UK Announces Free Bus Travel Scheme for Children in England

The UK government announced a free bus travel scheme for children in England on 20 May 2026. The measure is part of the “Great British Summer Savings” package and applies to participating local bus services during August 2026.

Scheme Coverage and Eligibility

The scheme allows children aged five to 15 in England to travel free on participating local buses. No registration is required, and the offer covers unlimited journeys at no cost to families. The scheme applies during the school holiday period in August 2026.

Funding and Administrative Features

The government has committed over £100 million for the free fares scheme and for continued support to bus services. The initiative is linked to cost-of-living support and is designed for use on local bus networks that join the scheme. The policy is administered in England under the UK government’s transport and family support framework.

Related Pilot Schemes

The free travel plan follows earlier local pilots in England. The “Kids Go Free” scheme in the West of England began in summer 2025 and recorded around 1.4 million free journeys over past holidays. North East Mayor Kim McGuinness launched a separate “Kids Go Free” initiative in 2024 for school holidays.

Important Facts for Exams

• England is one of the four constituent countries of the United Kingdom.
• Bus transport in the United Kingdom is regulated through national and local transport authorities.
• School holidays in England usually include the month of August for summer breaks.
• Free-fare schemes are often used as temporary public transport support measures.

Other Measures Announced

The package also includes targeted cuts to agri-food tariffs on more than 100 products. The listed products include biscuits, chocolate, dried fruit, and nuts, and the measure is expected to save consumers over £150 million a year.