As part of the tour itinerary your trip will begin with welcome drinks and an opportunity to meet your Tour Manager and fellow tour group members. Also included is a highlight of many Howzat trips - our popular Cricket Dinner will be back in Australia. Hosted by your Tour Manager and featuring a special guest, with past guests including Michael Atherton, Michael Vaughan, Steve Harmison, Jonathan Agnew, Marais Erasmus and many, many more this is a fantastic opportunity to get a unique insight into the game.
A Howzat Tour Manager will be with you in Australia to make sure that your time spent on tour is a memorable and enjoyable experience. Our Tour Managers are cricket fanatics, well travelled and vastly experienced. They will be joined in Australia by a support team and the Howzat office team are all cricket fans who have travelled overseas watching England play, including to multiple Ashes series.
Optional sightseeing excursions
To ensure that you can enjoy Australia to its fullest and enjoy the sightseeing & events that you want to do we will be offering a variety of optional excursions. We strive to give you flexibility, please contact us if you are looking to add elements to or extend your trip.
The Cricket Experts
Howzat have been touring to Australia for many years. We pride ourselves on delivering a personal service for England cricket fans by England cricket fans. Whilst it will have been 8 years since travelling fans have been in the crowd since the Ashes Series in Australia, we have been touring Australia more recently with groups attending the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup and the team having made multiple familiarisation trips since. We’re ready to make the 2025/26 NRMA Insurance Ashes Series Tour one for the history books.
Forward Defence
We are both ABTA and ATOL protected, ensuring you can book and travel with complete confidence and peace of mind.
Full itinerary
Day
1
Depart UK
Make your own way to the airport, check in/drop your bags off and make your way through customs. Once through customs make your way to the gate to board your indirect flight to Australia.
London Heathrow to Doha
Economy class flight from London included with upgrades available; return Business Class upgrades available for +£6,200pp. Return Premium Economy upgrade on request (see extras tab). Departure points from Manchester or Birmingham on request (see extras tab).
Departs:
15:30
Arrives:
01:10+1
Airline:
Qatar Airways
Doha to Perth
Departs:
02:45
Arrives:
18:45
Airline:
Qatar Airways
Day
2
Arrive Australia
Arriving into Perth, you have some time to clear customs and immigration, collect your bags and meet your Tour Manager who will arrange your transfer with the group to your hotel to check-in for 9 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.
The stunning city of Perth perfectly embodies the idea of having 'the best of both worlds,' where gentle sandy beaches and picturesque parks blend seamlessly with a vibrant urban landscape filled with unique bars and innovative restaurants.
This evening the group will get together with the Tour Manager for Welcome Drinks. Get to know your tour group and tour manager, reminisce on past tours and trips and share the excitement of The Ashes!
Welcome Drinks
In the evening, you are invited to join your Tour Manager and the rest of your group for welcome drinks. This will also be an ideal chance for you to meet your fellow Howzat Travellers.
Day
3
Day at Leisure
Delight in discovering the capital of Western Australia, where the Swan River flows into the stunning southwestern coastline. Perth boasts a beautiful shoreline and an abundance of activities, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from.
If you are looking to stay in the city you can catch one of the free buses up to Kings Park for beautiful views across the city skyline and a walk into the city's botanical gardens. We will also have optional excursions available for you to choose from if you are looking for an organised excursion/ activity for the day.
Day
4-7
Australia v England - 1st NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
The NRMA Insurance Ashes Perth Test is at the new stadium in Perth for the first time - and what an incredible stadium it is. Make your own way to and from the stadium at leisure each day. The stadium has fantastic public transport networks with a dedicated train station that offers free travel to all match ticket holders on matchdays. Alternatively, there are free buses that take you past the WACA and drop you a short walk across the pedestrian river bridge, there aren’t many more beautiful walks to a ground in the sporting world.
1st NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
Play Starts:
TBC
Day
8-10
Days at Leisure
Enjoy 2 days at leisure in the beautiful city of Perth.
