Kids Go Free bus travel scheme expands across England

From 1 August to 31 August 2026, the UK Government's Kids Go Free programme will allow children aged 5‑15 to travel for free on participating bus services throughout England. In Nottinghamshire, Stagecoach Easy promotes a range of family‑friendly day trips, highlighting attractions such as Newark Castle, Sherwood Forest and Rufford Abbey, all reachable on free‑fare routes.

Somerset Council has coordinated with local operators to ensure the scheme covers the county, with councillor Richard Wilkins noting the benefits for families, the environment and regional tourism. The free‑travel offer, combined with the existing £3 adult fare cap, is expected to encourage more local travel and support businesses in coastal and rural destinations.