The Onward with England 2026 Rugby League World Cup Tour
Experience the best of England at the Rugby League World Cup in 2026!
Join thousands of passionate English fans heading Down Under for the Rugby League World Cup 2026—an unforgettable journey combining thrilling matches, iconic Aussie destinations, and camaraderie like no other.
Touch down in Perth to watch the second game, then continue all the way to the RLWC Final. Along the way, explore Adelaide, Sydney, Cairns, and the Great Barrier Reef before finishing your journey in Brisbane. Includes premium match tickets, premium accommodation, fan events, and guided experiences across all cities.
Book your Rugby League World Cup tour today and make 2026 your ultimate rugby league getaway.

Need more information or want a chat?
Click here for the FAQ section, or call us on 01235 421720 or e-mail tours@rlexperience.co.uk
Tour Inclusions
- Rugby League Experience World Cup commemorative backpack, and sports cap
- Return economy class flights Manchester/London – Perth, Brisbane – Manchester/London
- Economy class flights Perth – Adelaide, Adelaide – Sydney, Sydney – Cairns, Cairns – Brisbane
- Full guided tour with rugby league legend Paul Sculthorpe MBE as tour leader
- All transfers as per itinerary
- 26 nights 4/5-star accommodation Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, Cairns, and Brisbane including breakfasts
- Premium match tickets England v France double header, England v Papua New Guinea, double header Lebanon v France, Tonga v Samoa, semi-final 1, semi-final 2, Rugby League World Cup Final
- Pre match functions-Perth x 1, Sydney x 2, Brisbane x 1
- Barossa Valley winery tour with gourmet lunch Adelaide
- Day tour of Sydney, private luncheon at Bondi Icebergs
- Fully catered Legends of League Harbour Cruise Sydney
- Barrier Reef cruise
- Kuranda railway and sky rail
- Formal charity night Brisbane
Tour Host Paul Sculthorpe MBE

I am delighted to be once again working with Craig and everyone at the Rugby League Experience for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. The Rugby League Experience is 100% dedicated to our great game and has a long history of delivering outstanding tour packages for supporters. I know from first-hand experience that their attention to detail and focus on quality is outstanding. I look forward to seeing you all in Australia.
Paul Sculthorpe MBE
Itinerary
Perth
Perth is where the adventure begins. The capital of Western Australia greets you with wall-to-wall sunshine, the best beach culture in the country, and — in October 2026 — two of England's biggest World Cup pool matches at HBF Park. It's the city at the edge of the world, and the perfect place to kick off one of the great sporting tours of your life.
Read City Guide
Adelaide
They call Adelaide Australia's festival capital, and they're not wrong — but what strikes most visitors first is how civilised it all feels. Wide boulevards, brilliant wine, an extraordinary food scene, and the Barossa Valley on the doorstep. Adelaide is the tour's cultural recharge between Perth and Sydney — three days to eat and drink your way through one of Australia's most underrated cities.
Read City Guide
Sydney
Sydney is where rugby league was born, where the NRL rules supreme, and where the 2026 World Cup delivers its most action-packed week of the entire tournament. England v PNG in Wollongong, a double header in Parramatta, two semi-finals, the Legends Harbour Cruise, the Bondi Icebergs lunch, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge — all in ten nights. Sydney is not just a stop on the tour. It's the main event.
Read City Guide
Cairns
After ten nights and five matches in Sydney, Cairns is the tour's tropical exhale — four nights in the far north of Queensland at the gateway to two of the world's greatest natural wonders. The Great Barrier Reef is on your doorstep. The Daintree Rainforest is an hour's drive. The Shangri-La is right on the marina. This is the reward for watching England through to the Final.
Read City Guide
Day 1 | October 21, 2026
In Transit
Today we depart from either Manchester or London for our flight to Perth.
Day 2 | October 22, 2026
Perth
Upon arrival we will transfer to our Hotel.
Hotel: Oaks Perth
Day 3 | October 23, 2026
Perth
After a day of Leisure before we head out tonight for our exclusive Rugby League legends eve of match event. The event will be hosted by Paul Sculthorpe MBE, who will be joined by guest Rugby League personalities.
Hotel: Oaks Perth
Day 4 | October 25, 2026
Adelaide
After checking out we transfer to Perth Airport for our flight to Adelaide. Adelaide is well known for its food culture and elegant mix of historic architecture and leafy parklands. Surrounded by world class wine regions such as the Barossa and Mclaren Vale.
On arrival we will be transferred to our Hotel
Hotel: Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Day 5 | October 26, 2026
Adelaide
Today we will enjoy a relaxing day in the world-famous Barossa Valley, visiting and sampling the magnificent wines of the region, whilst learning about the fine art of winemaking. We also enjoy a gourmet lunch together. A lovely relaxing day in a magnificent setting.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Day 6 | October 27, 2026
Adelaide
A day of leisure to explore Adelaide.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Day 7 | October 28, 2026
Sydney
Today we say goodbye to Adelaide and head to the airport to catch our flight to Sydney.
