Harnessed and clipped to a safety line, climbers on the RoofClimb experience walk along the curved roofline of Adelaide Oval, the historic cricket and football ground on the edge of the city's parklands. The guided climb takes small groups up and over the western grandstands, pausing at platforms that look down into the arena and out across the River Torrens, the cathedral and the Adelaide Hills. The activity opened after the Oval's major 2014 redevelopment, which wrapped modern grandstands around the heritage scoreboard and northern mound, and it follows the model of bridge and stadium climbs elsewhere. Routes run during the day, at twilight and after dark, and on event days climbers can watch matches and concerts from high above the crowd. Before setting out, participants are fitted with a climb suit and harness and given a safety briefing, and the route involves stairs and walkways rather than difficult scrambling, making it accessible to most reasonably fit people. Guides share stories about the ground's long history and point out the landmarks spread below. The high vantage point gives a perspective on the city that few visitors otherwise see, taking in the green sweep of the parklands, the spires of North Adelaide and the distant ranges. Sunset and night climbs are particularly popular for the way the city lights come up across the view. As an add-on to the Oval's stadium tours and its cricket museum, the roof climb has helped turn the ground into a year-round attraction rather than a venue used only on match days. For visitors after a mix of heritage, sport and a touch of adventure, it offers all three in a single outing. Climbs are booked in advance for a set time, and the operator supplies all equipment, asking only that participants wear flat, enclosed shoes and dress for the weather, since the experience goes ahead in light rain. There is a minimum age and height, and a breathalyser check before some sessions, in line with the safety rules common to such attractions. The walk lasts around two hours including the briefing, and groups are kept small so the guide can point out landmarks and field questions. For visitors who have already toured the Oval at ground level, the rooftop route adds a memorable finale and some of the best photographs of Adelaide available anywhere.

Type: Activity

Address: War Memorial Drive, Adelaide, Australia

Telephone: (08) 8331 5222

Website: https://www.roofclimb.com.au