By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Government scheme offers free bus journeys for under-16s across England throughout August

Families across England are set to benefit from free bus travel for children this summer, as a new government scheme aims to ease the cost of living during the school holidays.

From 1 August to 31 August, all children aged between 5 and 15 will be able to travel for free on participating local bus services nationwide, providing a significant saving for families during one of the most expensive times of the year.

Scheme Launched Ahead of Summer Holidays

The announcement comes as schools break up for the summer, with Roads Minister Simon Lightwood visiting Bath on Thursday 9 July to officially launch the initiative.

During the visit, he met with local leaders, bus operators, teachers, parents and schoolchildren to discuss the benefits of the scheme.

With typical child fares ranging between £1 and £2, the move is expected to reduce travel costs considerably, particularly for families planning day trips.

Free travel for children under five is already available across most major bus operators.

The initiative forms part of the government’s wider Great British Summer Savings programme, designed to help households make the most of the holidays at a lower cost.

Helping Families Make the Most of Summer

Alongside free bus travel, the scheme includes a range of discounts aimed at reducing everyday expenses over the summer period.

These include savings on children’s meals in restaurants, discounted tickets for theatres and cinemas, and reduced entry prices for attractions such as theme parks, adventure centres and soft play venues.

The aim is to make it easier for families to enjoy outings, whether visiting national parks, exploring museums or spending time at the seaside.

Government Focus on Affordability and Access

Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander said: “Great British Summer Savings means more people can be excited about getting out and about this summer, whether it’s seeing the Roman Baths, learning something new at the Science Museum, or falling asleep on the bus ride home after a day riding rollercoasters at Alton Towers.

“I know that the cost of living is a concern for households across the UK, which is why we’re cutting the cost of the day-to-day, with free bus travel for children this summer and the £3 bus fare cap helping more families make the most of the small plans that make life enjoyable.”

The government says the scheme is part of a broader effort to improve affordability and accessibility across public transport.

The £3 bus fare cap has been extended until March 2027, while a rail fare freeze announced earlier this year is expected to save passengers £600 million.

In addition, £3 billion is being invested nationally to improve bus services, supporting local authorities and operators to deliver more reliable and frequent routes.

Local Leaders Welcome Expansion

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, welcomed the national rollout of a scheme that has already proved successful in her region:

“I am so excited that Kids Go Free is back again! We know what a massive impact this has had for families in the West, helping kids explore the best of the West and putting money back in parents’ pockets.

“I am thrilled that the government has seen how successful our scheme has been, and that Kids Go Free is going national for August. This will give West Country families the chance to explore even further.”

Tourism leaders have also praised the initiative for encouraging more people to explore destinations across the country.

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “It’s fantastic to see free bus travel for children as the summer holidays get underway, supporting families to get out and explore the outstanding attractions and destinations across England in a stress-free and environmentally friendly way.

“Whether enjoying a trip to our stunning seaside destinations, beautiful countryside or our vibrant city attractions, there is so much to discover during the summer across England.

“I know our tourism and hospitality businesses will be very pleased to see you.”