What to do Newcastle this Easter: Kids bus journeys across the North East made FREE

Kids can travel free on bus routes across the North East this Easter.

Fare-paying customers will be able to enjoy free travel for up to three children aged 11 and under across local public transport in Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and Durham for a month until 7 May.

The Tyne and Wear Metro and Shields Ferry already have in place a permanent deal for customers to take the kids for free when they travel.

Transport bosses have welcomed the offers launched by bus companies Arriva North East, Go North East and Stagecoach North East.

The initiative will help families hit hard by the rising cost of living to get out and about this Easter.

Managing Director of Transport North East Tobyn Hughes said: “We’re working in partnership with the bus operators and Nexus to make public transport cheaper, easier and greener – by far the best way to travel around our amazing region.

“It’s great news that our region’s bus companies are expanding this great value offer, already available on the Metro and the Shields Ferry, to include buses.

“People travelling with children can enjoy great value travel on public transport across Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and County Durham.

"If you’re travelling by any combination of bus, Metro and the Shields Ferry, each fare-paying adult can bring along up to three children aged 11 and under for free.

“This offer will help families to get out and about on public transport more affordably over the Easter break, enjoying our fantastic region whilst maintaining a low carbon footprint.”

Customers are advised to check the terms and conditions of each operator before travelling, with some season tickets and those who do not pay for their travel excluded from the scheme.

Managing Director at Stagecoach North East Steve Walker said: “After such a challenging couple of years, we're delighted to introduce this free travel offer for children travelling with a fare-paying adult, allowing families to explore the many great spaces on offer which our buses serve across Tyne and Wear.

"As the weather starts to improve and families get back to spending time together, it's time to leave the car at home, save some money and keep the kids entertained this April.

“This free travel offer for children provides families with a great opportunity to make the most of our connected public transport, whether it is to meet up with friends, visit family members or experience all that the region has to offer."