So, you’ve decided to do it. You’re going to follow the England national cricket team down under (or welcome the Australians here) for an Ashes series. It’s the pinnacle of Test cricket, a historic rivalry that writes new legends every time it’s played. Whether you’re dreaming of the roar of the Gabba or the hallowed turf of Lord’s, an Ashes tour is a pilgrimage for any England fan. But between securing tickets, navigating foreign cities, and planning your cricket-watching strategy, it can feel daunting.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from the first flicker of an idea to raising a pint in celebration (or consolation!) at the close of play. By the end, you’ll have a practical plan to make your Ashes tour unforgettable.
What You'll Need Before You Start
Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. For tours to Australia, you’ll need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or visa well in advance. Budget: Ashes tours are a premium experience. Start saving early. Major cost buckets include flights, accommodation (which skyrockets in host cities), match tickets, internal travel, food, drink, and, of course, merchandise. Time: A full Ashes series involves five Test matches, usually spread over about seven weeks. You might not do the whole tour, so decide which Tests you want to target. Patience: Ticket ballots for home Tests at grounds like Lord's (the Home of Cricket) are fiercely competitive. For away tours, official travel packages through the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) often provide the most reliable ticket access.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Planning the Ultimate Ashes Tour
1. Choose Your Series and Secure Your Tickets
This is the non-negotiable first step. Are you heading to Australia, or is the series in England?
For Home Series (in England): Register for ticket ballots directly with the major Test match grounds (Lord’s, The Oval, Edgbaston, etc.) as soon as they are announced. Hospitality packages are more expensive but guarantee a seat and often include perks. Keep an eye on official resale platforms closer to the date. For Away Series (in Australia): The most straightforward method is to book through an official tour operator linked to the ECB. This bundles tickets, often for the "England fans" section, with travel and accommodation. Alternatively, you can go it alone: sign up for ticket alerts with Cricket Australia for their general sale, but be ready for a virtual queue.
Pro Tip: For the iconic venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day, tickets sell out in minutes. Have multiple devices ready and be logged into your accounts beforehand.
2. Book Travel and Accommodation Strategically
Once you know your matches, lock in your flights and places to stay. For an away tour, major cities like Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth are the hosts. Internal flights in Australia are necessary and can be costly—book early.
Accommodation: Hotels near the cricket grounds get booked up years in advance for an Ashes series. Look at suburbs with good public transport links to the stadium. For a home series, consider the rich history of England’s home grounds when choosing where to stay. Travel Insurance: This is essential. It should cover trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. Given the investment, don’t skip this.
3. Plan Your Match-Day Experience
A day at the Test is about more than just the cricket. It’s a ritual.
Getting There: Research public transport options. Trains and trams are usually the best bet on big match days. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere, avoid queues, and watch the teams warm up. What to Pack: Sun protection is critical in Australia (hat, SPF50+, sunglasses). In England, pack for all seasons—suncream and a raincoat! A portable radio with headphones lets you listen to Test Match Special commentary. Don’t forget your England shirt. In-Ground Etiquette: Learn the local rules. The Barmy Army will be in full voice, but know when to cheer and when to be respectfully quiet. In Australia, don’t be surprised by the friendly but fierce banter from the locals.
4. Immerse Yourself in the Ashes Culture
This is what separates a trip from a tour.
Follow the Narrative: Understand the current state of the team. Are we in the era of England's aggressive Test cricket approach under Brendon McCullum and England captain Ben Stokes? Will the artistry of Joe Root or the relentless skill of England seamer James Anderson be the defining story? Knowing the battle between England batter Ollie Pope and a world-class Aussie spinner, or the explosive potential of England wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow, adds layers to your viewing. Join the Community: Find where the Barmy Army is based each day. Their dedicated sections are a blast. For a more historical perspective, explore the team culture and history that makes this rivalry so intense. Explore Beyond the Boundary: Visit the museum at Lord’s to see the actual Ashes urn (when in England). In Australia, take stadium tours at the MCG or SCG. Attend fan events often hosted in city centres during the week.
5. Build in Downtime and Backup Plans
A five-day Test match is a marathon, not a sprint. You likely won’t watch every ball of every day, and that’s okay.
Pace Yourself: Plan quieter days or tourist activities between match days. Explore the city, visit a local beach or pub, and give your voice (and liver) a rest. Weather Contingencies: Test cricket has rain delays. Have a plan for a nearby pub, museum, or cinema. A drawn Test, like the famous one at Lord's in 2023 secured by Stokes and England bowler Stuart Broad, can be as dramatic as a win. Embrace the Result: The Ashes are unpredictable. Whether celebrating a series win or weathering a defeat, the shared experience with fellow fans is what you’ll remember. The camaraderie is a victory in itself.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
DO: Start planning at least 18 months in advance for an away tour, 12 months for a home series. Learn the basic rules of Test cricket if you’re a new fan. It enhances the enjoyment immensely. Budget an extra 20% for unexpected costs, spontaneous activities, and celebratory drinks. Pack comfortable shoes. You’ll be on your feet a lot, both in the ground and exploring.
DON'T: Underestimate the sun or weather. Dehydration in Australian heat or soaking in an English shower can ruin a day. Engage in hostile banter. The rivalry is fierce but should be good-natured. Represent England fans well. Forget to convert currency (for away tours) or check your mobile roaming plans. * Try to do it all. Attempting to attend every day of every Test will lead to burnout. Pick your battles.
Your Ashes Tour Checklist Summary
- Decide on your series (Home or Away) and target matches.
- Secure your match tickets via official ballots, ECB packages, or direct sales.
- Book international and internal flights as early as possible.
- Reserve accommodation in host cities, prioritising location and transport links.
- Organise comprehensive travel insurance.
- Plan your match-day logistics: transport, bag pack (sun/rain gear, radio), arrival time.
- Research the current team storylines and key players like Stokes, Root, and Anderson.
- Identify fan hubs and plan cultural activities beyond the cricket ground.
- Schedule downtime and have wet-weather backup plans.
- Finalise finances, inform your bank of travel, and get excited!
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