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Book now from
£9,795
per person based on 2 sharing
secure your place with a 50% deposit
single supplement +£2,345
Whatever you need, one of our friendly and experienced team can help. Enquire online or just give us a call on:
0800 840 1110*
Howzat Travel, a Cricket Australia Travel Office Licensed Travel Operator for the 2025/2026 NRMA Insurance Ashes Series. All our tours include guaranteed 100% official match tickets. Category A tickets to the 4th and 5th NRMA Insurance Ashes Tests in Melbourne and Sydney are included here. CATO Licence Number CATO2526/050.
Find out more about your tickets
Follow the 2025/2026 NRMA Insurance Ashes Series around Australia with 17 Nights 5★ Accommodation on a B&B basis. This tour includes stays in Melbourne and Sydney for the 4th and 5th NRMA Insurance Ashes Tests.
Find out more about your hotels
Return international flights are included in your package. Premium Economy upgrades are available upon request, Business Class upgrades available for on request. Departure points from Manchester or Birmingham on request (see extras tab). Domestic flights in Australia are also included (where listed in the itinerary).
See more information about your flights
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.
Airport transfers by coach are included as well as any overland touring whilst in Australia. The stadiums are accessible from our chosen hotels either on foot or via public transport - the public transport infrastructure is such that connections to and from the stadiums are easy and are free on matchdays with a match ticket (excluding Melbourne).
See more about your transfers
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.
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.
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.
We are both ABTA and ATOL protected, ensuring you can book and travel with complete confidence and peace of mind.
As a Howzat traveller, you have the perfect chance to explore Melbourne & Victoria with our partner, Visit Victoria.
In Melbourne, sport is a way of life - home to world-class events, vibrant culture, and Australia’s best coffee. Beyond the city, Victoria offers epic coastal drives, award-winning wineries, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
🐧 See penguins waddle at Phillip Island
🌊 Drive the iconic Great Ocean Road to the 12 Apostles
🍷 Sip your way through Yarra Valley’s wineries
Wherever you go, you’re never far from great food, great company, and breathtaking views. Make your Ashes trip unforgettable!
Explore Victoria
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.
Sunday 21st December - Premium Economy Upgrade
Premium Economy Upgrade
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).
Monday 22nd December - Economy
Arriving into Melbourne, 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 8 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.
Enjoy a day at leisure in Melbourne on Christmas Eve. The perfect blend of rich cultural history and new-age trends, Melbourne is a place with something for everyone. Much of central Melbourne's gems are hidden off of the tram-graced thoroughfares in small lanes and arcades so make sure to visit Centre Place, a densely packed laneway of tiny cafe's, bars and Art Nouveau Street Lamps.
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!
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.
Join your fellow Howzat clients for Christmas Day. All of our escorted tour travellers come together for a festive yet informal celebration in a prime location. Return transfers will be included. Indulge in a delicious three-course lunch with open bar (beer, wine and soft drinks) and live entertainment.
Join Howzat staff and fellow supporters at this exclusive event ahead of tomorrow's NRMA Insurance Ashes Boxing Day Test against Australia!
Make your own way from the hotel to the MCG, affectionately known as 'The G,' for the NRMA Insurance Ashes Boxing Day Test. Walking up to this iconic ground, knowing you’re about to witness one of the greatest spectacles in sports on one of the most revered days in the cricket calendar, is a truly special experience. There’s no better place to be on Boxing Day!
In Melbourne, trams are free within the CBD, with good public transport links to areas outside of this.
Check out of the hotel and transfer to Melbourne airport for your flight to Sydney. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a nine night stay with breakfast.
Where better to enjoy New Year's Eve than in Sydney? You are free to make your own arrangements and see in the New Year however you wish. We will be offering a couple of options at an additional cost - coming soon.
We will be offering a couple of options for New Year's Eve - details coming soon!
Enjoy 3 full days at leisure in the stunning city of Sydney.