These days are the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate! Choose a tranquil spot on one of the pristine white-sand beaches and bask in the sunlight while diving into a good book; our top pick is Cottesloe, easily accessible by train. Alternatively, consider taking a ferry to the famous Rottnest Island, where you can snap a photo with one of the 10,000 adorable Quokkas that inhabit the area, or venture into Swan Valley, one of Australia’s most esteemed wine regions. An evening in Fremantle, sampling some iconic fish and chips paired with a drink at the delightful Little Creatures brewery, is also highly recommended.
Day
11
Perth to Sydney
Check out of your hotel this morning and transfer with the group to the airport for your flight to Sydney, Australia's largest city. Brimming with iconic attractions and brilliant beaches, Sydney is the perfect stop for some exploring before the 2nd Test. On arrival, check in to your hotel for a 4 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
If you have seen another option you would like, or have plans to visit somewhere else in Australia for these four nights, give us a call and we can discuss the options with you.
Perth to Sydney
Departs:
TBC
Arrives:
TBC
Airline:
TBC
Day
12-14
Days at Leisure
Enjoy 3 days at leisure in Sydney. As perhaps the most famous attraction in the city, The Sydney Opera House is a must-see for first time visitors and return travellers alike. Sitting on the beautiful harbourfront, The Sydney Opera House offers bookable tours and over 1,500 performances every year. The Opera House bar sits close by, with a great atmosphere and lovely views both day and night over the harbour.
Alternatively, why not visit the popular Bondi Beach to check out its vibrant atmosphere and surfing culture. A popular walk in this area is the Bondi to Coogee coastal route, with its dramatic scenery and plentiful swim stops for a refreshing dip.
In the evening, we suggest heading over to Darling Harbour for some of Sydney's best food and drinks spots. Most weekends, you will also be able to enjoy fireworks over the harbour from many of the restaurants and bars here, making for a great evening.
Day
15
Sydney to Brisbane
Check out of your hotel this morning and transfer with the group to the airport for your flight to Brisbane for the 2nd Test. On arrival, check in to your hotel for a 7 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
Sydney to Brisbane
Departs:
TBC
Arrives:
TBC
Airline:
TBC
Day
16
Day at Leisure
Today you have a day at leisure in Brisbane. Why not take a ferry over to Moreton Island where you have an array of experiences available to you, including whale watching, kayaking and snorkelling.
This evening, head to Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s vibrant dining and lifestyle precinct, which is just a-10 minute walk from Brisbane's CBD. This once-neglected piece of land has been transformed and is now a bustling pedestrian boardwalk lined with restaurants, bars, hotels, and event spaces.
Howzat Cricket Dinner
Tonight enjoy the Howzat Cricket Dinner – these are the highlight of many trips, hosted by your Tour Manager and featuring a special guest from the cricketing world!
Day
17-21
Australia v England - 2nd NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
The NRMA Insurance Ashes Brisbane Test is a day/night match. Make your own way to The Gabba which is walking distance from most of the hotels on offer. Public transport links in Brisbane are excellent, and free on matchdays with a match ticket.
Traditionally, The Gabba hosts the first Test of the Australian summer, so hopefully a change in schedule will equate to a change in England's horror record in Brisbane.
NRMA Insurance Ashes Day/Night Test
Play Starts:
TBC
Day
22
Depart Australia
Check out of your hotel this morning and transfer with the group to the airport to check in and clear security before boarding your indirect flight back home.
Brisbane to Doha
Departs:
21:55
Arrives:
05:45+1
Airline:
Qatar Airways
Doha to London Heathrow
Departs:
07:40
Arrives:
12:15
Airline:
Qatar Airways
Day
23
Arrive UK
Upon arrival back into the UK, clear customs and make your own onward arrangements. We hope that you head home with some fantastic lasting memories and new friendships formed from a special trip to Australia.
