Families across the region are being encouraged to make the most of the summer holidays thanks to a new scheme allowing children to travel free on Stagecoach buses throughout August.
As part of the UK Government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme, children aged between 5 and 15 can travel for free on most local Stagecoach bus services across England from the 1st to the 31st of August, 2026.
The government-funded initiative aims to help families save money while encouraging people to explore their local communities and enjoy days out during the school holidays. Whether visiting family and friends, taking a trip to the park, or checking out any of the excellent local attractions we have in the North-West.
The free travel offer applies to most local bus journeys in England for children aged 5-15. However, parents and carers should be aware that some services are excluded from the scheme. These include certain longer-distance coach services, routes where older and disabled persons’ concessionary travel is not available, and dedicated school bus services. On these routes, normal child fares will continue to apply throughout August, with tickets available to purchase on board using cash or contactless payment methods, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Stagecoach is reminding customers that children under the age of five already travel free all year round, making bus travel an even more attractive option for families.
Full information on the offer running throughout August 2026, including a list of journeys excluded from the offer, can be found on the Stagecoach website.

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