Sydney, renowned for its legendary Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and breathtaking coastlines, undoubtedly ranks high on the wish list of every adventurer. With three full days to explore, there are countless experiences to savor within the city, or for those eager to venture onto the water, a ferry ride to Manly presents spectacular views. Bondi Beach can be easily reached by train or bus, and the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk justifies the effort. Additionally, a train journey to the Blue Mountains reveals some magnificent landscapes.
The NRMA Insurance Ashes Sydney Test! It's easy to access the SCG from the city by using the new city tramway, walking, or by bus.
The Sydney Cricket Ground is one of Australia's oldest and most prestigious sporting stadiums.
On Wednesday 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!
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.
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Economy
Economy
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.
| Venue | Category & Location |
|---|---|
| Melbourne | Category A - Level 1 South - Mid-Wicket |
| Sydney | Category A - Southern Stand Upper - Behind Bowlers Arm |
| 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. | |
Play Starts: TBC
Few experiences in cricket compare to being at the MCG on Boxing Day. A sell-out crowd is guaranteed to be there supporting the two teams and the atmosphere has to be seen to be believed. Fondly referred to by locals as 'The G,' the Melbourne Cricket Ground stands as one of the most prestigious sporting venues in the world. One of our fondest Ashes memories is from Boxing Day in 2010, when Tremlett and Anderson dominated the Aussie lineup.
Play Starts: TBC
The Sydney Cricket Ground stands as one of Australia's oldest and most esteemed sports venues. Located close to Sydney Harbour, this iconic stadium has witnessed numerous pivotal moments in the nation's cricketing history, encompassing both remarkable victories and agonising defeats.
Grand Hyatt Melbourne offers a sophisticated stay in the heart of Melbourne's Collins Street, with easy access to upscale shopping, theatres, and major city landmarks. The hotel boasts luxurious facilities, including a serene indoor pool, a fully equipped fitness centre, and a spa. Guests can savour fine dining at Collins Kitchen or unwind at the popular RU-CO Bar.
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.
Embark on a scenic and indulgent journey through Victoria’s iconic Yarra Valley, renowned for its cool-climate wines, rolling vineyards, and gourmet experiences. This carefully curated wine tour includes exclusive tastings at three of the region’s most celebrated wineries: St Huberts Estate, Soumah, and Yering Station.
Your day begins at the elegantly restored St Huberts Estate, one of the original wineries in the Yarra Valley, first established in 1862. Here, old-world heritage meets contemporary architecture and winemaking innovation. Explore their range of structured and expressive wines—particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir—while browsing the beautifully designed cellar door and gallery spaces. Here you will be provided a wood-fired pizza lunch with antipasti grazing boards.
Next, visit Soumah, nestled in the Warramate foothills. Known for its northern Italian-inspired wines and serene countryside setting, Soumah offers a refined tasting experience featuring premium drops such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Viognier. Enjoy a relaxed seated tasting while soaking in panoramic vineyard views, with optional wood-fired lunch pairings in their Tuscan-style trattoria.
Your final stop is the historic and grand Yering Station, the Yarra Valley’s first vineyard, established in 1838. The estate blends tradition with modern elegance, offering a premium tasting experience in its stunning bluestone cellar door. Sample iconic Yarra Valley varietals such as Chardonnay and Shiraz, browse the on-site art gallery, or enjoy a walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens. It's the perfect way to conclude your day of wine, history, and hospitality.
At the end of your Yarra Valley wine and food tour, transfer back to your hotel. Tour itinerary subject to change.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, wine tastings, lunch, guide
Excludes: other drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 09:30 (approx.)
End Time: 17:30 (approx.)
Join us for a guided tour of the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) — one of the most historic sporting venues in the world. This exclusive experience will take you behind the scenes of the stadium with unique access to the famous MCC Long Room, player changing/viewing rooms, to name a few.
But that's not all — your ticket also includes entry to the Australian Sports Museum, where you’ll discover an interactive celebration of Australia's sporting legends and moments.
Don’t miss this chance to walk where legends have walked and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of both cricket and Australian sport!
