Playing to what I view as the series strengths "The Visitation" effectively blends period settings (in this case the charming idyllic setting of England, 1666) with an alien threat (the reptilian Terileptils) and is a continual viewing delight with a script sparkling with witty dialogue, intrigue and adventure. The star attraction is guest actor Michael Robbins as the slightly sardonic good natured highwayman Richard Mace whom attempts to somehow accept the many wonders the newly arrived TARDIS team presents him with during the course of this adventure. Its arrival on DVD presents us with the usual polished episode prints together with some suitably themed extracts. Amongst the total 66 mins of these bonus features the main items of interest are 'Directing Who - Peter Moffatt' (approx 26 mins), 'Scoring The Visitation' (approx 16 mins) and 'Writing A Final Vistation' (approx 13 mins) which marvellously enhance your appreciation of this story. With the usual high spirited, light hearted commentary on offer from the four principle regular cast members supplemented by director Peter Moffatt this is certainly an essential quality title worthy of a place in your 'classic series' Doctor Who collection!

Doctor Who does history didn't always work in the programmes history but this is one of the stories where it is pulled off. The feel is right. The acting is good. The script is fine and the idea is brilliant. The reason it works as a historic piece is because it doesn't set out to patronise and teach history it just is. Hence the scene at the end where the place name is revealed. It isn't in your face if you know your history it will make sense if you don't then it wont but that does't hinge on the story.

The slow pace notwithstanding, The Visitation is still a pretty good watch, with a good historical feel and some nice character moments for the Doctor and Tegan. Watch out for the magic celery in the barn scene!