The Mayor of London's new Weekend Hopper scheme launches this weekend, allowing unlimited bus and tram journeys across the capital for the price of a single fare. The scheme runs from July 25 to August 31, covering weekends and the August bank holiday Monday.
What is the Weekend Hopper scheme?
For the first time, anyone travelling by bus or tram on a Saturday or Sunday during the summer holidays can make unlimited journeys within an hour of the first journey for a single £1.75 fare. The scheme aims to make travel cheaper and simpler for Londoners and visitors. A family of two adults and two children under 16 could travel all day for £3.50, saving up to £7 a day or £14 over a weekend if they make three or more bus journeys.
How does it work?
Passengers tap in with an Oyster card, contactless bank card, or mobile device on their first bus or tram of the day, and are charged £1.75. Every subsequent touch-in on a bus or tram for the rest of that day is free, capping travel at £1.75 for the whole Saturday or Sunday. The journey is calculated automatically, provided the same card or device is used for every journey.
When will the scheme run?
The offer runs over weekends from July 25 to August 31, including the August bank holiday Monday, when millions travel for Notting Hill Carnival, which marks its 60th anniversary this year.
Does it apply to all transport?
No, the offer only applies to TfL trams and buses. The Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line, and River Bus services are not included and cost standard fares. Bus and tram fares remain frozen at £1.75 until November 1, 2026, after TfL extended the freeze for four months from July 5.
What other schemes are there?
TfL supports the Government's Great British Summer Savings Scheme, allowing children under 16 to travel free by bus during August. Children, teenagers, and Londoners aged 16 to 18 can already travel free on buses and trams with a valid Zip Oyster photocard. From August 1 to 31, children under 16 visiting without a Zip Card can also travel on buses for free.
What has the Mayor of London said?
Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “During 10 years as Mayor, I’ve been committed to keeping public transport as affordable as possible – including a record seven freezes on bus and tram fares, which I recently extended until November to further support Londoners with the cost-of-living crisis. Buses and trams are a lifeline for many Londoners, and I’m determined to keep them the most accessible and affordable mode of transport in the capital. I’m pleased that my Hopper fare has enabled millions of people to enjoy cheaper bus travel over the past decade, and this new Weekend Hopper will help open up our great city even more, as we continue building a fairer and better London for everyone.”
