The RFL has confirmed 18 venues across four countries will host matches in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

Among expected locations such as Hull, Wrexham, Warrington and Wigan, there are also some surprise choices such as Bristol's Memorial Ground and Neath's The Gnoll.

Venues for the opening ceremony, the semi-finals and the final, as well as the precise fixtures, will be confirmed early in the New Year.

"We experienced massive interest in hosting matches from all across Europe and we have had to make some tough decisions," Tournament Director Nigel Wood said.

"We are excited that the tournament will visit established world-class rugby league venues but will also visit some new locations, including Bristol and Whitehaven, where we see unique opportunities to grow the game and to deliver a lasting legacy for our sport."

The Venues:

Avignon: The Parc des Sports
Bristol: The Memorial Ground
Halifax: Shay Stadium
Huddersfield: The Galpharm Stadium
Hull: KC Stadium and Craven Park
Leeds: Headingley
Limerick: Thomond Park
Perpignan: The Stade Gilbert Brutus
Neath: The Gnoll
Rochdale: Spotland Stadium
Salford: City of Salford Stadium
St Helens: Langtree Park
Warrington: Halliwell Jones Stadium
Whitehaven: Pow Beck Stadium
Wigan: The Leigh Sports Village and DW Stadium
Wrexham: The Racecourse Stadium