Guardian Puzzles Summer Special: Upgrade Your Downtime 2026

Riku Haruto
Guardian Puzzles Summer Special: Upgrade Your Downtime
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The Guardian has launched its annual Puzzles summer special, a 32-page print supplement designed to upgrade your downtime with crosswords, brainteasers, and more. Curated by puzzles editor Alan Evans, this year's edition features top puzzle setters including Alex Bellos, Thomas Eaton, Frank Paul, and Alan Connor, offering something for every puzzler from beginners to experts.

What's Inside the Guardian Puzzles Summer Special?

World-Class Logic Championship Puzzles

Test your brain against official challenges set at the 32nd World Puzzle Championships in Eger, Hungary, recently won by the UK's Freddie Hand. These logic championship puzzles will push even the most seasoned puzzle enthusiasts to their limits.


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A Summer Metapuzzle to Solve

Hidden throughout the issue, 34 blue-colored puzzle answers spell out a secret phrase linked to a major historic event that took place 61 years ago on 25 July 1965. This summer metapuzzle adds an extra layer of intrigue for dedicated solvers.

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Crosswords for Every Skill Level

Features a jumbo cryptic by Paul, a beginner-friendly quick cryptic by Dice, a US-style maxi by Brassica, a jumbo by Sy, and Alan Connor's now-traditional “Most Guardian Crossword Ever.” Whether you're a cryptic crossword veteran or just starting, there's a puzzle for you.

Quizzer's Paradise

Picture rounds and interactive trivia like “Who were we talking about?” challenge readers to identify global stars from early Guardian media profiles, alongside Thomas Eaton's popular Saturday quiz. This quizzer's paradise keeps the fun going beyond crosswords.

Comparison of Puzzle Types

Puzzle Type Setter Difficulty
Jumbo Cryptic Frank Paul Hard
Quick Cryptic Dice Easy
US-style Maxi Brassica Medium
Jumbo Sy Medium
Most Guardian Crossword Ever Alan Connor Hard

Key Takeaways

  • 32-page print supplement available on Saturday 25 July
  • Includes world-class logic puzzles, a summer metapuzzle, and crosswords for all levels
  • Features top puzzle setters like Alex Bellos, Thomas Eaton, and Frank Paul
  • Reaches over 2 million monthly puzzle players online
  • Perfect for upgrading your downtime this summer

FAQ

When is the Guardian Puzzles summer special released?

It is released on Saturday 25 July.

Where can I buy the supplement?

The supplement is included in the Guardian print edition on that date. You can also access many puzzles online at the Guardian's puzzles section.

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Who are the puzzle setters featured?

The special features Alex Bellos, Thomas Eaton, Frank Paul, Alan Connor, and others, curated by puzzles editor Alan Evans.

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Riku Haruto

Author

Riku Haruto

Riku is a seasoned gaming journalist with decades of experience covering industry trends, game reviews, and esports analysis. He has contributed to leading gaming publications and consulted for top developers on player engagement strategies. Jason's deep expertise and trusted insights make him a respected voice in the gaming community.


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