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 on request. Return Premium Economy upgrade on request (see extras tab). Departure points from Manchester or Birmingham on request (see extras tab).
Departs:
08:35
Arrives:
18:15
Airline:
Qatar Airways
Doha to Brisbane
Departs:
20:25
Arrives:
17:30 (+1)
Airline:
Qatar Airways
Day
2
Arrive Australia
Arriving into Brisbane, 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.
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
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.
Day
4-8
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
9-10
Days at Leisure
Enjoy 2 days at leisure in the capital of Queensland, Brisbane.
Living up to its sunny potential, Brisbane has a strong focus on the outdoors; al fresco dining, picnics by the river, nearby coastal islands and national parks are just a few examples of what you could do with a day here. For a memorable dining experience, visit Howard Smith Wharves under the Story Bridge, where you can enjoy some of the finest drinks and cuisine along the riverside of Brisbane.
If it's beaches that you're after, we recommend making the journey to the Gold Coast, which won't disappoint. We will be offering some optional excursions on these days if you're looking for a group activity.
Day
11
Brisbane to Tasmania
Check out of your hotel this morning and transfer with the group to the airport for your flight to Hobart. Upon arrival into Tasmania, transfer with the group to your hotel for a 4 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
Hobart, Australia’s second oldest city, lies at the base of Mount Wellington, adjacent to the Derwent River that flows into the Tasman Sea. With its vibrant and storied past, the city offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy a few nights between cricket matches.
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.
Brisbane to Hobart
Departs:
TBC
Arrives:
TBC
Airline:
TBC
Day
12-14
Days at Leisure
Enjoy a weekend at leisure in Tasmania.
We recommend a visit to Mona - a world-renowned art collection that doesn't take itself too seriously, and serves some great food. On the east coast, Wineglass Bay is a must-visit photogenic spot, and Port Arthur Historic Site is an amazing place to gain a better appreciation of Australian history in this pivotal destination.
We will have some optional excursions available to you on these days - coming soon!
Day
15
Tasmania to Adelaide
Today we will leave Hobart and head back to the mainland for the 3rd Test. Transfer with the group to the airport to check in for your flight. Upon arrival in Adelaide transfer with the group to the hotel where you can check in for 7 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.
Though modest in size, the city of Adelaide boasts a remarkable natural setting, nestled between some of the country's premier wine regions and stunning beaches. The city offers some of Australia's best restaurants and boutique shops.
Tasmania to Adelaide
This flight from Hobart to Adelaide is likely to be indirect via Melbourne. We will confirm when flights come into range.
Departs:
TBC
Arrives:
TBC
Airline:
TBC
Day
16
Day at Leisure
Enjoy a day at leisure in Adelaide.
A popular way to start the day is at the Adelaide Central Market, one of the largest indoor markets in the Southern Hemisphere, boasting over 70 stalls offering the freshest produce from South Australia, including fruits, vegetables, artisanal breads, cheeses, meats, local seafood, and much more. After exploring the market, take a stroll to North Terrace, home to several of Adelaide's prominent cultural institutions all in close proximity to each other.
On a sunny day, enjoy a stroll through Adelaide's Botanic Garden, which features some of Australia's finest plants and local wildlife.
In the evening, find yourself on Rundle Street, the classy side of the city, where there are plenty of excellent restaurants serving an array of cuisines that suit every budget.
Day
17-21
Australia v England - 3rd NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
With the hotel being a short walk from the ground make your own way across to The Adelaide Oval for days 1-5 of the cricket. The tram in Adelaide is free, so whilst walking to the ground is easy, there is the added option of utilising that. This is yet another fantastic walk to the stadium as you cross the River Torrens - the rowers will be practising on the water as the excitement builds ahead of the 3rd NRMA Insurance Ashes Test.
This is one of our favourite cricket grounds in the world!
NRMA Insurance Ashes Adelaide Test
Play Starts:
TBC
Howzat Cricket Dinner
On Saturday night, 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
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.
Adelaide to Doha
Departs:
22:00
Arrives:
04:05 (+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
Brisbane
Category C - Western Stand Upper Square of Wicket
Adelaide
Category D - Level 5 Eastern Stand (back) mid-wicket to square of 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.
