Ask any British sitcom fan about their favorite moments on TV, and you’re almost certain to hear about “Only Fools and Horses.” It’s more than just a show—it became a cultural legend. Since its first episode in 1981, it has made generations laugh. From Del Boy’s dodgy deals to Rodney’s bad luck, every episode brought something memorable. In this guide, we’re counting down the Top 10 funniest Only Fools and Horses episodes of all time.
These episodes are classic for a reason: hilarious writing, iconic acting, and perfectly timed comedy. If you’re looking for the funniest Del Boy episodes, you’ll find them right here. And if you’re new to the show, this list gives you the best place to start.
1. Yuppy Love (1989)
This episode gave us one of the greatest moments in British comedy history: Del Boy falling through the bar. It’s been voted as the top gag in multiple polls, including a BBC poll where it topped the list of best comedy moments of all time.
- Air Date: January 8, 1989
- Memorable Quote: “Play it cool, son, play it cool.”
That single scene, where Del is trying to act suave in a wine bar before collapsing onto the floor, is pure gold. But the whole episode shines with comic genius, especially seeing Del adjust to 80s yuppie culture.
2. Jolly Boys’ Outing (1989)
A fan favorite, this one captures everything that made the show great—chaos, laughter, and Camden Market suits.
- Air Date: December 25, 1989
- Location: Margate
This episode follows the annual coach trip to Margate that goes horribly wrong. The bus explodes, Mike ends up in jail, and Del rekindles a flame with an old love. It blends plot, characters, and comedy beautifully.
3. Heroes and Villains (1996)
No list of the best Only Fools and Horses comedy moments would be complete without this gem.
- Air Date: December 25, 1996
- Best Scene: Batman & Robin heads to the rescue
Del and Rodney decide to dress as Batman and Robin for a fancy dress party, but the twist—they got the date wrong. Still, their heroic chase through the fog made it one of the most watched British TV moments, with over 21.3 million tuning in.
4. Time on Our Hands (1996)
This isn’t just one of the funniest; it’s also the most touching.
- Viewership: 24.3 million (most viewed sitcom episode in UK TV history)
- Big Win: The Trotters finally become millionaires
Fans saw years of get-rich-quick schemes finally pay off. The punchlines fly, but so do the emotions. Trigger calling Rodney “Dave” one last time is just the icing on the cake.
5. A Touch of Glass (1982)
This episode gave British TV one of its most iconic visual gags: the Trotters smashing a priceless chandelier.
- Air Date: December 2, 1982
- Based On: Real incident told to writer John Sullivan
It’s simple slapstick, but it hits every laugh perfectly. BBC polls regularly place this moment among the funniest in sitcom history.
6. Chain Gang (1989)
Here, the Trotters get conned but turn the tables.
- Air Date: January 15, 1989
- Con man: Arnie, played by Philip McGough
Watching Arnie fake a heart attack while trying to fleece Del is hilarious. Classic setup, unexpected payoff.
7. The Unlucky Winner Is… (1989)
Rodney wins a painting competition meant for kids—and now he has to pretend he’s 14.
- Air Date: January 22, 1989
- Location: Costa Plonka, Spain
Seeing Rodney try to act like a teenager while on a holiday he so clearly doesn’t want is gut-busting. One of the funniest Del Boy episodes for sure.
8. Tea for Three (1986)
Love triangles and swinging chandeliers.
- Air Date: February 2, 1986
- Guest Star: Lisa, Rodney’s date
Del tries to steal Rodney’s crush, but everything quickly backfires. The dinner party scene is full of tension, charm, and brilliantly awkward comedy.
9. Stage Fright (1991)
Raquel’s big audition becomes a disaster, thanks to Tony Angelino, the singer who can’t pronounce his Rs.
- Air Date: December 25, 1991
- Classic Line: “Cwying”—instead of “crying”
The song scene leaves audiences howling. Raquel is mortified, Del is trying to salvage the moment, and Tony belts out songs in the worst way possible.
10. Danger UXD (1989)
Inflatable dolls filled with explosives? You bet.
- Air Date: January 29, 1989
- Object of chaos: Sex dolls contaminated with volatile gas
This is Del’s dodgiest deal yet. The visual of three inflatable dolls flying around the flat is pure farce. It sounds silly—and it is—but it’s comedy at its finest.
Viewership Ratings Comparison Table
Here’s how these episodes stacked up in UK ratings:
| Episode | First Air Date | Viewership (Millions) |
|---|---|---|
| Time on Our Hands | 1996-12-29 | 24.3 |
| Heroes and Villains | 1996-12-25 | 21.3 |
| Jolly Boys’ Outing | 1989-12-25 | 18.8 |
| Yuppy Love | 1989-01-08 | 15.1 |
| Danger UXD | 1989-01-29 | 14.8 |
(Source: BARB – Broadcasters’ Audience Research Board)
Why Do Fans Still Love It Today?
- The characters are real and easy to relate to.
- The humor never gets old.
- Each episode has heart, not just jokes.
Shows like “The Office” and “Peep Show” may have modern appeal, but “Only Fools and Horses” stands out for its unique mix of wit and warmth. It has fans both in the UK and around the world, and many episodes are still re-watched by millions on platforms like BBC iPlayer and bought on Amazon.
Suggestions for New Fans
If you’re just starting, begin with:
- Yuppy Love
- Heroes and Villains
- A Touch of Glass
- Jolly Boys’ Outing
These give a taste of both early and later styles. Then, go back and enjoy the full watch from season one.
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What Do You Think?
Which episode is your favorite? Did we miss one you think should be on the list? Share your top picks in the comments. And if you’ve got a favorite funniest Del Boy moment, let us know. There are no wrong answers—only great laughs to remember!