A major change to bus travel rules is set to take effect across England from next month, potentially benefiting more than 14 million people.
The government has announced that free local bus journeys will be available throughout August as part of efforts to reduce financial pressures on households during the summer break.
The initiative forms a key component of the Great British Summer Savings Scheme, designed to help people enjoy affordable days out during the school holidays.
Children aged five to 15 can travel free on participating buses from August 1 through to August 31, 2026.
The scheme aims to encourage families and young people to explore attractions, beaches and museums during the summer holidays without worrying about transport costs.
While youngsters in London already benefit from free bus travel, those living elsewhere in England currently face varying charges set by their local authorities, with typical fares ranging between £1 and £2 per journey.
The scheme has received approval from outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who is widely anticipated to be succeeded by Andy Burnham, along with Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
The scheme has received approval from outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
|
GETTY
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: “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.”
She added: “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 has also extended the £3 cap on single bus fares for adults until March 2027, forming part of broader efforts to improve public transport accessibility.
Children aged five to 15 can travel free on participating buses throughout August 2026
|
GETTY
This builds upon a £3billion investment programme aimed at enhancing bus services nationally, supporting local authorities and operators in delivering more reliable routes for passengers.
Roads Minister Simon Lightwood travelled to Bath on 9 July to meet with local leaders and bus companies ahead of the scheme’s launch, discussing how the measures would assist families during the summer period.
The government has also extended the £3 cap on single bus fares for adults until March 2027
|
GETTY
Andrew Stokes, Director of VisitEngland, welcomed the announcement, saying: “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.”
Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, described the move as important for easing financial strain on households, noting: “Investing in affordable, reliable bus services is one of the most cost-effective ways of improving people’s quality of life and tackling rising energy costs year-round.”