1991 was Emmerdale's 20th year. Production was largely overseen by Stuart Doughty until he was replaced by Morag Bain late in the year.

104 episodes were broadcast during the year. Storylines included the departure of Amos Brearly, Alan Turner taking over as the Woolpack landlord, the birth of Alice Bates, the death of Henry Wilks, the wedding of Chris Tate and Kathy Merrick and Jim Latimer's release from prison and subsequent kidnapping Sarah Connolly.