Free and discounted travel in the UK: how to get around for less

"A free taxi for everyone" is a myth, and it is fairer to say it plainly: there is no single "ride for free" button in Britain. But there are several real, legal ways to avoid paying for travel or to claim the money back — especially for trips to medical treatment, for older people and for disabled people. Here is how it works.

Is there a free taxi for everyone?

No. Ordinary taxis and minicabs in Britain are paid for by everyone, and nobody will drive you for free "just because". But specific situations — travel to treatment, disability, old age — are covered by dedicated schemes used by millions of people. Below are the ones that actually work.

How do you get to hospital for free?

In an emergency, call 999 — you do not have to pay to be taken to hospital by ambulance, as the NHS website states. For planned journeys there is the free Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (PTS): it is for people who, on medical grounds, find it hard to travel themselves — for example those who need support during the journey or find it difficult to walk. Check your eligibility and how to book with your healthcare team or local NHS transport service.

Can you claim back the cost of travel to treatment?

Yes — through the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS). You can reclaim travel costs if three conditions are met: you or your partner receive a qualifying benefit or meet the NHS Low Income Scheme criteria (an HC2 or HC3 certificate); a healthcare professional has referred you to a specialist or hospital for treatment or tests; and the appointment is a separate visit, not on the day of referral. You pay for the travel first, then claim within three months at the hospital cashier or using form HC5(T). Routine visits to a GP or dentist do not count.

Who gets free bus travel?

An older person's bus pass gives free bus travel once you reach State Pension age — you apply through your local council. In London the rules are more generous: from age 60 you can travel free on buses, tubes and other transport with a 60+ Oyster photocard. Disabled people can apply for a separate disabled person's bus pass, again through the local council. This is probably the most widely used way to "travel for free" in the country.

What if you cannot use the bus?

In London, TfL Dial-a-Ride offers door-to-door journeys for residents with a permanent or long-term disability who cannot use public transport. You qualify without further assessment if, for example, you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of DLA, the mobility component of PIP, are registered blind or partially sighted, are aged 85 or over, or receive a War Pension Mobility Supplement. You apply by form or by phone on 0343 222 7777. Separately, the Taxicard scheme offers discounted (not free) taxi trips for people with serious mobility difficulties.