Sydney is Australia’s first, largest and most famous city. It is also home to the game we love-The Greatest GAME of ALL, Rugby League. On arrival we will be met transferred to our hotel.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 8 | October 29, 2026
Sydney
A day of leisure before we head out in the evening for our exclusive eve of the Match event hosted by Paul Sculthorpe MBE. Paul will again be joined by famous faces from the world of Rugby League.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 9 | October 30, 2026
Sydney
Game day. We will depart by coach for the journey south to Win Stadium Wollongong to watch the England v PNG men’s and the England v Samoa women’s matches. Post match we will return to our hotel in Sydney.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 10 | October 31, 2026
Sydney
A day of Leisure in Sydney.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 11 | November 1, 2026
Sydney
Today we go to the World Cup Double header Tonga v Samoa and Lebanon v France at the wonderful CommBank Stadium in Parramatta. Post match we will head back to our hotel.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 12 | November 2, 2026
Sydney
This morning we will take a tour of Sydney’s famous sights such as the Sydney Opera House, The Harbour Bridge and The Rocks.
We then will have private tours of two of Sydney’s most famous sporting landmarks – The Sydney Cricket Ground and Allianz Stadium. We will be taken behind the scenes of the Grand Old Lady Sydney Cricket Ground where many famous cricket and rugby league test matches have taken place. Allianz Stadium home of the Sydney Roosters is a modern stadium with incredible facilities.
After the SCG and Allianz, we will head to Bondi Beach for a private luncheon at the iconic Bondi Iceberg club house. Located at the southern end of Bondi Beach it is famous for its turquoise pools set against the crashing Pacific waves.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 13 | November 3, 2026
Sydney
Whilst we are in Sydney, today is a famous day in Australia, where in Melbourne, there is a horse race that stops the nation-The Melbourne Cup.
The races are also on in Sydney today at Royal Randwick and there is an option for you to attend and join in the festivities on track.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 14 | November 4, 2026
Sydney
After a hectic few days today is a day of leisure. A chance to explore magnificent Sydney for yourself.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 15 | November 5, 2026
Sydney
Today is the day of the Rugby League Experience magical and traditional Legends Sydney Harbour Cruise. Our fully catered cruise will tour around the sights of Sydney Harbour whilst drinking and chatting to true legends of our wonderful game.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 16 | November 6, 2026
Sydney
Today is a day of leisure. This evening, we will once more be entertained at our exclusive eve of match event hosted by Paul Sculthorpe MBE. Scully will once again be joined by special guests.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 17 | November 7, 2026
Sydney
Its Rugby League World Cup Semi Final Game 1 day, and we will be travel to Newcastle and McDonal Jones Stadium the home of the Knights to watch the game. Post match we will return to our hotel in Sydney.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 18 | November 8, 2026
Sydney
Semi Final 2 Game Day. We will be heading for the Allianz stadium to watch the second semi-final. Post match we will return to our hotel in Sydney.
Hotel: Pullman Hyde Park
Day 19 | November 9, 2026
Cairns
Today we say a fond farewell to Sydney and head to the Airport for our flight to Cairns’s, part of Australia’s tropical paradise. Upon arrival we will transfer to our Hotel.
Hotel: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Day 20 | November 10, 2026
Cairns
Today we head out from Cairns to one of the wonders of the world and the Great Barrier Reef. Here will see nature at its finest.
Hotel: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Day 21 | November 11, 2026
Cairns
A day of leisure in Cairns to soak up the sun.
Hotel: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Day 22 | November 12, 2026
Cairns
Today we will take the Scenic Railway to Kuranda, a UNESCO heritage listed rainforest village located in the mountains above Cairns known for its vibrant markets, lush tropical scenery, and Aboriginal culture.
We will return to Cairns via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. This spectacular gondola ride offers birds eye views of the deep valleys, waterfalls, and untouched forest canopy.
Hotel: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Day 23 | November 13, 2026
Brisbane
After checking out we transfer to Cairns Airport for our flight to Queensland’s capital Brisbane. We will then be transferred to our Hotel.
In the evening, we will head out for our Rugby League World Cup 2026 Final Formal Charity night where we will be entertained whilst raising funds for both Rugby League Cares and Australia’s equivalent charity the Family of League.
Hotel: ibis Styles Brisbane
Day 24 | November 14, 2026
Brisbane
A day of leisure to explore the wonderful city of Brisbane. This evening, we will enjoy our final match eve event hosted by Paul Sculthorpe MBE.
Hotel: ibis Styles Brisbane
Day 25 | November 15, 2026
Brisbane
It is not just gameday. It is the Rugby League World Cup Final game day! We will depart our hotel for Suncorp Stadium, where we all hope to be watching England lift that trophy! Post game we will return to the hotel to celebrate!
