Children can ride buses for free during the Christmas season.

Young passengers will once again be able to travel on buses without charge, following the success of a summer initiative that attracted over 900,000 participants.

The summer program provided thousands of complimentary bus trips weekly across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and Bath and North East Somerset.

The Kids Go Free initiative will return for the Christmas holidays, allowing children under 16 to ride for free from 20 December to 4 January 2026.

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, stated, "With more new green electric buses being introduced, we are committed to continuing efforts to develop a bus network that meets the needs of our communities."

A survey revealed that one in five children participating had rarely, or never, used the bus before, and nearly half said the program encouraged them to consider using public transport more in the future.

Parents also praised the initiative. Alex, a mother from Nailsea, commented, "Introducing children to bus travel early helps prepare them for independent journeys later."

Another parent, Donna, with three children, said the scheme allowed her family to explore numerous destinations around Bristol City Centre. "The kids can go out more, doing things we wouldnt otherwise," she added.

During the holiday period, children can enjoy free bus rides across Bristol and the surrounding areas.

Author: Gavin Porter