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 C - Western Stand Upper Square of Wicket
Venue:
The Gabba, Brisbane
Capacity:
42,000
3rd NRMA Insurance Ashes Test
Play Starts: TBC
In 2014, extensive renovation projects at Adelaide Oval were finished, turning it into one of the most modern and sophisticated outdoor sports facilities in Australia, all while preserving its scenic beauty and its status as one of cricket's most stunning venues. Visitors travelling with Howzat in 2010 will recall Kevin Pietersen's impressive double century - can one of the current crop emulate this feat?
Tickets:
Category D - Level 5 Eastern Stand (back) mid-wicket to square of wicket
Venue:
Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
Capacity:
53,500
Accommodation
Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane Hotel,
Brisbane
Ideally located in the heart of Brisbane's CBD, the Four Points Brisbane is just a stone's throw away from all the river city has to offer. Popular areas to visit include Queen Street Mall, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Treasury Casino and Queensland Art Gallery.
Features:
Fitness centre
24 hr front desk
We chose this hotel because:
Close to Eagle Street Pier and the Treasury Casino, offering plenty of dining, entertainment, and shopping options
Quick 25 mins to The Gabba via public transport
Hotel Grand Chancellor,
Hobart
Situated on Hobart's waterfront, the Hotel Grand Chancellor has been designed with the modern traveller in mind. Guests can relax and unwind in the heated indoor swimming pool and sauna, before heading down to The Atrium Bar and Tasman Restaurant for some delicious Tasmanian produce. Conveniently located amongst all the action, this hotel is just a short walk away from Hobart's greatest attractions such as Salamanca Place and The Markets, Battery Point and the MONA Ferry.
Features:
Multiple on-site dining options, focusing on local Tasmanian Cuisine
Beautiful waterfront location
We chose this hotel because:
Central location, just a short walk from the CBD
Large, well-equipped bedrooms
The Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre Hotel,
Adelaide
Located in the vibrant north-west quarter of Adelaide's CBD, guests can easily get to the Adelaide Oval, Rundle Mall and Adelaide Casino in just a 10 minute walk. The hotel's modern rooms are well-equipped with everything needed to ensure a comfortable stay.
Features:
Fitness centre
Express start breakfast
We chose this hotel because:
A short and pleasant 10 min walk to the Adelaide Oval
Situated in the vibrant north-west quarter of Adelaide's CBD
Extras
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
Excludes: additional food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 08:40 (approx.)
End Time: 17:15 (approx.)
Hobart – Bruny Island Tour - 12/12/2025
+£99 per person
Experience Tasmania’s ultimate natural beauty spots and wilderness adventure with this day trip to Bruny Island. With world class beaches, national parks, rugged coastline and native wildlife, this is arguably Tasmania’s best day trip.
You can expect an active (easy/moderate level) morning with nature walks, albino wallaby spotting, spectacular scenery lookouts, exploring pristine beaches and lagoon (swimming optional). This tour takes you off the beaten track and into areas that are only accessible by walking tracks that only locals know about. Enjoy an easy 20-minute walk through the peaceful ambience of the of the rainforest, marvel at the clear water and pristine sand of the natural beaches, learn about the convict history of Cape Bruny Lighthouse, and enjoy 360 degree views of the island from the viewing platform at the Neck (please note that there are 279 timber steps to this viewing platform).
After an adventurous morning, it will be time to pull it back a gear as we head for lunch to either the Bruny Hotel, Cafe or winery (lunch not included). There are options to suit all budgets and dietary requirements. After lunch, unwind and relax as we sample some award-winning local produce. Berries, chocolate fudge, cheese, beverages and oysters are all possibilities (time pending and at own cost)!
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, ferry to Bruny Island, any admission fees, National Park pass
Excludes: food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 07:30 (approx.)
End Time: 17:30 (approx.)
Hobart Highlights Tour - 13/12/2025
+£85 per person
Explore the best of Hobart with this Hobart Highlights Tour.
We begin the day with our city loop tour where we will provide guided commentary as we explore the streets of Hobart and visit its major attractions and landmarks. Our first destination is the awe-inspiring kunanyi, also known as Mt. Wellington, where you can indulge in the renowned pristine air of Tasmania. Ascend to the pinnacle at 1272m and be mesmerized by the breathtaking panoramic view of Hobart and its picturesque surroundings.