Hotel: ibis Styles Brisbane
Day 26 | November 16, 2026
Brisbane
The last day of the tour. We will be holding a farewell lunch to celebrate great memories and new friends!
Hotel: ibis Styles Brisbane
Day 27 | November 17, 2026
In Transit
Coach transfers to Brisbane Airport for our return flight to the UK.
Your Tour Hotels
Oaks Perth Hotel
305 Murray St, Perth WA 6000
The Oaks Perth Hotel offers central convenience in the heart of the CBD. Located just a short stroll from major venues like RAC Arena and with easy train access to Optus Stadium, the property features spacious, apartment-style studios that allow you to rest in comfort while staying connected with inclusive Wi-Fi.
The on-site gym, indoor heated pool, and sauna provide essential facilities for maximum relaxation. With the Oak & Vine restaurant offering dining and the city’s best shopping and transport hubs right on the doorstep, you will enjoy a seamless, professional stay on your tour.
Stamford Plaza Adelaide
150 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
Nestled in the heart of Adelaide’s vibrant cultural district, the Stamford Plaza Adelaide offers you a premier 5-star experience at one of the city’s most prestigious addresses on North Terrace. Perfectly positioned for exploration, the hotel sits directly opposite the Adelaide Convention Centre and SkyCity Casino, with the historic Adelaide Oval and the premium shopping of Rundle Mall just a short, scenic stroll away.
Unwind in elegantly appointed rooms featuring stunning views of the city or the rolling Adelaide Hills, then gather for a world-class Argentinian feast at the renowned La Boca Bar and Grill. With its seamless blend of classic hospitality, a rooftop pool for relaxation, and immediate access to the city’s best attractions, the Stamford Plaza serves as the ultimate sophisticated place to stay on your South Australian adventure.
Pullman Sydney Hyde Park
36 College St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Perfectly positioned overlooking the emerald expanse of Hyde Park, the Pullman Sydney Hyde Park offers a sophisticated urban sanctuary in the heart of the CBD. This five-star hotel seamlessly blends modern luxury with functional elegance, featuring guest rooms that boast either vibrant parkland or iconic city views.
Guests can take advantage of the rooftop pool and sun deck, which provide a breathtaking panoramic backdrop of the Sydney skyline, or recharge in the 24-hour fitness centre and sauna. With the culinary delights of Bar Thirty6 and the sun-drenched Windows on the Park restaurant on-site, your stay ensures both convenience and indulgence, all while being just steps away from the high-end retail of Pitt Street Mall and the cultural hub of the Australian Museum.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870
Experience the ultimate gateway to the Great Barrier Reef at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns, where five-star luxury meets the water’s edge. Perfectly positioned at the Marlin Marina, our tour group will enjoy seamless access to reef departures just steps from the lobby, eliminating the need for morning transfers.
Between excursions, guests can unwind in private balconies overlooking Trinity Bay, relax by the tropical pool, or enjoy locally-sourced Australian cuisine at The Backyard restaurant. With its central location near the Esplanade and premium amenities, the Shangri-La serves as the ideal upscale base for exploring the best of Tropical North Queensland.
Ibis Styles Brisbane
40 Elizabeth St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Located in the heart of the CBD, ibis Styles Brisbane Elizabeth Street offers a vibrant and comfortable home base with unbeatable access to the city’s best attractions. Your will enjoy modern, light-filled rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning views of the Brisbane River and South Bank.
Just a short stroll from the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct and the cultural hub of the Treasury Casino, the hotel’s central position makes exploring the city effortless. Between excursions, relax at The Social Restaurant & Bar, which serves as a perfect gathering spot for breakfast or evening drinks, all while benefiting from 24-hour service and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout your stay.
Testimonials
I went with Craig and The Rugby League Experience to the Rugby League World Cup and what an experience! Everything was taken care of so all we had to do was enjoy the footy, travels and order the pints. Will be first call for my next rugby league trip.u003c/emu003e
Bert L. WiganI have known Craig and The Rugby League Experience for many years. I have been on many of their tours and events watching Rugby League all over the world. Craig is a brilliant host whose trips always deliver first class unique experiences, tickets and transportation.
Paul Sculthorpe MBECraig and The Rugby League Experience made sure every detail was taken care of, so our whole group could just enjoy our end of season trip to the Grand Final. The Harbour Cruise and Race days were epic! Thanks again mate, you’re a legend looking after us each year!
Howie B. RobinaLocations Gallery


















Tour Map
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Rugby League World Cup?
