Free bus travel: who qualifies where
Each part of the UK — and Ireland — runs its own scheme, and they're surprisingly different. Find yours below.
England
Scotland
Wales
London
Northern Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Frequently asked questions
Who gets free bus travel in England?
The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) gives free off-peak bus travel to people of State Pension age and to eligible disabled people — valid on local buses anywhere in England from 9:30am to 11pm on weekdays and all day at weekends and bank holidays. Apply through your local council.
Who gets free bus travel in Scotland?
Scotland is the most generous: everyone under 22, everyone 60 and over, and eligible disabled people travel free on local buses anywhere in Scotland at any time, using a National Entitlement Card (NEC).
Who gets free bus travel in Wales?
Everyone 60 and over and eligible disabled people travel free on local buses anywhere in Wales, any time of day, with a Welsh Concessionary Travel Card.
What about London?
Londoners 66+ get a Freedom Pass (free bus, Tube, rail in London); the 60+ London Oyster covers 60–65s. Children under 11 travel free, and 11–17s travel free or half price with the right Zip Oyster card.
Can I use an English bus pass in Scotland or Wales?
No — the schemes are national. An ENCTS pass works anywhere in England, but not across the border (and vice versa), apart from a few cross-border routes with special arrangements.
Do children travel free on buses?
Under-5s travel free everywhere. Older children pay reduced fares set by each operator — and in August 2026, children aged 5–15 could travel free on participating English services as a government summer initiative.
Eligibility rules change — confirm details with the issuing body before travelling. Companions/carers may also travel free with some disabled passes depending on the council.