The Fascinating History of Cryptic Crosswords
Angela Bell
- Regions:
- England, Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex
- Notice Period:
- Regular (more than one month's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: £80
- Category:
- Hobbies
- Updated:
- 6th March 2026
- Tagged:
- Cryptic Crosswords
Are you a cruciverbalist? Would you like to know more about how cryptic crosswords developed in the early 20th century and became part of our everyday culture in the UK? This talk will guide you through their history. Why are crosswords such a popular pastime, with around 7 million people tackling them each week. You'll learn about how crosswords were invented in the USA before crossing the atlantic; how they were used to recruit codebreakers in the dark days of World War II; and how they have developed since then using the lates digital media.
Views: 12 | Enquiries: 0About Angela Bell
I am interested in the local history of Suffolk, where I have lived for the last 20 years. I am happy to share my knowledge with groups in East Anglia. I also have a special interest in canal boating, as an owner of a 58 foot syndicate boat called Honeystreet, having explored most of the waterways network of the UK over the last 16 years. In my spare time I enjoy cryptic crosswords and have run several courses about how to solve these, both in face to face sessions and online.
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