The UK government has announced that more than 14 million children in England will be eligible for free bus journeys throughout August as part of the Great British Summer Savings Scheme. The initiative aims to ease financial pressures on households during the summer holidays.
Eligibility and Details
Children aged between five and 15 can travel free on participating buses across England. The scheme does not apply to London, where children already benefit from free or reduced fares. Outside London, typical child bus fares range from £1 to £2 per journey, varying by local authority.
Transport Secretary 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.”
Cost of Living Context
Alexander 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.”
London Comparison
In London, children under five travel for free at all times, while up to four children aged five to 10 can travel for free with an adult. Those aged 11 to 15 pay child fare rates, and those over 16 may be eligible for half-price travel using an Oyster Card. The new scheme extends free travel to children outside London for the month of August.
Industry Support
Andrew Stokes, director of VisitEngland, 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.”
