England's Bus Fare Cap to Return to £2 From January 2027

Millions of bus passengers across England could pay less for travel next year after the government announced that the maximum fare for eligible single bus journeys will return to £2.

From 1 January 2027, the current £3 fare cap for eligible bus services in England outside London will be reduced to £2. The lower cap will remain in place throughout 2027 and is backed by £454 million of additional government funding to support participating bus operators.

The fare cap applies to eligible local bus services in England outside London. London is not included because it operates its own fare system, with fares set separately by Transport for London.

Passengers who currently pay the £3 maximum fare could save up to £1 on each eligible single journey once the lower cap comes into effect. Fares that are already below £2 will remain unchanged.

The government says the funding is intended to help keep bus travel affordable while encouraging greater use of public transport. The announcement restores the £2 maximum fare that was previously available before the cap increased to £3.

Not every bus service is part of the scheme, so passengers should check with their local operator to confirm whether their route is included. Existing concessionary travel schemes and local discounted fares will continue to operate separately.

For regular bus users, the lower fare cap provides a straightforward way to reduce everyday travel costs without needing to apply or register.