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Children under 14 years of age are not permitted to travel without being accompanied throughout the journey by a responsible person aged 16 years or over.
Children aged 14 - 15 years old may travel unaccompanied, as from 5am, arriving at their booked destination no later than 10pm. Unaccompanied children will be asked for proof of age or a signed letter of permission from their parent/guardian. (sms or chat based messages are not permissible)

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Kids travel free with National Express this festive season

Published: 17th November 2025


Kids travel free with National Express this festive season


 

National Express is helping families save on their festive adventures with free coach travel for kids until 4th January 2026*. 

 

At a busy time of year when parents are feeling the pinch, the nation’s favourite coach operator is offering affordable fares from £6 one-way** while up to three children aged 15 and under can travel for free with a fare-paying adult. 

 

Tickets are available now at www.nationalexpress.com/kids-travel-free, using the promo code KIDSFREE.

 

Sarah Rosier, Customer Experience Director for National Express, said:

 

"At this time of year we know it can be stressful and expensive for families. That’s why we're making it easier and more affordable to create special memories together this festive season. 


"Whether it's visiting the Christmas markets, watching a pantomime, or a Twixmas trip to keep the kids entertained, our kids go free offer is helping parents save on travel costs so they can enjoy winter adventures with the whole family."

 

Amidst planned rail disruption over the Christmas and New Year period, the UK’s biggest scheduled coach operator is stepping up with thousands of frequent, reliable and convenient coaches to destinations across the UK.

 

National Express continues to lead the way in reliability, with punctuality across its coach network consistently exceeding 90% and cancellations less than 0.2%. Passengers can rely on the UK’s most trusted service, offering an extensive network of routes connecting destinations across the country and a market-leading customer experience. 

 

Families can expect a safe and comfortable experience onboard, including:

 

  • Leather reclining seats: Seats are guaranteed but you can choose a preferred seat for an extra £2 per person

  • Family-friendly travel: Most coaches include free child booster seats for the little ones to enjoy the best views, just ask the driver

  • Free Wi-Fi and USB power sockets: Stay connected and keep the kids entertained with free Wi-Fi on selected services 

  • Plenty of luggage space: Room for all the family’s Christmas gifts with a generous luggage allowance of up to 20kg per passenger. Prams and pushchairs are also carried for free


Customers are encouraged to book early to secure their free child place and to guarantee a seat for travel. To plan your journey visit www.nationalexpress.com/kids-travel-free

 

 

*Terms and Conditions apply, full details available at www.nationalexpress.com/kids-travel-free

**Limited availability between 19 December 2025 - 4 January 2026. No booking fee when logged into My Account and purchasing on the National Express website or app, otherwise £1.50 booking fee applies. Fares correct 03.11.2025

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For all media enquiries and filming opportunities please contact the press office on pressoffice@nationalexpress.com
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National Express UK businesses:
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