Kids Go Free - Ends Monday 31 August 2026.

Get ready for a summer of adventures. As part of the UK Government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme, children aged 5–15 can travel with Stagecoach on the majority of our bus services for FREE* across England throughout August.

How to get your free child ticket

When you board, simply ask the driver for a free child ticket.  Let the driver know where you're travelling to, and they'll issue the ticket for you.  A ticket must still be issued for every child travelling. 

Free travel is available on most local bus journeys in England between 1 and 31 August 2026 for children aged 5–15 inclusive. However, some services are not included in the scheme, including certain longer-distance coach services, routes where older and disabled persons’ concessionary travel is not available, and dedicated school bus services.

Please note that the Kids Go Free Scheme ends on Monday 31 August 2026, normal fares will apply across all Stagecoach bus services in England from 1 September 2026. 

A full list of excluded services can be found below. On these services, normal child fares will apply throughout August 2026 and tickets can be purchased on board using cash or contactless payment, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Excluded Bus Services

Don't forget, kids under 5 travel free all year round.

Whether you’re heading to the park, meeting friends, visiting family, going shopping or exploring somewhere new, the bus can take you there – helping families make the most of summer for less.

Looking for inspiration? Check out our great days out by bus across England, from seaside trips and city adventures to family attractions and hidden gems, and start planning your next summer day out.

Make summer go further with great savings for the whole family. As part of the Government's Great British Summer Savings Scheme, families can access discounts and offers on a wide range of attractions, days out, restaurants, cinemas and theatres across the country.  Discover ideas and offers to help you make the most of the summer at summersavings.gov.uk

 

To help everyone have a fun, safe and friendly journey, please share with your kids our top Bus Hero Tips below.

Before you set off

• Tell your parent, guardian or another trusted adult where you’re going. 
• Practise your journey with a parent or guardian before travelling on your own. 
• Travelling with friends? Arrange to meet at the bus stop and travel together. 
• Charge your phone, and download the Stagecoach Bus App before you leave home.

Hop on like a pro

• Wait for the bus to stop completely and the doors to open. 
• Ask the driver for a free child ticket, tell them where you’re going, and keep your ticket safe. 
• Board calmly, use the handrails and grab a seat quickly. 
• Remember your manners – a smile and a “thank you” go a long way!

 

During your journey 

• Use headphones to keep music and videos at a sensible volume so you can hear important announcements. 
• Stay seated while the bus is moving. 
• Keep your bag and belongings with you. 
• If you ever feel worried or unsafe, sit near the driver and let them know

Getting off safely

• Press the bell in plenty of time. 
• Wait until the bus has stopped before standing up. 
• Take all your belongings with you. 
• Never cross in front of or behind the bus. 
• Wait until the bus has moved away before crossing the road so you can see any traffic.

Let’s keep the bus fun for everyone

Being polite, respecting others and following the driver's instructions helps make every journey safe, comfortable and enjoyable.

 

Plan your next adventure with the Stagecoach Bus App

• Plan your trip before you travel.
• Check live bus times and service updates.
• Track your bus in real time.
• Give parents and guardians added peace of mind by following their child’s bus journey in real time. 

 

Important Information

• E-scooters and bicycles are not permitted on board.

• Parents and guardians should familiarise themselves with our Conditions of Carriage before children travel independently.

*Terms and Conditions: Free bus travel is available on Stagecoach bus services for children aged 5-15 from 1 August - 31 August 2026.

Exclusions and restrictions apply, see here for list of bus services not included in Kids Go Free during August 2026.