Tickets
Venue
Category & Location
Perth
Category B - Level 1 West Mid-Wicket
Brisbane
Category B - Southern Stand Upper Mid-Wicket
A 5 day ticket is included in your package. Days 1-4 in the category listed. Should the Test go to the fifth day, day 5 will be a General Admission ticket. Ticket locations and descriptions are provided by Cricket Australia and are subject to change and amendment until venue maps are finalised by Cricket Australia.
1st NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
Play Starts: TBC
This marks England's inaugural Test match at this stadium. It's daunting challenge, considering Australia boast an unbeaten record in Test matches here since the replacement of the renowned WACA. Stokes and McCullum will be eager to embark on a solid beginning in Perth, especially following England's sluggish start in the previous home Ashes series, which proved decisive.
Tickets:
Category B - Level 1 West Mid-Wicket
Venue:
Perth Stadium, Perth
Capacity:
60,000
2nd NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
Play Starts: TBC - this is a day/night Test
The Gabba, unaffectionately known as 'The Gabbatoir' and cherished by the late Shane Warne, has not proven to be a favourable venue for England. Since World War II, the team has managed just two Test victories on this ground. Typically hosting the first Test of the Australian summer, this year’s adjustment in the usual scheduling might bring a shift in England's fortunes as they aim to rectify that record.
Tickets:
Category B - Southern Stand Upper Mid-Wicket
Venue:
The Gabba, Brisbane
Capacity:
42,000
Accommodation
Pan Pacific Perth Hotel,
Perth
The Pan Pacific is a luxury hotel popular with cricket fans. Just a short walk down to the river or across to the WACA, this hotel is perfectly located in Perth to ensure easy access to the city's best sights. Perth is known for its lovely warm weather, which guests can enjoy with a refreshing dip in the hotel's outdoor pool.
Features:
Onsite Sports Bar
Outdoor swimming pool
We chose this hotel because:
Located next to the Swan River in Perth’s CBD
30 mins via public transport to Perth Stadium
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney ,
Sydney
The award winning Amora Jamison in Sydney combines style, space and warmth. From the moment you arrive at the hotel you will experience the Amora difference. With recently refurbished rooms, two restaurants and a bar offering exceptional wining and dining facilities there is sophistication and luxury throughout the hotel. There is a heated indoor pool, steam room, sauna and gym. The newly refurbished rooms have views overlooking the city skyline or Jamison Street and are located on floors 4-21. An easy walk from Circular Quay, The Rocks and the Botanical Gardens puts this hotel at the heart of where you would want to be in Sydney.
Features:
Indoor heated swimming pool
Silo Bar
We chose this hotel because:
Fantastic location, walking distance from Circular Quay
Popular hotel on previous tours to Australia
Hyatt Regency Brisbane Hotel,
Brisbane
Located on Queen Street Mall in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, the 5-star Hyatt Regency is a premium retreat featuring 292 well-appointed and newly refurbished rooms. The hotel features various unique food & beverage venues as well as their signature outdoor, heated 20-metre infinity pool ideal for unwinding in after a day’s exploration.
Features:
On-site restaurant and bar
Impressive heated outdoor swimming pool
We chose this hotel because:
Newly refurbished rooms offer stunning views of Brisbane River or the city skyline
Located directly on Queen Street Mall, it's within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Upgrade to a High Floor room for +£200pp based on double occupancy or +£400pp based on single occupancy
Extras
Perth – Swan Valley Wine Cruise - 26/11/2025
+ £120pp
Your day cruise starts in central Perth, where you hop aboard your boat and set off up the Swan River, a scenic waterway that stretches from the city into Western Australia’s Swan Valley wine region. Enjoy a welcome drink on board, followed by a wine tasting of premium ‘wines of the month’ from regional vineyards, accompanied by a share platter lunch.
As you listen to narration about the history and geography of the river and valley, admire views of Perth’s suburbs and the picturesque scenery outside the city. Hop off the boat at Mandoon Estate*, for a wine and macaron pairing experience.
