Guardian Readers

Guardian readers nominate the television finales that make them happiest, highlighting emotionally resonant endings from Friday Night Dinner, Superstore, Heated Rivalry, The Good Place, Scrubs, Ghosts, Sleepers, M*A*S*H, Six Feet Under and Schitt’s Creek. Their selections emphasize friendship, family, romance, personal growth, acceptance and satisfying closure, with several finales made more poignant by themes of mortality, farewell and the real-life death of actor Paul Ritter.

Readers recommend river-based walks, cycling routes and boating trips across Britain and Ireland, highlighting the River Wharfe in Yorkshire, the Bure in the Norfolk Broads, Coventry’s River Sowe, Edinburgh’s Water of Leith, the Welland, Ireland’s Shannon, York’s Ouse, the Tees and the Ouse Valley Way. The tips combine practical route details with attractions, wildlife, historic sites, pubs and cafés, showing how rivers provide access to both rural landscapes and urban nature. Notable experiences include a five-day, 65-mile walk from the Welland’s source to the sea, cruising the Shannon and Bure, and following rivers through York, the Yorkshire Dales and the South Downs.

Readers describe journeys inspired by books, including visits to Northern Ireland after reading Dervla Murphy, Sarajevo after Priscilla Morris, Porquerolles after Georges Simenon, San Francisco after Armistead Maupin, and destinations across Britain, France, Italy, Canada and the Mediterranean. The trips generally deepen readers’ appreciation of local landscapes, history, communities and cultural memory, demonstrating how fiction and travel writing can shape powerful real-world experiences.

Guardian readers give sharply mixed reactions to Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. Many praise its immense scale, visual and sound design, action, performances and emotional treatment of Odysseus’s guilt and redemption. Critics argue that the adaptation turns the morally complex Odysseus into a conventional hero, removes or alters important Homeric elements, relies too heavily on Hollywood casting and American accents, and can feel formulaic or emotionally hollow. Readers also raise concerns about the film’s treatment of women, its depiction of Greek culture, and filming in occupied Western Sahara. Despite these objections, several regard it as an ambitious, effective summertime blockbuster that may encourage audiences to return to Homer’s original poem.

Guardian readers recommend food festivals across Europe, highlighting the Lemon Festival in Menton, Italy’s Tiramisù World Cup and leek and pork-cheek celebrations in Piedmont and Tuscany. UK recommendations include festivals and markets in Malton, Newcastle, Bolton and Plymouth, while Dingle’s food festival showcases Irish seafood, cheese and small-town hospitality. Bern’s Zibelemärit onion fair is praised for its local produce and connection to Swiss farming traditions. Across the recommendations, regional specialties, community atmosphere, live entertainment and authentic local experiences are recurring attractions.

Fans across the United States, Mexico and Canada largely concluded that the 2026 World Cup was a surprising success, with international supporters, multicultural celebrations and lively fan parks creating memorable experiences. Contributors praised hospitality, public enthusiasm and improvements in some host cities, especially Vancouver, Toronto, Atlanta and Seattle. However, high ticket prices, FIFA’s commercialism, uneven atmospheres between cities, transport problems and the tournament’s widely criticized political associations—particularly with Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino—tempered the celebration. Many felt the fans and host communities overcame institutional failures and political controversy to make the tournament a positive cultural event.

Around 400 Guardian readers describe what they want from Andy Burnham after he becomes prime minister, emphasizing honesty, integrity, courage, effective communication, fairness and compassion. Their main policy priorities are tackling the climate crisis, reducing inequality and living costs, investing in housing and public services, reforming health and social care, and supporting young people. Respondents also call for stronger action on Gaza, closer relations with the EU, increased defense funding, electoral reform and a more compassionate approach to immigration. Several stress that Burnham must deliver a small number of major reforms, explain difficult choices openly and secure a democratic mandate for his government.

Readers recommend a variety of family-friendly UK day trips, ranging from boat tours on Lower Lough Erne and Glasgow’s Riverside Museum to Bolsover Castle, Walthamstow Wetlands and walking routes in the Cotswolds. Other suggestions include Woolsthorpe Manor, the Forbidden Corner in the Yorkshire Dales, Puzzlewood in Gloucestershire, Rushmere country park and fruit-picking at Crockford Bridge farm. The tips highlight natural beauty, historical interest, interactive museums and affordable outdoor activities suited to all ages.

