KIDS GO FREE! First Bus rolls out free travel for children as part of Great British Summer Savings Campaign

Families and young people will be able to make their summer plans go the extra mile this August, as children aged 5 to 15 will travel free on First Bus services across England.

Running from Saturday 1 August until Monday 31 August 2026, as part of the Government's Great British Summer Savings scheme, the initiative will help families save money on getting around during the summer holidays and support young people in exploring attractions and activities across their region.

There is no need to register or apply in advance, eligible children under 16 can just hop on board and make unlimited free journeys throughout this period. For the areas where local child fares and ticket products currently apply to older age groups, they will remain unchanged. 

Catherine De Marco, Director of Public Affairs and Public Relations, First Bus, said, “We’re proud to support the Department for Transport’s Great British Summer Savings campaign by offering free bus travel for children aged 5–15 on our services in England throughout August.

“This initiative will help families save money, encourage more people to experience the convenience of bus travel, and enable young people to access activities, opportunities and attractions across their local area.

“By making sustainable travel even more accessible, we hope to support communities while inspiring the next generation to choose greener ways to get around."

• The offer is valid on the majority of First Bus services. However, some special services, coach services and routes operated outside the scheme may not be included. See exclusions here
• For further information, journey planning and details of participating services, visit: KIDS GO FREE