Free kids' bus travel in August: save £££ on family days out
If you’re dreading the school holidays because of the cost, here’s some good news: throughout August, your children can travel free on buses across England, and adult fares are capped at just £3 per journey. This is a genuine money-saver for families looking to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank.
The government introduced this scheme as part of efforts to ease the cost of living crisis. It’s a simple but effective way to make family days out more affordable during the summer break. Whether you’re planning a trip to a waterfall, woodland walk, art gallery, medieval forest, or even a prehistoric cave, you can get there cheaply by bus.
How to make the most of it
If you’re travelling by train to reach your destination, consider buying a PlusBus ticket. This clever add-on gives you unlimited local bus travel once you arrive, making it even easier to explore without worrying about multiple fares adding up.
The £3 cap applies to single adult journeys, so even if you’re making several trips during the day, costs remain predictable and low. The free travel for children under 16 means you could potentially take the whole family out for less than £10.
Who can use it
Free travel applies to most children in August, though it’s worth checking Transport Scotland’s website if you’re in Scotland, as schemes may vary. The £3 cap and free children’s travel applies across England on local buses.
Plan ahead
With schools off from mid-July onwards, August will be busy on buses and at popular attractions. Book any specific activities in advance if possible, and consider visiting on quieter weekdays rather than weekends.
This scheme won’t last forever, so if you’ve been putting off family outings due to cost, August is the month to make the most of it. Check the gov.uk website for the full list of routes included in the fare cap, and start planning your adventure today.