After reboarding the boat to cruise back to Perth, enjoy live entertainment, tantalizing desserts, and all-inclusive wines on your return to the city. Your cruise ends when you arrive at the departure point.
*please note this tour starts from Barrack Street Jetty. We will require full dietary requirements for each passenger
Start Time: 10:30 (approx.)
End Time: 17:00 (approx.)
Inclusions: Cruise, share platter lunch, wine tastings on board, wine and macaron pairing at Mandoon Estate
Excludes: drinks, additional food, gratuities, hotel pick up
Please note minimum numbers are required to operate this tour. Passengers must be 18 or over to participate.
Perth - Pinnacles Tour Sunset Stargazing - 26/11/2025
+£89 per person
Enjoy a star-studded adventure of twinkling twilight and wildlife in the native wonderland of the Pinnacles. Leave behind city life for a one-day treat to some of Western Australia’s best natural wonders.
After 1.5 hours from Perth, our first stop is to stretch our legs and take in the views from the seaside town of Lancelin, home to the largest network of sand dunes in Western Australia. These gigantic snow-white dunes are a stark contrast to the glistening turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean in the distance.
Shake the sand out of your shoes, before we travel on to the Nilgen Nature Reserve. In a region abundant with flora and fauna, we’ll wander through a kaleidoscopic of wildflowers, including the likes of banksias, bottlebrush, heath, grass trees, and kangaroo paws; all bursting with life, when in season. If the flowers are in hiding, we’ll instead head over to Hangover Bay, where you can dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters or spot the likes of bottlenose dolphins and sea lions.
With our lungs full of fresh sea air, it’s time to journey onto the Nambung National Park to witness the remarkable Pinnacles Desert. These remarkable formations date back millions of years to a time when this land was submerged beneath the sea. Thousands of limestone pillars rise dramatically from the desert landscape. We’ll first stop at the Tourist Information Discovery Centre to learn about their fascinating history before walking a few hundred metres to get up close to these incredible structures. Best explored at dusk when the crowds evaporate and the thousands of limestone pillars rise eerily out of the desert; watch the colours change over the rocks, creating a lunar-like atmosphere.
Enjoy a picnic dinner accompanied by a glass of local sparkling, while we settle in for a spectacular light show of natural wonder, beneath the sky. As the darkness sets, it’s time to marvel at the otherworldly beauty of the stars and planets, swirling high above. Listen to the ancient stories of the Aboriginal Dreamtime and gaze light-years away.
*please let our team know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements
Walking distance: ~1-2km
Start Time: 12:00 (approx.)
End Time: 21:30 (approx.)
Inclusions: Return hotel transfers, experienced driver/guide, Dinner under the stars with glass of sparkling wine, Telescope provided, National Park fees
Excludes: drinks, additional food, gratuities
Perth – Rottnest Island Day Trip - 27/11/2025
+ £125pp
Join us on the Grand Island Tour of Rottnest, taking in all of Rottnest Island’s natural attractions and historical landmarks. From spectacular beaches to unspoiled salt lakes, we cover all the major habitats on this amazing tour. You'll learn about Rottnest Island's cultural and historical heritage ranging from maritime and military history right up to its promising future.
Depart from Barrack Street Jetty for the ferry across to Rottnest Island. Upon arrival to Rottnest Island, meet at the Settlement Train Station to board the heritage train for the ride to Oliver Hill. This is followed by a tour of the historic Oliver Hill WWII Gun Fortification and Tunnels to learn about the rich military history of this island. A light sandwich lunch is provided at Oliver Hill before commencing on the guided bus tour of the island, taking in the highlights of Rottnest island including the incredible lookout points at the rugged Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh. At the end of the tour, return to Perth on the ferry, experiencing an entirely new view of the city skyline.
*please note this tour starts from Barrack Street Jetty (approx. 10 minute walk from your hotel)
Start Time: 08:30 (approx.)
