Free bus journeys for children return to the West for Easter holidays
Kids Go Free initiative aims to support families and increase bus travel
The Kids Go Free scheme is back in the West of England just in time for the Easter school holidays.
This initiative will offer free bus travel from 3rd April to 19th April for children under 16 across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.
The scheme has previously led to significant increases in bus usage by children and young people during the summer and Christmas holidays in 2025, according to recent data.
The scheme, funded by the Bus Grant from the Department for Transport, aims to alleviate travel costs for families, particularly in areas with lower incomes.
Children can explore their region at no cost, with no need for tickets or ID — simply hop on a registered bus.
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, expressed enthusiasm for the return of the initiative, stating:
"In the summer, we had just under about a million kids taking free bus journeys, which was fabulous."
Families in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire are encouraged to make the most of the scheme and discover everything their local area has to offer.
Councillor Kevin Guy, Deputy Mayor of the West of England, said:
"The return of Kids Go Free over the Easter holidays is fantastic news for families in Bath & North East Somerset."
Helen Godwin also emphasised the importance of addressing travel costs amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
"We are still struggling, aren't we... everyday stuff feels really, really expensive."
The regional authorities are inviting people to participate in a bus survey to share their thoughts on improving bus services across the West.
This feedback will support conversations with operators, aiming to enhance the reliability and affordability of the transport network.
To take part in the survey, search for ‘West of England bus survey’ online or look out for QR codes at bus stops.