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UK Offers Free August Bus Travel for Kids, Saves £27

5/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The UK government will offer free bus travel for children aged five to fifteen on local buses in England from 1 to 31 August.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the Great British Summer Savings Scheme will fund the fare-free programme with over £100 million.
The Treasury estimates a family with two children could save about £27 on August bus fares.

History

Historical Context

In 2006 the Scottish Executive launched Britain’s first national concessionary bus scheme for over-60s, and the UK Parliament passed the Concessionary Bus Travel Act in 2007 extending free off-peak travel nationwide. Building on that precedent, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the Great British Summer Savings Scheme, offering free August rides to children aged five to fifteen.

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Story summary

The UK government will offer free bus travel for children aged five to fifteen on local buses in England from 1 to 31 August.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the Great British Summer Savings Scheme will fund the fare-free programme with over £100 million.
The Treasury estimates a family with two children could save about £27 on August bus fares.

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