End Time: 18:00 (approx.)
Accessibility – please note that accessing the Oliver Hill Guns & Tunnels involves up to 60 steps
Inclusions: Return ferry transfers from Perth, Grand Island Tour, light sandwich lunch, Rottnest Island Government Admission Fee
Excludes: drinks, additional food, gratuities, hotel pick up
Please note minimum numbers are required to operate this tour
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb - Summit Day - 29/11/2025
+£180 per person
Experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney, whilst scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge on BridgeClimb’s original Climb experience. Feel on top of the world as you journey along the upper arch to the peak of an Australian icon, soaking in the stories from your expert Climb Leader and the sights of the Harbour and the City skyline that surround you.
Highlights & Inclusions
1,332 steps
BridgeClimb’s signature experience
This Climb route takes you along the upper arch of the Bridge
Certificate of achievement
BridgeClimb cap
Bridge and Sydney history commentary
Dedicated Climb Leader for every 14 Climbers
An unforgettable experience
Plus, let's not forget those 360 degree views!
If climbers are 75 years of age, or older, they can Climb with a BridgeClimb Certificate of Fitness signed by their GP. Please ask our team for a copy of this form and bring it with you on the day. (Please note the Certificate of Fitness must have been completed within the last three months prior to your Climb date).
Excludes: transport from hotel
Start Time – 10:15-11:35 (duration: 3 hours)
Please note this tour is subject to minimum numbers being met.
Sydney - Sunset Harbour Dinner Cruise - 30/11/2025
+£65 per person
Watch the aquamarine colours of Sydney's iconic landscape give way to the warm orange hues of sunset as you set sail through Sydney Harbour past many of the cities iconic landmarks. Enjoy a 3-course menu* during this 2-hour circuit which will take you past the natural beauty of this fantastic city.
Please note the cruise departs at 5pm from King Street Wharf No.1 Darling Harbour. It is recommended to check in at least 20 minutes prior to departure.
*please let our team know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements
Dress code: Smart Casual
Inclusions: 3 course dinner, live music, up to 2 hours cruising of Sydney Harbour
Excludes: Transport from hotel, drinks
Start Time: 17:00 (approx.)
End Time: 19:00 (approx.)
Please note this tour is subject to minimum numbers being met.
Blue Mountains Adventure Day Trip - 1/12/2025
+£130 per person
Discover the Ultimate Blue Mountains experience, designed to showcase the best of this UNESCO World Heritage site. You will be picked up from (or very close to) your hotel and return via a ferry ride on the famous Sydney Harbour where the tour concludes at Circular Quay. From here make your own way back to your accommodation at your own leisure.
The tour makes stops at the Blue Mountains township of Glenbrook, Elysian Rock lookout, and Echo Point where you’ll witness the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and learn about Aboriginal legends. From here, venture on to Scenic World to experience the thrill of the Scenic Railway, the world’s steepest passenger railway. Glide above the rainforest canopy on the Scenic Skyway and enjoy panoramic views of the Blue Mountains on the iconic gondola. Embark on a guided walk through the rainforest to learn about unique flora and fauna before your visit to Katoomba Cascades Waterfalls to stroll along the boardwalks and viewing platforms. Lunch can be purchased at the lovely township stop of Leura where you can walk the tree-lined streets and wander into in the iconic boutique shops. The final stop of the day is a visit to the renowned Sydney Zoo where you can get up close with some of Australia’s most beloved creatures. Your adventure ends with a serene ferry ride back to Sydney under the iconic Harbour Bridge.
*please let our team know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements
Start Time: 07:00 (approx.)
End Time: 18:30 (approx.)
Inclusions: hotel pick up, drop off at Circular Quay harbour off ferry
Excludes: lunch, drinks, gratuities
Please note this tour is subject to minimum numbers being met.
