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
Upon arrival into Brisbane, after clearing customs and immigration, your Tour Manager will meet you in the airport to transfer 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
Day at Leisure
Enjoy a day 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
10
Brisbane 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.
Brisbane to Sydney
Departs:
TBC
Arrives:
TBC
Airline:
TBC
Day
11-14
Days at Leisure
Enjoy 4 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 Adelaide
Check out of your hotel this morning, ready to travel with your group down to Adelaide for the 3rd Test series. Check in to your hotel 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.
Sydney to Adelaide
Departs:
TBC
Arrives:
TBC
Airline:
TBC
Day
16
Days 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.
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 B - Southern Stand Upper Mid-Wicket
Adelaide
Category B - Level 1 Eastern Stand (middle) Square of the 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 B - Southern Stand Upper Mid-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 B - Level 1 Eastern Stand (middle) Square of the Wicket
Venue:
Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
Capacity:
53,500
Accommodation
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 +£160pp based on dual occupancy and +£300pp based on single occupancy
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
Hilton Adelaide Hotel,
Adelaide
Overlooking Victoria Square, the upscale Hilton places you in the heart of Adelaide's entertainment and shopping district. Adelaide's central market is just next door, and guests at the hotel enjoy making the most of Chinatown, which is round the corner. The rooms are stylish and modern, and amenities include a heated outdoor swimming pool with city skyline views.
Features:
Coal Cellar + Grill Restaurant
The Collins Bar
We chose this hotel because:
Centrally located, overlooking Victoria Square
Short 15 minute metro journey to the Adelaide Oval
Extras
Sydney - Sunset Harbour Dinner Cruise - 13/12/2025
+£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.
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.)
Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb - Summit Day - 12/12/2025
+£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.
Blue Mountains Adventure Day Trip - 14/12/2025
+£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.
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
Excludes: other drinks, gratuities
Start Time: 08:30 (approx.)
End Time: 17:30 (approx.)
2nd and 3rd NRMA Insurance Ashes Tests – Square Leg – Blue
Book now from
£6,995
per person based on 2 sharing; secure your place with a 50% deposit; single supplement +£1,995pp