England launches free bus travel for children in August

The UK government announced that all children aged 5 to 15 in England will be able to travel for free on participating local bus services from 1 August to 31 August 2026. The measure is part of the Great British Summer Savings scheme aimed at easing the cost‑of‑living pressure on families. Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander said the scheme will help households save the typical £1‑£2 fare per journey and encourage more day‑out activities.

Roads Minister Simon Lightwood visited Bath to promote the initiative, meeting local leaders, bus operators, teachers and parents. The programme builds on existing free travel for under‑fives, the £3 bus‑fare cap extended to March 2027, a rail‑fare freeze announced earlier in the year, and a £3 billion investment to improve bus services nationwide.