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.
As the Ashes moves to Adelaide, cricket fans are in for a treat both on and off the field.
Adelaide, known as the Vineyard City of Australia, and one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World, is known for its award winning wineries within easy reach of the action at the Oval. The Barmy Army was founded in Adelaide 30 years ago and fans who join us here in 2025 are in for a very special experience.
Here is a look at what supporters can expect in Adelaide during the 25/26 Ashes:
Cricket
In 1994, a group of backpackers descended on the Adelaide Oval in front of the iconic scoreboard, and began singing songs to support the England team. The press branded them the ‘Barmy Army’ for their unbounded support and the rest – as they say – is history.
With the spire of St Peter’s Cathedral as a backdrop, there is a certain English feel to the stadium, which was opened in 1873 and still uses the original scoreboard!. It is arguably the most picturesque ground in the world and the town itself lives and breathes cricket. For a unique view of the ground sign up to do the RoofClimb experience offering 360 degree city vistas.
When you’re not traversing the Oval’s roof, 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 Adelaide, you MUST do so alongside the thousands of travelling Barmy Army members!
The Oval is situated right in the heart of the city, framed by the River Torrens and surrounding precinct. Whether you’re travelling by car, bus, train or tram, Adelaide Oval’s close proximity to the city centre makes it easily accessible. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transport when attending events at Adelaide Oval or to take a stroll from the accommodation.
Ben Stokes and his team will already be 2-0 up in the series by the time they arrive in Adelaide, and there aren’t many better locations in world cricket to watch England dominate the Aussies and take control of the Ashes!
Food & Drink
Whether you’re after a quick bite to eat, heading out for a celebratory meal out or fancy bar-hopping with your mates, Adelaide has everything you need. There really is something for everyone, regardless of what your diet or budget allows.
Adelaide – South Australia’s capital city – is home to some world-famous chefs cooking up a storm in restaurants right in the heart of town. Adelaide is also on the doorstep of world-renowned wine regions like the Barossa known for its bold reds and the Adelaide Hills, just 20 minutes drive from the city and known for its cool climate wines and fabulous vineyard restaurants.
Plus, South Australians absolutely love brunch, and are obsessed with coffee. So, if you’re after a coffee shop, you can find many high-quality places across the suburbs and through the city centre.
Our dedicated Tour Manager will be able to provide recommendations to you based upon our 30 years of travel experience and there is lots of inspiration online at www.southaustralia.com.
Things To Do
South Australia – and Adelaide specifically – is full of entertainment. From metropolitan beaches to the world-famous restaurant scene mentioned above, there’s a real energy about this place! We appreciate your main reason for visiting is likely to be the cricket, but there’s still plenty of time for sightseeing between tests.
The Adelaide Central Market is the largest undercover food market in the Southern Hemisphere and is a great place to explore on a walking tour or just on a wander. It’s popular with locals and tourists alike and is right in the heart of town.
Catching a tram down to one of the city beaches for a surf, heading into the Hills for a long lazy winery lunch, heading off on a mountain bike tour in the McLaren Vale (just 40 minutes from the city) or enjoying an e-bike tour in Adelaide itself are all great ways to live like a local.
If you’re wanting to venture out of Adelaide, we recommend booking a two night/three day trip to Kangaroo Island – a wildlife paradise just a 30 minute flight from Adelaide. This is one of the best places in the country to see native Aussie wildlife in the wild and is well worth including in your Ashes itinerary. Or take a flight to Port Lincoln to the Eyre Peninsula where the ocean meets the outback – perfect for seafood lovers and keen anglers. Or stay closer to the city and explore the many wine regions which are in easy reach of Adelaide.
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
Given Adelaide is one of the ‘smaller’ cities to host an Ashes Test match, the quickest and easiest ways to get around the city are on foot and by bus or tram. Walking is ideal for short distances in the central business district, however, it obviously isn’t an option for every visitor. Instead, the free bus and tram services provided by Adelaide Metro – the city’s bus, tram and train network – are convenient options for longer trips between downtown locales.
If you’re heading to an attraction situated outside the city centre, hiring a car or ordering a taxi/Uber are probably your best options. Meanwhile, trains are ideal for commutes to suburban areas in Adelaide.
Join the Barmy Army in Adelaide 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
