh, The TARDIS Inn offers themed rooms inspired by the Doctor Who series. Guests can stay in rooms designed to resemble the interior of the TARDIS, complete with time-travel motifs and decor. The inn also features a Doctor Who-themed bar and restaurant, where visitors can enjoy drinks and meals inspired by the show.

Gallifrey Retreat

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of the Scottish Highlands, Gallifrey Retreat provides a tranquil and secluded getaway for Doctor Who enthusiasts. The retreat offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Guests can relax and immerse themselves in the world of Doctor Who, surrounded by memorabilia and themed decorations.

The Dalek Hotel

Located in Glasgow, The Dalek Hotel is a must-visit for fans of the Doctor's most iconic adversaries. The hotel features Dalek-themed rooms and decor, providing a unique and immersive experience. Guests can enjoy amenities such as Dalek-shaped swimming pools and themed dining experiences.

These are just a few examples of the many hotels available that cater to Doctor Who fans. Whether you're looking for a whimsical stay in the heart of the city or a secluded retreat in the countryside, there are options to suit every fan's preferences.