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We took a guided tour of the Adelaide Oval and it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable and informative experiences we had whilst staying in Adelaide. With tickets priced at AUD$30 (£15) for adults, the tour offered excellent value considering the access and insight provided. Adelaide Oval can hold approximately 53,500 people and while it is best known for cricket, it is also home to AFL football, major pop concerts and numerous other large scale events throughout the year.

Getting there:

Getting to Adelaide Oval was straightforward as we were coming from the city centre. We hopped on one of the free trams running along North Terrace and got off near the Adelaide Railway Station, from where it was just a short walk to the cricket ground. As we were early, we enjoyed a riverside stroll through the shady parklands before crossing one of the footbridges over the River Torrens to the Oval.

Adelaide Oval Grandstands and Seating Areas

Our tour began by walking through several of the Adelaide Oval grandstands where we were able to fully appreciate just how large and well designed the stadium is. Our guide explained how the Oval has managed to blend heritage listed stands with modern architecture following its redevelopment. Standing in the seating areas gave us a sense of what match day must feel like, whether it’s a packed Ashes Cricket Test, an AFL match or a sold-out concert with a major international artist on stage.

Media Centre and Broadcast Areas

We were then taken up into the media and broadcast areas which offered a fascinating insight into how events at Adelaide Oval are shared with audiences across Australia and around the world. Our informative guide explained where commentators sit, how journalists work during matches and how live broadcasts are managed. It was interesting to see just how much planning and technology goes into covering major sporting events and concerts.

Adelaide Oval Roof Climb

During our visit to the Adelaide Oval we watched a steady stream of brave people taking on the famous Roof Climb which we opted to admire from below rather than participate in ourselves. The guided rooftop walk traces the stadium’s sweeping roofline, rising to around 50 metres above the pitch. On a clear day it offers 360-degree views over Adelaide, from the city skyline to the coast and surrounding hills.

The Historic Adelaide Oval Scoreboard

One of the absolute highlights of our visit was going inside the historic Adelaide Oval scoreboard. Unlike digital scoreboards used elsewhere, this one is still manually operated.

We were shown the internal workings of the scoreboard and learned how each number is changed by hand during matches. Hearing about the volunteers who operate it and seeing the mechanics up close made this part of the tour especially memorable.

As we continued our tour of the Oval, we visited several other heritage areas that showcased the long history of the ground. Our guide shared stories of legendary matches, famous players and moments that helped shape the Adelaide Oval into one of Australia’s most respected sporting venues.

Bradman Collection Museum

The Bradman Collection Museum was another fascinating stop on the tour. Inside, we explored displays dedicated to Sir Donald Bradman including memorabilia, personal items and interactive exhibits. Even for casual cricket fans, the museum’s displays explained why Bradman remains such an important figure in Australian sport. I was unable to illustrate this museum as photography is not permitted.

Members’ and Exclusive Viewing Areas

We were also given access to the members only and premium areas which offer the finest views of the playing area. These exclusive spaces include private lounges and premium seating designed for members and VIP guests.

Practice Nets and Player Preparation Areas

Viewing the Practice Area gave us an insight into how professional cricketers prepare for their matches. Our guide outlined training routines, pitch conditions and how players get ready for different formats of the game. This part of the tour really highlighted the level of preparation required behind the scenes.

Sheffield Shield Room

The Sheffield Shield Room focussed on Australia’s domestic cricket competition and South Australia’s role within it.

Here we learned about past champions, historic matches and how the competition has helped develop elite players over the years.

Adelaide Oval Café and Visitor Facilities

Our tour ended near the Adelaide Oval Koffee Ink café, where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments while looking out over the ground or surrounding area. It was a great place to conclude our tour with cups of coffee whilst reflecting on everything we had seen.

Why an Adelaide Oval tour is worth taking:

The Adelaide Oval Stadium Tour was well worth taking. With behind the scenes access and insights into cricket and other sports, the tour offered an engaging experience for all ages. Whether you’re visiting Adelaide for a few days or a local, joining a tour of this iconic ground is definitely time well spent.

During our visit we were guests of The Adelaide Oval and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.

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