The latest cryptic crossword puzzle offers an intriguing set of clues designed to challenge avid solvers. With a mix of clever wordplay and lateral thinking, this puzzle is sure to keep enthusiasts engaged.
Across Clues
1. Endless love for free entertainment is evident here. (8 letters)
5. Not exactly the sea, but it’s still inside it. (6 letters)
9. Staying fashionable involves purchasing from this type of establishment. (3, 5 letters)
10. A person who is captivated is often referred to as happy. (6 letters)
11. A regular flow occurring later in the day. (8 letters)
12. The late rounds of the World Cup occur in countries like the Netherlands, Belarus, and Wales. (6 letters)
14. To relish, one might say, “Choose a flower.” (10 letters)
18. Admiration for neat dancing is renewed with energy. (10 letters)
22. It’s said people overcome the challenge of a hard nut. (6 letters)
23. A gaoler rearranges quarters for women. (8 letters)
24. Totally comfortable being with Dorothy’s pet. (2, 4 letters)
25. An ancient city’s prison where pictures might initially be displayed. (8 letters)
26. This significant exercise aims to catch a fly. (6 letters)
27. Love plays a role in breaking down the stronghold of a large town. (8 letters)
Down Clues
1. Achieving a significant goal requires time to break. (6 letters)
2. Terrifying a young bird is something a beagle is caught doing. (6 letters)
3. Developing skills to be found in numerous beds. (6 letters)
4. An old Soviet officer was previously safely enclosed. (3, 7 letters)
6. A breakfast fit for a king, albeit not a regular one. (7, 1 letters)
7. Is the puzzle creator appearing friendly on the TV? (8 letters)
8. A home-savvy maid. (8 letters)
13. A cold salad component almost consumed; hurry up! (10 letters)
15. The cost integrates part of a play rehearsal. (8 letters)
16. Demonstrating innate talent in drawing. (8 letters)
17. Managing to avoid the son, albeit unsteadily. (8 letters)
19. Tasteless stuff features in a pageant along with other items. (6 letters)
20. Strolling a short distance while holding some kind of lime or maybe soda. (6 letters)
21. A play by Will filled with errors, while Dante’s was considered divine. (6 letters)
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.