Brisbane – Moreton Island Day Trip - 03/12/2025
+£100 per person
Experience the ultimate Marine Discovery adventure and enjoy a taste of island life on stunning Moreton Island.
Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup before boarding a smooth-sailing catamaran for the 75-minute cruise across beautiful Moreton Bay. Sip on your included tea, coffee, or soft drink as you take in the scenic views en-route to Tangalooma Island Resort.
The highlight of your day is the Marine Discovery Cruise, where expert guides help you spot and learn about some of Australia’s most captivating marine wildlife. Cruise times vary, and when you're not on the water, you’re free to enjoy the island at your own pace. Take advantage of your day pass to Tangalooma Island Resort. Lounge by the pool, stroll along white sandy beaches, or explore the island’s facilities. A $25 Island Lunch Voucher per adult is included.
After a day of exploration and relaxation, you'll board the 4:00 PM ferry for the return journey to Brisbane, arriving back around 5:15 PM.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, return catamaran cruise to Moreton Island, day pass access to resort, full use of resort facilities, 1 standard beverage on boat, Marine Discovery Cruise, light lunch
Excludes: additional food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 08:40 (approx.)
End Time: 17:15 (approx.)
Brisbane – Australia Zoo Day Trip - 03/12/2025
+£115 per person
Visit the iconic Australia Zoo and come face to face with over 1,200 animals including all your Aussie favourites. Enjoy a convenient pickup from your hotel and make your way to the world-famous Australia Zoo aboard an air-conditioned vehicle. Explore this interactive attraction with an included admission ticket, gaze at exotic animals, and witness fascinating live shows.
Visit Australia Zoo, accompanied by your friendly and experienced guide. You will have approximately 6 hours, heaps of time to enjoy the best Zoo in Australia. Explore the world's most interactive zoo at your own pace and watch daily animal shows including saltwater crocodiles and more.
Relax at the end of the day as your tour concludes with drop off back at your hotel.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, day admission to Australia Zoo
Excludes: food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 07:30 (approx.)
End Time: 16:30 (approx.)
Brisbane – Australia Zoo Day Trip - 09/12/2025
+£115 per person
Visit the iconic Australia Zoo and come face to face with over 1,200 animals including all your Aussie favourites. Enjoy a convenient pickup from your hotel and make your way to the world-famous Australia Zoo aboard an air-conditioned vehicle. Explore this interactive attraction with an included admission ticket, gaze at exotic animals, and witness fascinating live shows.
Visit Australia Zoo, accompanied by your friendly and experienced guide. You will have approximately 6 hours, heaps of time to enjoy the best Zoo in Australia. Explore the world's most interactive zoo at your own pace and watch daily animal shows including saltwater crocodiles and more.
Relax at the end of the day as your tour concludes with drop off back at your hotel.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, day admission to Australia Zoo
Excludes: food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 07:30 (approx.)
End Time: 16:30 (approx.)
Brisbane – Moreton Island Day Trip - 10/12/2025
+£100 per person
Experience the ultimate Marine Discovery adventure and enjoy a taste of island life on stunning Moreton Island.
Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup before boarding a smooth-sailing catamaran for the 75-minute cruise across beautiful Moreton Bay. Sip on your included tea, coffee, or soft drink as you take in the scenic views en-route to Tangalooma Island Resort.
The highlight of your day is the Marine Discovery Cruise, where expert guides help you spot and learn about some of Australia’s most captivating marine wildlife. Cruise times vary, and when you're not on the water, you’re free to enjoy the island at your own pace. Take advantage of your day pass to Tangalooma Island Resort. Lounge by the pool, stroll along white sandy beaches, or explore the island’s facilities. A $25 Island Lunch Voucher per adult is included.
After a day of exploration and relaxation, you'll board the 4:00 PM ferry for the return journey to Brisbane, arriving back around 5:15 PM.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, return catamaran cruise to Moreton Island, day pass access to resort, full use of resort facilities, 1 standard beverage on boat, Marine Discovery Cruise, light lunch