NRMA Insurance Ashes 2025/26: Brisbane Destination Guide

The 2023 Ashes Series will forever be etched in cricketing history as one of the most thrilling Test series ever, with almost every game keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Now, over a year later, the cricketing world has caught its breath, and we are already looking forward to an exciting showdown in Australia next year.

England will head ‘Down Under’ aiming to regain the coveted Ashes urn, however, the trip is about more than just cricket. It’s a journey filled with unforgettable experiences. Joining the Barmy Army will ensure your Ashes experience is memorable, packing the itinerary with sightseeing opportunities to immerse you in the beauty and culture of Australia.

After the first Test in Perth, the Ashes heads to Brisbane – a city that perfectly blends modernity with nature, offering visitors a unique mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and, of course, excellent cricket. You’re at an Ashes Test in one of the most famous stadiums in the world and Jerusalem is being blasted out. What more could you want?

Here is a look at what supporters can expect in Brisbane during the 25/26 Ashes:

Cricket

The spectacular Gabba hosted its first Ashes Test match in 1936, and since then, has become an integral venue in the famous series. The cauldron of 36,000 fans is a test of nerve for every player – and England have certainly had their struggles at the ‘Gabbatoir’.

Despite this, there is simply no better feeling than being in the stands with the Barmy Army. The support is unrivalled, and the atmosphere unbeatable. Trust us when we say, if you are wanting to get behind Stokes and the lads in Brisbane, you MUST do so alongside the thousands of travelling Barmy Army members!

The stadium is located just south of the Brisbane River, and you can usually travel for FREE on a matchday on any Queensland Rail City Network train. Alternatively, it’s a beautiful walk over the bridge through the botanic gardens.

Situated in the Brisbane suburb of Woolloongabba, the ground offers superb facilities for the players and visiting spectators. A favourite of the late, great Shane Warne, the Gabba is one of the most popular sporting stadiums in the world. Over the years, it has hosted athletics, Australian rules football, baseball, concerts, cricket and loads more!

Currently, it serves as the home ground for the Queensland Bulls in domestic cricket, the Brisbane Heat of the Big Bash League and Women’s Big Bash League, and the Brisbane Lions of the Australian Football League.

By now, you’ve realised that England will be cruising towards an Ashes white-wash and those after-play drinks at the official Barmy Army HQ will taste that little bit sweeter!

Food & Drink

Brisbane is home to a spectacular dining scene – with award-winning chefs and cocktail mixologists who will ensure you’re always eating the best food and sipping on the nicest beverages the city has to offer!

One of the most popular spots with locals and tourists alike is Howard Smith Wharves, located just a 10-minute walk from the city and nestled under the iconic Story Bridge! It is widely known as one of the best and most popular dining and lifestyle precincts in the city. Meanwhile, the year-round outdoor climate and incredible fresh produce mean you should expect to eat alfresco style during your time in Brisbane!

We also recommend checking out happy hour on one of Brisbane’s iconic rooftop bars. Or, if you’re after something even more sophisticated, relax in one of many wine bars located around the city.

Plus, our dedicated Tour Manager will be able to provide recommendations to you based upon our 30 years of travel experience

Things To Do

With access to nearby icons like the Gold Coast and Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane is always one of the most eagerly anticipated stops on the Ashes tour. It is also important not to underestimate Brisbane and the abundance of things to do in the city! See abundant wildlife, abseil cliffs, hike to hidden waterfalls and everything in between.

Brisbane is proud of its aboriginal culture, and visitors can learn about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures of Queensland through dance festivals, didgeridoo lessons and more. Elsewhere, the Story Bridge – one of Brisbane’s most famous landmarks – is a MUST SEE! Plus, you can climb to the very top and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

You can also hire a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle down the Brisbane River. Or, get up close with cool koalas at Brisbane’s Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. They are, after all, some of Australia’s coolest creatures!

By travelling with Barmy Army Travel, you benefit from our experienced, dedicated Tour Manager supporting you with your excursion experiences! Our wide array of contacts in and around the area mean we are well-placed to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Australia.

Travel

One of the best things about Brisbane is how easy it is to get around the city. The public transport is superb, with the TransLink go card allowing you to travel seamlessly on all TransLink bus, ferry and rail services across south-east Queensland. To put it simply, it’s the perfect travel companion!

Don’t be surprised to see countless people cycling on the waterfront, either. With dedicated riverside trails, it is a great way to soak up those subtropical vibes of the city. The Kurilpa, Victoria and Goodwill Bridges also provide pedestrian access between the CBD and South Bank’s museums, galleries and theatres.

Join the Barmy Army in Australia for the 2025/26 NRMA Insurance Ashes Series

The Barmy Army understands tens of thousands of England fans place the Ashes tour at the top of their bucket list but never actually make it out to Oz to live their cricketing dreams. They often find themselves setting the 11.45pm alarm, and after a few hours kip, stumbling down the stairs in the dark, cold midwinter to stick the kettle supporting from afar with the worst “I wish I was there” feeling in the world.

Purchasing a Barmy Army Travel package is the only way to guarantee you are sat with the Barmy Army during the NRMA Insurance Ashes Series.

Barmy Army, a Cricket Australia Travel Office Licensed Travel Operator for the 2025/26 NRMA Insurance Ashes Series. CATO Licence Number: CATO2526/020