Inclusions: 75-minute tour, entry to the Australian Sports Museum
Excludes: hotel transfers, gratuities
Start Time: TBC
Come and see for yourself why this iconic coastal drive is world renowned.
After being picked up from your Melbourne CBD accommodation, you will then explore the world famous Great Ocean Road on this full day tour.
Visit all the iconic favourites, starting with Torquay Surf Beach, the Pole House and Great Ocean Road sign and Cape Patton, before stopping for lunch (not included) and free time at the coastal town of Apollo Bay. After lunch, take a guided forest walk to see some of the tallest trees in the world and see first hand koalas and birds in their natural habitat. From here we continue on to the Gibson Steps to see the world renowned 12 Apostles for a fantastic photo opportunity. The final touring stop is Loch Ard Gorge, Razorback and Island Archway for more incredible rock formations. Return to the hotel via Colac where you can purchase dinner (not included) from one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Please be aware this tour involves a lot of driving time in order to experience as much of the Great Ocean Road as possible.
Inclusions: hotel pick-up, air-conditioned van, experienced guide/driver, morning tea, all entry fees
Excludes: lunch, dinner, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 07:00 (approx.)
End Time: 20:00 (approx.)
Exhilarate your senses with a full-day visit to the award-winning coastal oasis, Peninsula Hot Springs, located just 90 minutes from Melbourne. Unwind and experience geothermal bathing in a stunning natural setting for some much-needed relaxation, connection, and rejuvenation.
Peninsula Hot Springs offers over 50 global bathing experiences within its Bath House—an ideal way to refresh your mind, body, and soul. Victoria’s first natural hot springs and spa, it’s easily accessible from Melbourne yet off the beaten track, making it the perfect escape. In partnership with Peninsula Hot Springs, we’ve launched an exclusive shuttle service to remove any added stress, allowing you to sit back and fully enjoy your day trip getaway.
With skip-the-queue, exclusive entry, you’ll have plenty of time to indulge yourself at the world-class Peninsula Hot Springs. Relax in the tranquil setting, reconnect with nature, and rejuvenate in the mineral-rich waters. The springs strive to create experiences that allow visitors to deeply unwind and connect with themselves.
As you soak in the naturally healing thermal waters, let your worries melt away. The experience is designed for all ages, with wellness options suitable for both young and old. Cafes and kiosks offering healthy snacks are available for purchase to keep you refreshed. After three hours of blissful relaxation, we continue our journey. After your rejuvenating time at Peninsula Hot Springs, we’ll head toward Arthurs Seat, a perfect stop to further elevate your experience. The drive from the springs takes you through the picturesque hinterland, passing vineyards and scenic countryside, before we ascend to the top of Arthurs Seat. This route ensures a safer, smoother journey, as we descend the hill with the best vantage point on the Peninsula. From here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Peninsula, and on clear days, you may even spot the Melbourne city skyline across the bay.
Next, we’ll visit the iconic colourful beach boxes along the coastline, a fantastic photo opportunity to capture the vibrant essence of the area before making our way back to Melbourne. After a day filled with relaxation, nature, and stunning views, we’ll return to the city, arriving around 3:00 pm, feeling refreshed and recharged.
*please let our team know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements
Inclusions: return transfer from central Melbourne, skip the queue with priority entrance, Bath House entry, 3 hours of bathing time from over 70 spa experiences
Excludes: food, drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 08:20 (approx.)
End Time: 15:00 (approx.)
Join us for a full day of fine wine and gourmet food in the stunning Yarra Valley. The Yarra Valley is famous for having some of the best vineyards in the world.
The morning starts with pick up from your hotel and an introduction to your friendly guide who will be the master of proceedings for today. Our first stop is the De Bortoli Vineyard at Dixons Creek for a pairing of selected wines and cheeses at the Valley’s largest producer. Our next stop is Yering Station, site of Victoria’s first vineyard in 1838. Here we’ll enjoy a wine tasting of their estate wines in the original winery featuring local artwork. After the tasting it’s time for a two course lunch in their stunning restaurant. With its world class views, you’ll have an a la carte selection from which to select your meal and glass of wine. After lunch it’s on to Payten & Jones Winery and Medhurst Vineyard for further tastings. This region is famed for its chardonnay and pinot noir varieties so be sure to try these local favourites. At the end of your Yarra Valley wine and food tour, transfer back to your hotel.