Fans share personal stories highlighting Sam Neill’s warmth, humor and influence, recalling his performances, generosity and cultural impact. Memories range from inspiring careers and shaping life decisions to moments of kindness, such as gifting wine to musicians and supporting social justice in New Zealand. Neill’s roles in films and television continue to resonate deeply with admirers across generations.

Readers highlight a diverse range of standout albums released in 2026, praising them for emotional depth, inventive songwriting and strong performances. Featured artists include Muna, Raye, J Cole, Maya Hawke, Arlo Parks, and Gorillaz, along with several others whose work resonated through personal storytelling, musical experimentation or long-awaited returns. Across genres from pop and soul to hip‑hop and folk, listeners describe these albums as impactful, joyful, cathartic or technically impressive, reflecting a vibrant year in music so far.

Readers describe cooler European coastal destinations including Latvia’s Saulkrasti, Brittany in France, Finland’s Yyteri beach, Norway’s Varangerfjord, Poland’s Sopot, Ireland’s Fanad peninsula, Iceland’s Akureyri, Spain’s Gijón, Germany’s Greifswald and Sweden’s Sandhammaren, highlighting scenery, activities, mild climates and local attractions as alternatives to hotter southern destinations.

Fans around the world shared vivid and emotional accounts of watching England’s dramatic World Cup victory over Mexico, describing late‑night viewings, anxious moments during key decisions, and celebrations that spanned from Mexico City to Tokyo and Buenos Aires. Many recounted disrupted sleep, improvised viewing setups, and the intensity of experiencing the match live, while others highlighted the global connections forged through the shared drama. Supporters praised standout England players and reflected on the atmosphere in host cities, with mixed loyalties emerging for those with ties to both nations.

Readers share favourite Greek holiday experiences, from beaches, boat trips and hikes to archaeological sites and small island villages. Tips highlight Milos’s volcanic landscapes, Symi’s quiet coves, Hydra’s restorative calm, Kassopi’s ancient ruins, and adventures across Kefalonia, Ithaca and the Vikos gorge. Each contribution centres on scenery, relaxation or personal memories, offering a varied portrait of Greece’s islands and mainland as rewarding destinations.

Host city residents across the US, Mexico and Canada describe how initial skepticism about the World Cup has given way to enthusiasm as vibrant fan celebrations transform local atmospheres. Fans from around the world mingle in festive environments, with cities such as Kansas City, Monterrey, Dallas, Philadelphia, Toronto and Vancouver reporting lively gatherings and strong community spirit. While some highlight logistical challenges or frustrations with Fifa pricing, most emphasize joy, cultural exchange and the unifying effect of the tournament’s presence.

Readers describe memorable European hikes ranging from Italy’s Amalfi coast and Lake Garda to Poland’s Tatra Mountains, Georgia’s Svaneti region, Sweden’s Kungsleden Trail, Austria’s Wildschönau valley, Spain’s Ruta del Cares, Switzerland’s Bernese Alps and Portugal’s Algarve. Submissions highlight dramatic scenery, accessible routes, local food, wildlife encounters, family‑friendly trails and the benefits of reliable transport links, with the winning tip praising Lake Garda’s cliffside Ponale Path for its views and welcoming stops along the way.

Readers highlight a range of standout TV series from 2026, praising them for strong acting, inventive storytelling, emotional depth and topical themes. The selections span crime thrillers, sci-fi dramas, character-driven comedies and sensitive portrayals of challenging subjects, with platforms including Netflix, Apple TV, HBO Max, BBC and Channel 4 earning consistent acclaim. The shows are commended for sharp writing, complex characters and the ability to balance intensity with humor, reaffirming 2026 as a strong year for television.

Readers share personal stories about the Spielberg films that most affected them, highlighting emotional memories, childhood experiences, and the lasting resonance of titles such as ET, Close Encounters, Raiders of the Lost Ark and others. Each contribution reflects on why a particular film became meaningful, ranging from nostalgia and personal identification to admiration for Spielberg’s storytelling and visual mastery.

