Families across Hampshire can take advantage of free bus travel for children throughout August, thanks to a nationwide summer initiative aimed at helping households save money during the school holidays.
Children aged between 5 and 15 can travel free on participating local bus services across England as part of the UK Government’s Great British Summer of Savings campaign. In Hampshire, all major bus operators are taking part, including Stagecoach, Go South Coast and First Bus.
The scheme is designed to make it easier and more affordable for families to enjoy days out, visit friends and relatives, or simply travel around the county during the summer break.
Councillor Steve Forster, Hampshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Passenger Transport, said Hampshire’s extensive bus network connects cities, towns and many of the county’s most popular visitor attractions.
He said: “Hampshire has an extensive bus network linking our cities, towns and many visitor attractions, including popular countryside destinations. People may be surprised by how many places they can reach by bus, and journeys can be planned easily online.
“Free travel for children and young people, alongside the £3 fare cap for adults, makes bus travel an affordable and convenient option for family days out during the summer holidays. Every pound saved can make a real difference at a time when household budgets are often stretched.
“We also want to encourage more people to discover the benefits of travelling by bus and make it part of their everyday routine. That’s why we are continuing to invest in year-round improvements, including faster, more frequent and reliable services, alongside the infrastructure needed to support them.”
The offer opens up access to a wide range of destinations across Hampshire and beyond, including historic cities, market towns, countryside attractions, coastal resorts, museums and family-friendly attractions.
Families are encouraged to check with their local bus operator for participating services and plan their journeys in advance before making the most of the free travel offer, which runs throughout August.