The BBC has released a sneak peek photo ahead of the much-anticipated ninth series of the reboot, asking fans: “What’s the Doctor up to?”

The Time Lord, played by Peter Capaldi, is seen striding away from the TARDIS in a barren and misty landscape.

This is the second series starring Peter as Doctor Who, with Jenna Coleman returning to play his companion, Clara.

Game of Thrones actress Maisie Williams will have a guest role, while Michelle Gomez will return as Missy.

Last week, Peter told Entertainment Weekly: ”There is an epic sweep to this season and I think the villains and monsters reflect that.

“Great new ones, brilliant old ones, and some very scary creatures looming in stories with real emotional ambition.”

The Twelfth Doctor teased: ”He’s in pursuit of joy and grabbing every thrill that he can along the way. But I sense him running from something, that even he does not yet understand.”

Peter Capaldi chair on Doctor Who set
(BBC)

Doctor Who airs on BBC One in the autumn.