Doc Martin

Doc Martin follows Dr Martin Ellingham, a highly skilled but blunt physician who relocates to the fictional Cornish village of Portwenn to serve as the local GP. His brusque bedside manner and awkward social habits clash with the town's insular residents, creating frequent embarrassments, dry humour and quieter dramatic beats. Episodes balance individual medical cases with ongoing personal threads, so relationships and reputations shift gradually across seasons consistently. Martin Clunes anchors the show as the title character, supported by an ensemble that brings village life to the fore through gossip, small-business antics and occasional moral quandaries.

Created by Dominic Minghella from a character in the film Saving Grace, Doc Martin first aired in 2004, filmed largely on location in Port Isaac, with five series and a 2006 Christmas special before series 6 in 2013.

The show and its cast earned attention at British television awards and audience polls over its run, with Martin Clunes especially singled out by viewers and critics. Industry groups recognised writing and performances in various years, and the series appeared on multiple best-of lists; audience polls often highlighted Clunes' work.

The picturesque filming in Port Isaac helped put the village on the tourist map, while the title character became a recognisable figure in UK TV culture. The series inspired spin-offs in merchandise, guided walks and local publicity, and tourists still visit filming spots and related businesses; shops sell show-themed souvenirs.

Critics often praised Clunes' deadpan lead performance and the show's mix of dry humour and domestic drama. Viewers rated it highly, with an average of 8.2/10 from 131 votes, noting themes of community, awkward social exchanges and recurring moral dilemmas that sustained audience interest across seasons, critics noted steady tone.