One of the world's best sports stadiums has been labelled a "bucket list destination" - thanks to its proximity to the beach, vibrant city and unique British history that began when a group of backpackers descended on a "dream trip" in the 90s. Situated in the heart of South Australia, the Adelaide Oval features breathtaking views of the "town-like" city, where the landscape can be viewed by walking through the "beautiful" grounds or daringly climbing on top. Attached to the stadium is five-star accommodation called the Oval Hotel, which features an in-house restaurant and wine bar, offering guests another view of the site. Holidaymakers also have access to The Next Gen Health & Lifestyle Club, which provides another spectacular sight whilst being able to swim to cool off from the 27C heat. Before you even enter the stadium, you'll be left in awe by the stunning backdrop of St. Peter's Cathedral, which is a huge architectural landmark. Tourists can take a peaceful walk along the River Torrens, which is based in the core of the city, and is rated a top spot for people to reconnect with nature; whether exploring with a kayak or bike tour with Earth Adventure. The tour operator also offers a scenic cycle to picturesque beaches including Glenelg and Henley beach. The one-of-a-kind venue hosts an array of events including NFL games, international tennis, and concerts, welcoming the likes of Ed Sheeran and Adele. However, its cricket portfolio attracts tens and thousands of people to the city. It will be thrust into the global spotlight and to the attention of English cricket fans in winter this year when an Ashes test takes place here. and tourists say the atmosphere at the stadium is "fantastic", and cannot be found at any other test site. Unlike many other stadiums, supporters are allowed to roam the site in between tests and can bask in the sun on a bright green lawn, whilst overlooking its Moreton Bay fig trees. Around 40,000 cricket fans, including members of the Barmy Army, are expected to travel to the other side of the world to watch England play later this year. Unlike other test grounds dotted around Australia, this one is sacred to British cricket fans. "It's got a special place in our hearts, but it's a beautiful ground. If you go to all five test match grounds in Australia it is the most scenic," David Peacock, founder of the Barmy Army, told the Mirror. Mirror reporter, Monica Charsley, visited the legendary site ahead of the Ashes to find out what makes it so special. In her guide of the stadium, you'll find the best things to do whilst visiting the Oval, discover the best tour packages and how to book your trip, with the help of the Barmy Army and the South Australian Tourism Commission. Celebrating 30 years of the Barmy Army at The Ashes David was just 27 when his life turned upside down and he unknowingly created what is now a global brand. The adored fan group the Balmy Army was founded by David, Paul Burnham and Gareth Evans during England’s 1994/95 Ashes tour of Australia. They were travelling as part of a small group of backpackers living in hostels when their unwavering support and magnificent chants were picked up by Australian media. Soon they earned their now famous name. David recalled being part of England's famous, unlikely win back then."The Australian media had written us off. But miraculously, England won the test match on day five. So, it was the first time we had seen England win away from home. So, you can imagine how excited the fans were. We ran onto the pitch. We started singing in front of the player's dressing room and then Alex Stewart called me up to his balcony with a couple of others." When asked for his other favourite memories in the stadium, he remarked: "2010, was the first time England had won since 1994/95, we won in Adelaide. "So, the after-party in the Cathedral Hotel which is adjacent to the ground and in the city was just amazing. We've won twice in Adelaide. And then most recently, I was there when England beat India by 10 wickets in the semi-final of the World Cup. It was probably one of the greatest ever England performances that we saw. "England actually have a track record of success in Adelaide, whereas we've never won in Brisbane for years and years. You've probably got a bit more chance of seeing England win in Adelaide." What else makes the Adelaide Oval so special? Bob Elliot, who has covered 282 tours in his ten years of being a volunteer tour guide at the stadium, explained why it is such an amazing site. "The history of the place, the iconic scoreboard, the memories of seeing Sir Donald Bradmond play, and people who have come to see other great test cricketers and AFL footballers as well," he told The Mirror. "You've got the beautiful iconic trees out here at the back as well. The thick trees which are magnificent." Speaking on how the Barmy Army impacted cricket, Bob, who also runs Historical Adelaide Tours, said: "I think they're fantastic. Their culture is better than the Australian culture for a lot of the cricket matches. It's just the way they sing and the way they bring humour to the players without being offensive." Make the most of it with fun family days out The team at Barmy Army explained that the tropical weather and fun-fuelled activities available in Adelaide make it a great place to visit and stay in for couples and families. "You're not just going 24 hours to watch a game of cricket. You're going to experience an amazing country," said David. The founder also recommended a trip to the beach. He added: "My wife went gliding which was easy to get to. The trams are iconic, the beers are great, and also it's just a 10-minute walk from the city centre to the ground. You walk over the Torren River. It's a beautiful walk." Chris Millard, managing director of the Barmy Army, added: "We've got 56,000 members, you'd be surprised with how many junior Barmy Army shirts we sell." He compared the city to a "community-based town" and shared that there is an "abundance" of things to do. "It feels very townlike and you've got some amazing places to eat and drink. And in my view, probably the best wine in Australia comes from that way of the world." What about thrillseekers? Chris recommended that people book the rooftop climb, which Monica also tried out. Guests can even embark on a twilight climb, with each venture allowing you to lean out 50 metres above the stadium. The guided tour is a great way to catch a glimpse of the city landscape, whilst also learning about its history. Describing the climb, Chris said: "I think one of the biggies would be the roof climb because you can do that during the game as well. It’s a pretty unique experience to stand on the roof while the game's going on. It's really enjoyable. It's a great view. It's completely different to anything else you'll have experienced at a cricket game before." Tour packages The Barmy Army is offering a range of Ashes packages including to the Adelaide Test. One of the trips costs from £4,695 per person and includes return economy international flights, 8 nights Adelaide hotel accommodation including breakfast, 5-day Official Test Match tickets within the Barmy Army section for the Adelaide Test, an Official Barmy Army Merchandise Bundle and other extras including Barmy Army membership, group welcome drinks and Barmy Army tour managers looking after you on the ground. To book visit: Barmy Army Ashes Travel Package - Adelaide Only - Tour A1AF How to book flights independently If you'd like to enjoy your flight in comfort and want to start your trip early, return tickets from London Gatwick start at £1,022 for economy and £5,634 for business class in November. Privilege Club members can save up to 20% off with promo code PCMAR25 if booked between March 4 to March 14 (terms & conditions apply). Fares are subject to change and availability. To find out more information visit here.