Free summer bus travel begins for Fylde coast kids
Getting to - and getting into - venues will be cheaper during August.
Under 16s in Lancashire will be able to travel for free on buses across the county throughout August, as part of a nationwide government initiative.
It is part of the Great British Summer Savings scheme, a package of measures designed to make it more affordable for families to enjoy days out during the summer holidays.
While operators are not obliged to take part in the offer, Blackpool Transport and Stagecoach are amongst those to have signed up. Children’s bus fares typically cost between £1 and £2.
The broader savings initiative includes cut-price meals from children’s menus at restaurants, cheaper children’s tickets for theatres and cinemas and a reduction in the cost of entry for for all at attractions such as adventure centres, theme parks and soft play spaces.
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Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "We're giving families room to breathe from the cost of living squeeze.
"With free bus travel for 5-15-year-olds and discounts on kids' meals at restaurants, cinema tickets and theme parks, we're helping people make the most of the time they have together for the school holidays.
"Not only are we lowering costs for the summer, the £2 bus fare cap [to begin in January 2027] will help all passengers get to where they need to for less."
The Lancashire Combined County Authority - the transport body for Lancashire - was also approached for comment.
Rob Parkinson, Chief Executive of the Family Holiday charity, said of the bus savings: “A family holiday or day out doesn’t start when we arrive at our destination, it begins with the journey. Travel should be filled with anticipation, but for many families the cost of getting out and about can make quality time together feel less accessible.
“We welcome the commitment that wherever possible children will travel for free on public transport this summer – and look forward to hearing how the Great British Summer Savings initiative has unlocked new experiences for families throughout the UK.”
VisitEngland Director, Andrew Stokes, added: "It’s fantastic to see free bus travel for children as the summer holidays get underway, supporting families to get out and explore the outstanding attractions and destinations across England in a stress-free and environmentally friendly way.
“Whether enjoying a trip to our stunning seaside destinations, beautiful countryside or our vibrant city attractions, there is so much to discover during the summer across England. I know our tourism and hospitality businesses will be very pleased to see you."