50 years since

the 1974 lions tour

first test match

THE HISTORY

They are not just an iconic rugby team, they are one of the greatest teams in world sport, ever. And today marks a very special anniversary for The British & Irish Lions.

Fifty years ago today, the legendary unbeaten 1974 team started their tour of South Africa.

They remain, half a century later, revered in Lions history and folklore. In 22 matches, they won 21 and drew one – the last Test match of the series – to become known as the ‘Invincibles’.

A feat that has yet to be matched, this Lions vintage heralded a new dawn for the Lions and laid the foundations for what they are today. Led by the brilliant Willie John McBride, this epic achievement is still regarded as the best tour in rugby history.

It’s what makes the Lions unique, special and unmatched. We are celebrating this incredible achievement and looking forward to watching the next chapter unfold in Australia next year.

This is why so many fans make the pilgrimage – in honour of the crest, the red jersey and their place in history. Your place awaits.

The worlds greatest tour

Lions tour to Australia 2025

We cannot wait for you to join us in making this the biggest and most succesful British & Irish Lions Tour yet.

Test locations

Melbourne: Take the City Circle Tram
Take the City Circle Tram in heritage class trams around the City, a free and convenient way to get around central Melbourne. Tourists, shoppers, office workers and families can use the City Circle Tram to travel to major attractions, shops and city events. An audio commentary provides details of city landmarks and major attractions such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre.
Brisbane: Howard Smith Wharves
Floating riverside bars, Greek, Italian and Japanese fine dining spots dotted along the boardwalk, and Brisbane’s first CBD craft brewery all reside here.
Sydney: Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge
Feel on top of the world when you ascend to the highest point of the Sydney Harbour Bridge with BridgeClimb. The pinnacle of this famous arch offers sweeping city and harbour views.
Explore the great Barrier reef
Take a snorkeling or diving tour to explore the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Discover the vibrant coral reefs and a myriad of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, rays, and possibly even dolphins and sharks.
Adelaide: Enjoy Adelaide Hills
Enjoy lunches move in firelit wine cellars as kangaroos hop around outside enjoying the cooler temperatures. As well as wineries, the region is famous for its craft beer producers and gin distillers and there are some great opportunities to enjoy beer tastings and gin blending.

Day Trip to Adelaide

Wednesday 30 July - Departs 9:30 AM / Returns 17:00 PM

The Barossa is in South Australia, about 70km north-east of Adelaide, the state’s capital city.   Your trip will include a visit of the city centre, The State Library of South Australia and lunch at a local wine bar and kitchen. 

The State Library is the information heart of South Australia, located in the North Terrace Cultural Precinct.  You will have the opportunity to explore all three buildings: the award-winning contemporary Catherine Helen Spence Wing with its iconic glass foyer, the Mortlock Wing with its 19th century Victorian splendour, and the 1861 heritage listed Institute Building.

Sweeping stadium views, stylish bar and lounge, premium menu and extensive wine list.  Bespoke Wine Bar & Kitchen is one of Adelaide’s most impressive dining experiences.

Extending across level three of Oval Hotel and into the iconic Adelaide Oval, Bespoke’s unique setting makes a stunning backdrop lunch.

Executive Chef Daniel Simpson’s modern Australian menu brings bold flavours to life through fresh, seasonal produce.  Two drinks are included, and you may choose from house wine, beer or a soft drink.

After lunch you will be transferred to the North Terrace, Adelaide city where you can choose to spend your time either at Rundle Mall, The Art Gallery of South Australia or South Australian Museum.

 

PLEASE NOTE:  We have been advised that the carpet is being replaced in the Mortlock Chamber (section of the library) and we are now unable to conduct tours through this section during July so we will amend the Private tour of the State Library slightly and now include access to the basement (old & rare artifacts storage) which is an area of the library usually inaccessible to the public. 

 

Private 60 minute tour of State Library of South Australia | 30 July 2025 – 11:00am

Guests will have the opportunity to explore one of South Australia’s great institutions and take a look behind the shelves. An expert librarian will take you on a walk sharing stories of how the State Library began. Your experience starts at the historic Adelaide Circulating Library to learn the history of the building. By 1861, the collection of books held there was to became the first public library in South Australia. The Adelaide Circulating Library has been used in the past as a backdrop to several movies including Shine and Gallipoli. Continue your way to the basement to see some of the interesting old & rare artifacts housed in the library. Discover how the state’s most important treasures are maintained in the state-of-the-art storage and how the preservations team cares for the collection. 

Legends that have joined us on previous experiences