Sunday 2nd August 2026
By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor
Families travelling across East Yorkshire this summer will benefit from free bus travel for children, as the region’s two major operators — Stagecoach East Midlands and East Yorkshire Buses — sign up to the Government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme.
The Mayor has gone further by funding a 50% discount for 16–19‑year‑olds, making bus travel significantly cheaper for young people throughout August.
From Saturday 1st to Monday 31st August 2026, every child aged five to 15 boarding a bus in East Yorkshire will travel completely free, while those aged 16 to 19 can travel at half price simply by asking for a Mayor’s Fares ticket.
The scheme aims to help families plan days out, visit loved ones and enjoy the summer holidays without the added financial pressure. No registration or travel card is required — children can simply board Stagecoach East Midlands and East Yorkshire buses at no cost.
Under the initiative, the most anyone aged under 20 will pay is £1.50 for a single or £3 for a return journey within the HEYCA region. Adults aged 20 and over will also benefit from the Government’s fare cap, paying no more than £3 for a single trip.
Matt Kitchin, managing director of East Yorkshire, said: “We're delighted to take part in this money‑saving initiative for kids to travel free, giving the opportunity to visit the many brilliant destinations we serve by bus across East Yorkshire. It’s a great opportunity to get out and explore our region during the summer holidays.”
Matt Cranwell, managing director of Stagecoach East Midlands, added: “We’re making it even easier for families to leave the car at home and enjoy a great value day out. Public transport plays an important role in connecting communities with all the fun and popular attractions our region has to offer.”
The fare initiatives also support wider goals to encourage sustainable travel and increase public transport use during the busy summer period.
Luke Campbell MBE, Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire, said: “I am excited that our region’s bus operators have signed up to offer free bus travel for children throughout August. Through a Mayor’s Fare ticket, anyone aged over 15 but under 20 can travel half price. This will help keep costs down and allow residents to access all the great places, activities and events we have to offer.”
Councillor Nick Coultish, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure, tourism and planning, said: “This is a fantastic money‑saver for local families during the summer holidays. It’s an ideal opportunity to ditch the car and hop on a bus to explore more of our wonderful region. There is so much to see and do in the East Riding right now, from our Kids Go Wild programme at nature reserves to the Summer of Fun at Sewerby Hall and Gardens, and all the events along our coastline.”