Inclusions: return hotel transfers, wine tastings, two course a la carte lunch, bottled water, guide
Excludes: other drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 08:30 (approx.)
End Time: 18:00 (approx.)
Welcome in the New Year on an unforgettable NYE cruise aboard the iconic Sydney cruise.
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 city’s iconic landmarks. Enjoy a 4-course dinner* at water level, bottomless Chandon, live music and the spectacle of the iconic Sydney NYE fireworks display.
Please note the cruise departs at 19:30pm from King Street Wharf No.1 Darling Harbour. It is recommended to check in at least 20 minutes prior to departure.
Dress code: Smart & Stylish, collared shirts for men
Inclusions: 4 course dinner, live music, cruising of Sydney Harbour, view of the Fireworks
Excludes: Transport from hotel, premium alcoholic beverages, outside decks or other levels
Important information: The cruise requires tables to be booked as minimum of 2 people however, we are exclusively inviting single travellers the opportunity to book without a supplement! Please note this is subject to meeting an even number of travellers on your selected deck and therefore we will pair you on a first come first serve basis. Please let us know if there is another traveller you wish to be specifically seated with at time of booking if not booking together.
A pair of window seats can be guaranteed at £59pp extra (table of min 2 only booked together) – please contact us to add this on.
*Please let our team know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements
Start Time: 19:30
End Time: 01:00
Welcome in the New Year on an unforgettable NYE cruise aboard the iconic Sydney cruise.
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 city’s iconic landmarks. Enjoy 5-course dinner*, dining on the second highest level, selection of premium wines and craft beers including bottomless Chandon, live music and the spectacle of the iconic Sydney NYE fireworks display. You also have access to most of the outside decks.
A pair of window seats can be guaranteed at £59pp extra (min booking of 2 together)
Please note the cruise departs at 19:30pm 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 & Stylish, collared shirts for men
Inclusions: 5 course dinner, live music, cruising of Sydney Harbour
Excludes: Transport from hotel. Star Deck Access
Important information: The cruise requires tables to be booked as minimum of 2 people however, we are exclusively inviting single travellers the opportunity to book without a supplement! Please note this is subject to meeting an even number of travellers on your selected deck and therefore we will pair you on a first come first serve basis. Please let us know if there is another traveller you wish to be specifically seated with at time of booking if not booking together.
A pair of window seats can be guaranteed at £59pp extra (table of min 2 only booked together) – please contact us to add this on.
Start Time: 19:30
End Time: 01:00
Welcome in the New Year on an unforgettable NYE cruise aboard the iconic Sydney cruise.
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 city’s iconic landmarks. Enjoy 6-course* degustation menu paired with Penfold’s bottomless premium wines, dining on the exclusive highest level. With access to all premium spirits, wines and beers including bottomless Chandon, enjoy live music and the spectacle of the iconic Sydney NYE fireworks display. You also have access to outside decks including the exclusive Sky Deck.
Please note the cruise departs at 19:30pm 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 & Stylish, collared shirts for men
Inclusions: 6 course dinner, live music, premium drinks package, cruising of Sydney Harbour, all outside decks
Excludes: Transport from hotel.
Important information: The cruise requires tables to be booked as minimum of 2 people however, we are exclusively inviting single travellers the opportunity to book without a supplement! Please note this is subject to meeting an even number of travellers on this selected deck and therefore we will pair you on a first come first serve basis – if there is an uneven number we will contact you. Please let us know if there is another traveller you wish to be specifically seated with at time of booking if not booking together.
A pair of window seats can be guaranteed at £59pp extra (table of min 2 only booked together) – please contact us to add this on.
Start Time: 19:30
End Time: 01:00
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Book now from
£9,795
per person based on 2 sharing; secure your place with a 50% deposit; single supplement +£2,345pp
