Today’s blog explains a puzzle by Encota, who is a setter who has appeared in the Inquisitor five times previously, dating back to September 2017. All the puzzles have had completely different themes, so it will be interesting to see what we have this week.
Independent 12,227 by Phi
Phi ventures out of his usual Friday schedule to set today’s challenge.
Guardian 29,879 / Chandler
A fairly rare appearance by Chandler in the Cryptic slot
Financial Times 18,240 by GAFF
This remarkable workout from Gaff bears the epigraph “A birthday puzzle” . . .
Spectator 2731 Knots by Pabulum
I understand that Pabulum no longer contributes regularly but this is a welcome return …
Guardian Cryptic crossword No 29,878 by Vulcan
Apologies for the delayed blog, I’m currently travelling and couldn’t fit this in earlier. Many thanks to Vulcan for the puzzle.
Independent 12,226/Hoskins
Harry has compiled the Monday crossword for Indy readers in trademark fashion.
Financial Times 18,239 by GOZO
GOZO kicks off the week…
Financial Times 18,238 by Guy
Puzzle from the Weekend FT of December 13, 2025
Guardian Quiptic 1,360 by Carpathian
The weekly online only cryptic crossword from the Guardian, found here
Azed No. 2,773 Plain – Competition Puzzle
I feel privileged to have received an Azed puzzle for my turn at this blog.
Everyman 4,129/7 December
Another pleasing puzzle from Everyman with the usual trademark clues. I have the sense from comments in recent weeks that some of our solvers outside the UK are having difficulty accessing the Everyman puzzle, but I hope they have found a way round that so that they can contribute their thoughts on this one.
Independent on Sunday 1,868 by Filbert
Thank you to Filbert. Definitions are underlined in the clues.
Spoiler Alert – FT
The solution published as 18,232 is actually the solution to today’s puzzle 18,238.
Independent 12,225 by Tack
The puzzle is available to solve online or download here.