Free Travel for 5-15 year olds throughout August

This August, we’re joining the UK Government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme with free travel for all children aged 5 to 15 across our bus routes. 

Between 1st to 31st August 2026 inclusive, the Government is funding free bus travel for children on bus routes in England making it cheaper for families to visit local attractions as well as go out for meals, the theatre and cinema.

With a reduction in VAT on all tickets for attractions like soft play and museums the Great British Summer Savings will help you and your family see and do more this summer. Find out more about how you could benefit from Great British Summer Savings here - https://summersavings.gov.uk/ 

Frequently asked questions

What's going on?
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?
Children under the age of 16 will be eligible. Simply ask the driver for a free child ticket when you board. The driver will issue a ticket to each child, which is a requirement of the scheme. Young people aged 16-18 will need to purchase or scan a Boost Ticket as normal.

Will ID be required?
Drivers may ask you to prove your age to qualify for free travel. This is to prevent people abusing the scheme and travelling for free when they’re not entitled to. If the driver believes you are 16 or over, you will be asked to pay a fare.

Can children travel on their own?
Whilst we expect young children will be accompanied by an adult, 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 Thames Valley Bus public bus routes except football buses F53, F54 and Go2Gate.  There is no distance limit and eligible children may make multiple journeys.

What if I normally use a Concessionary bus pass?
If you already travel using a concessionary pass, 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.

Terms and conditions

• Valid 1st-31st August 2026 inclusive. 
• Available to children aged 5-15. 
• Subject to availability. 
• Excludes Go2Gate and Football buses F53 and F54
• Normal Conditions of Carriage apply. 
• Offer may be amended or withdrawn if the Government scheme changes.