Children aged 5-15 travel free on our buses this August
This August, children aged 5–15 can travel free on our buses as part of the UK Government's Great British Summer Savings campaign.
The offer runs from 1st to 31st August 2026 and is designed to help families save money on days out, shopping trips and everyday journeys during the summer holidays.
Free travel will apply across our local bus network with some exclusions*.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is Great British Summer Savings?
From 1st-31st August 2026 inclusive, the Government is funding free bus travel for children aged 5-15 on participating bus services in England, helping families save money during the summer holidays. Find out more about Great British Summer Savings here: https://summersavings.gov.uk.
Who is eligible for free bus travel?
Children under the age of 16 will be eligible. Children aged 10 and under must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over.
Will ID be required?
Children are not normally required to show identification. However, our drivers may request proof of age if they are unsure whether a customer falls within the eligible age range.
Can I use the offer on return journeys?
Yes. Eligible children can travel free throughout August on participating services, including multiple journeys.
Can children travel on their own?
Children aged 10 and under must be accompanied by a person aged 16 or over. Older children can travel independently in line with our normal Conditions of Carriage.
What bus journeys does it cover?
*The offer is valid on all participating local bus services. On our network, the offer applies to all routes except PickMeUp, 604, 607, 620, 624, 625, 643, 644, 654, and 681.
Is there a maximum distance?
No. There is no distance limit. Eligible children can travel free on participating services throughout our network subject to the exclusions listed above.
Do you normally use a Concessionary bus pass on our services?
If you already travel using a concessionary pass or another discounted travel scheme, nothing changes. You can continue to travel as normal using your existing pass or ticket.
Does this offer cover adult fares?
No. The free travel offer applies only to children aged 5-15. Adults and anyone aged 16 or over will need a valid ticket for travel.
View our fares and ticket options here: carouselbuses.co.uk/tickets
What happens if I change buses?
A free ticket will be issued each time an eligible child boards one of our buses. If your journey involves changing buses, simply ask for another free child ticket when boarding the next service.
Do I need to apply in advance?
No. There is no need to register or apply. Simply ask for a free child ticket when boarding the bus.
How long does the offer last?
The scheme will run until the end of August 2026.
Looking for inspiration?
Wondering where to go first? Take a look at our Things to Do guides for inspiration on places to visit by bus.
Terms and conditions
- Valid 1st-31st August 2026 inclusive.
- Available to children aged 5-15.
- Subject to availability.
- Excludes PickMeUp, 604, 607, 620, 624, 625, 643, 644, 654, and 681.
- Normal Conditions of Carriage apply.
- Offer may be amended or withdrawn if the Government scheme changes.