We will continue our journey passing through the scenic Coal River Valley wine region. This region is renowned for its award-winning cool climate wines. Along the way, we will make a quick stop at the acclaimed Wicked Cheese, where you can enjoy a complimentary cheese sampling and an opportunity to purchase some local produce from the farm gate cafe. Then, we will proceed to the historic township of Richmond, which is rich in convict history and showcases magnificent sandstone and colonial buildings. Here, you will have the opportunity to admire Australia's oldest bridge and Catholic church. Richmond is also home to numerous charming eateries, making it the perfect spot for our lunch break. After lunch, pay a visit to Drink Tasmania Tasting House and indulge in tastings of the region’s finest wines (included – option to upgrade to gin or whisky tasting).
To conclude our adventure-filled day, we'll visit the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Get up close and personal with the friendly kangaroos and other fascinating Tasmanian and Australian wildlife. Don't miss the chance to witness the famous Tasmanian Devil, a true highlight even for locals!
Please note this tour is subject to minimum numbers being met
Start Time: 07:30 (approx.)
End Time: 16:30 (approx.)
Adelaide – Barossa Valley Day Trip - 16/12/2025
+£110 per person
Discover the best of Barossa Valley with this food and wine experience tour, sampling some of the wines and gourmet foods that have made this region an international icon.
Begin your adventure with a guided stroll through the iconic Jacobs Creek Vineyard. Learn about the winemaking process during a tutored tasting of up to five wines, paired with an introduction to wine appreciation. Enjoy a delightful morning tea featuring sweet treats and a tea and coffee buffet.
Next, visit the charming Kies Family Wines for a tasting of six exceptional wines. Savor a delicious main course lunch accompanied by a glass of your favourite wine from the tasting.
Visit the beloved Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop for a brief talk about the property’s rich history and Maggie’s influence on Australian cuisine. Enjoy time to browse the gourmet products and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
After this we head to Barossa Valley Chocolate Factory where you can indulge in a unique wine and chocolate pairing experience—an irresistible combination. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the shop and café for treats to take home.
If time permits there may also be some time to explore Tanunda Main Street before going back to your hotel.
*please note minimum numbers are required to operate this tour.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, morning tea, lunch, wine tastings at 3 vineyards, afternoon tea
Excludes: other drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 08:30 (approx.)
End Time: 17:30 (approx.)
Adelaide- Kangaroo Island Day Trip - 22/12/2025
+£210 per person
Experience the highlights of South Australia’s famous Kangaroo Island.
The tour starts with a convenient pick-up location tbc, where the coach will pick you up to transfer to Cape Jervis for the ferry across to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. Visit the Seal Bay Conservation Park and take a guided walk on the beach to witness the rare and wild Australian sea lions up close. The experienced guides lead visitors right into the heart of the colony. This intimate experience educates guests on the sea lions' habitat, behavior, and the conservation challenges they face. Please note, this tour includes walking down stairs and onto the beach.
After a delicious two-course lunch, spend the afternoon at the Flinders Chase National Park. As you travel through the park, keep an eye out for echidnas, wallabies, reptiles, and koalas. See the rugged coastline from walks around Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Remarkable Rocks provide great photographic opportunities, and the Admirals Arch boardwalk takes you down a rugged cliff face to reveal the spectacular rock archway, a natural nursery, and a haven for playful long-nosed fur seals.
From Park, it’s back on the ferry and back to your hotel in Adelaide.
*please note minimum numbers are required to run this tour.
Inclusions: return transfers, National Park & Wildlife Park admission fees, 2 course lunch
Excludes: additional food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 06:45 (approx.)
End Time: 20:30 (approx.)
Adelaide – Barossa Valley Day Trip - 22/12/2025
+£110 per person
Discover the best of Barossa Valley with this food and wine experience tour, sampling some of the wines and gourmet foods that have made this region an international icon.
Begin your adventure with a guided stroll through the iconic Jacobs Creek Vineyard. Learn about the winemaking process during a tutored tasting of up to five wines, paired with an introduction to wine appreciation. Enjoy a delightful morning tea featuring sweet treats and a tea and coffee buffet.
Next, visit the charming Kies Family Wines for a tasting of six exceptional wines. Savor a delicious main course lunch accompanied by a glass of your favourite wine from the tasting.
Visit the beloved Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop for a brief talk about the property’s rich history and Maggie’s influence on Australian cuisine. Enjoy time to browse the gourmet products and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
After this we head to Barossa Valley Chocolate Factory where you can indulge in a unique wine and chocolate pairing experience—an irresistible combination. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the shop and café for treats to take home.
If time permits there may also be some time to explore Tanunda Main Street before going back to your hotel.
*please note minimum numbers are required to operate this tour.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, morning tea, lunch, wine tastings at 3 vineyards, afternoon tea