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The Rugby League World Cup 2026 (RLWC2026) is the upcoming edition of the sport’s premier international tournament, set to take place in Australia and Papua New Guinea during October and November 2026. It’s a celebration of rugby league’s global talent, featuring three simultaneous competitions:
- Men’s World Cup: 10 national teams (down from 16 in 2022)
- Women’s World Cup: 8 national teams
- Wheelchair World Cup: 8 national teams
- When and where is the Rugby League World Cup 2026 being held?
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The tournament will kick off Thursday 15th October 2026 and the final is on Sunday 15th November 2026. Matches hosted across various cities in Australia, New Zealand and PNG, featuring iconic stadiums and incredible fan atmospheres.
- Allianz Stadium, Sydney, NSW
- CommBank Stadium, Sydney, NSW
- McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, NSW
- WIN Stadium, Wollongong, NSW
- Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast, Qld
- Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville, Qld
- Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Qld
- HBF Park, Perth, WA
- One NZ Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
- Who is England playing at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup?
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England has 3 pool matches at the 2026 RLWC.
- England v Tonga – Saturday 17th October 2026, HBF Park, Perth, Australia
- England v France – Saturday 24th October 2026, HBF Park, Perth, Australia
- England v Papau New Guinea – Friday 30th October 2026, WIN Stadium, Wollongong, Australia
- What teams will be playing at the Rugby League World Cup in 2026
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The teams confirmed:
- Australia
- England
- New Zealand
- Samoa
- Tonga
- Fiji
- Lebanon
- Papua New Guinea
- Can I choose which matches I attend?
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Absolutely! We offer multiple tiered packages ranging from group-stage matches to the final showdown. You can customize your itinerary based on preferred teams or locations.
- What's included in the tour packages?
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Each tour is crafted for convenience and fan immersion. You’ll get:
- Match tickets for selected games (from group stage to the final)
- Airport transfers and game-day travel
- Exclusive fan gear and welcome gift pack
- Optional excursions to places like Great Barrier Reef, Blue Mountains, or Hunter Valley
- I'm travelling solo – will I fit in?
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You’re not alone! Many fans make the journey solo. We offer:
- Room-share options
- Group dinners and cultural experiences to help you connect
- What kind of accommodation is included?
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Expect clean, comfortable, and centrally located hotels. Packages feature:
- 4 to 5-star hotel options
- Daily breakfast
- Do I need a visa to enter Australia or Papau New Guinea
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Yes, UK citizens require a visa to visit Australia and Papau New Guinea. It’s best to apply early to avoid any last-minute issues.
Australia: Most travelers apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for short-term stays.
Papau New Guinea:You can apply for a Papua New Guinea eVisa online before travelling, as visas on arrival are no longer available for British citizens.
We can guide you through the application process.
- What's the weather like in Australia in October/November?
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Australia’s weather in October and November is generally warm, sunny, and ideal for travel – especially for Rugby League World Cup fans chasing matches across the country. As the country is so large, the weather will vary across regions. Here is a general breakdown:
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Southern Cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide)
- October: Mild spring weather with highs around 20–24°C and cool nights around 10–15°C
- November: Warmer days, highs reaching 24–27°C, with occasional showers
- Great for sightseeing, beach walks, and outdoor events like Sculpture by the Sea in Sydney
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Queensland & Northern NSW (Brisbane, Gold Coast)
- October–November: Warm and humid, highs around 26–28°C
- Occasional rain showers, but plenty of sunshine—perfect for beach days and fan meetups
- Water temperatures are swimmable, around 22–24°C
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Outback & Central Australia (Alice Springs, Uluru)
- October: Hot days up to 33°C, cooler nights around 15°C
- November: Even hotter, with daytime highs often exceeding 35°C
- Dry and sunny—bring sunscreen and stay hydrated
Tropical North (Darwin, Cairns)
- October: Start of the wet season, hot and humid with highs around 33–35°C
- November: Rain increases, with thunderstorms and sticky conditions
- Not ideal for long outdoor excursions, but lush landscapes and waterfalls are stunning
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Why Choose Us?
We are THE Rugby League World Cup Travel Experts!
We are an official NRL licensed travel agent and have been selling rugby league packages and tours for over 25 years now. This will be the 7th time we have toured the Rugby League World Cup!
We specialise in providing affordable rugby league tours and travel to rugby league fans, teams, schools, sponsors, players, and their families. We are about YOU, the fans of the GREATEST GAME OF ALL – RUGBY LEAGUE!
Why we are the best at what we do
- Exclusive Experiences: Premium access to events and unforgettable moments.
- Seamless Logistics: Stress-free travel planning tailored to your needs.
- Passion for Excellence: A team dedicated to making every rugby league moment extraordinary.
- Unmatched Expertise: Over 25 years of delivering tailored rugby league travel experiences.
- Comprehensive Travel Solutions: End-to-end travel and ticket packages for fans and teams.
- Unforgettable Memories: Exclusive access to iconic events and experiences that go beyond expectations.