Readers highlight favourite seaside hotels across Europe, praising distinctive settings, coastal views, nostalgic charm and strong value. Recommendations span Italy, France, Spain, Greece and Norway, emphasizing design, affordability, scenic locations and memorable guest experiences, with each hotel offering a unique atmosphere from art deco elegance to remote Scandinavian beach style.

Readers recount disastrous holidays ranging from being lodged unknowingly in a hotel targeted by the IRA in Belfast to a chaotic honeymoon marked by constant mishaps, a near‑drowning with shark sightings in Fiji, and the terror of Hawaii’s false ballistic‑missile alert. The stories accompany television dramas about nightmare vacations and highlight moments of danger, fear and unexpected survival.

Readers describe standout European road trips, highlighting Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway with bear sightings, a 1,000‑mile loop through Ireland, fjord‑side driving in Norway, Iceland’s scenic ring road, a historic journey to Orkney, Bavaria’s Romantic Road and a winning route across Italy’s Abruzzo Apennines featuring dramatic landscapes, cultural sites and notable food stops.

Fans express excitement for the 2026 World Cup while criticizing high ticket prices, travel costs, corruption and the political climate in the United States. Concerns focus on Fifa’s governance, US immigration enforcement and the influence of Donald Trump, yet many still anticipate memorable matches and the global community the tournament brings. Perspectives vary widely across countries, ranging from boycotts to deep enthusiasm for national teams and the event’s unique atmosphere.

Readers describe family-friendly holidays across Europe, highlighting activities such as sailing in Devon, zip-lining in Wales, exploring Lake Garda, relaxing in Menorca, and enjoying nature in the Åland Islands. Additional tips include multi‑generational camping in Brittany and child‑focused attractions in the Netherlands such as Madurodam and the Utrecht railway museum.

Fans across 16 World Cup host cities describe a mix of excitement and frustration, with soaring ticket prices, complex purchasing systems and perceived corporate priorities undermining enthusiasm. Many express concern about political tensions, safety, visa restrictions and infrastructure challenges in the US and Mexico. While some cities anticipate vibrant fan cultures, others report minimal local buzz. Despite widespread disillusionment with Fifa and the tournament’s organisation, most fans still hope for strong football, positive atmospheres and safe, unifying experiences.

Readers describe favourite coastal walks around the UK, highlighting scenic routes in Anglesey, Galloway, East Yorkshire, Teesside, the Isle of Man, Pembrokeshire, the Bristol Channel, Southend, south Devon and the Highlands. Their accounts emphasise dramatic landscapes, accessible paths, wildlife sightings, secluded beaches and local food stops, offering a diverse set of recommendations for walking enthusiasts.

Readers share personal memories of Stephen Colbert and The Late Show, emphasizing the show's emotional importance during Covid, its pointed critiques of Donald Trump and Republican politics, and Colbert’s mix of humor, empathy, and political commentary. Fans recall standout moments including his responses to the January 6 attack, interviews marked by compassion, comedic impersonations, and live-show experiences. Many describe the show as a source of comfort and clarity during turbulent years, celebrating Colbert’s influence and expressing gratitude following the show’s end.

Readers describe memorable European rail journeys, highlighting dramatic alpine routes, historic locomotives, slow scenic lines and striking urban rail moments. Experiences span Norway’s fjord‑side routes, central European cross‑border trains, Tuscany’s vintage steam service, Brandenburg’s narrow‑gauge line, Switzerland’s alpine railway, the Belgrade–Bar mountain route, Italy’s Apennine crossing, the watchmakers’ line into Switzerland, the Pyrenean Little Yellow Train and Porto’s dramatic metro crossing of the Dom Luís I bridge.

Readers highlight favourite UK trips, from exploring Wells and its film locations to wild camping in the west Highlands, coastal walks in East Lothian and family-friendly visits to Devon. Other recommendations include cycling the Northumberland coast, staying at a community hostel in the Outer Hebrides, visiting filming spots in West Yorkshire, exploring castles in Ayrshire, relaxing in Snowdonia and touring Hadrian’s Wall by public transport.

Readers from across the poetry community commemorate Carol Rumens, celebrating her nearly two decades of Poem of the Week columns and her influence as a generous mentor, critic and advocate for poets worldwide. Tributes highlight her clarity of thought, eclectic taste, kindness and support for emerging writers, as well as her lasting impact in introducing new voices to readers and fostering an engaged poetic community.