The increasing cost of living means it’s essential to make your money stretch further. Thankfully, if you’re aged 60 and over, there are a huge amount of over 60s discounts, deals and offers that can help you save money.
Travel
Once you’ve reached State Pension age (currently 66), you’re eligible for an older person’s bus pass to give you free off-peak travel in England. If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you could be entitled to a free bus pass as soon as you hit 60.
Another option is the National Express Senior Coachcard for £15 a year (plus £3 p&p). This will let you save a third off standard and fully flexible fares to hundreds of towns, cities and airports across the UK. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a day-trip or short break.
If you enjoy travelling by bus, over 60s can benefit from some great deals on coach holidays. There are some superb offers available, across hundreds of superb locations across the UK. Most coach holidays also include free local pickup, with all accommodation and excursions included in the price.
If you prefer travelling by train, a senior railcard is available once you turn 60. Costing £30 for a year or £70 for three years, a senior railcard will enable you to benefit from a third off standard or first-class fares.
If you’re over 60 and live in London, you’re eligible for free travel on Transport For London transport services with a 60+ Oyster Card. This includes free travel (outside of peak times) on tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth Line and most National Rail services in London. As a bonus perk, you get free bus travel in London and discounted fares on River Services too.
Dining out
Many restaurants and pubs offer special deals to people over 60, typically during ‘quieter’ periods in the week when people are often at work.
A number of Greene King Pubs offer seniors discounts, in the form of seniors menus or discounted prices on up to two courses.
In addition, many local independent pubs and restaurants offer senior deals on certain days of the week. Be sure to ask next time you’re out for a bite to eat or a drink, you may just uncover a secret deal.
Leisure activities
The National Trust’s senior membership gives the over 60s a 25% discount off adult rates. To be eligible, the individual needs to have been a member of the organisation for a minimum of five out of the last ten years. An individual senior membership is £63.00, or you could get a joint senior membership for £104.40.
English Heritage manage over 400 historic monuments and sites across the UK, helping to bring the history of England to life. They offer a discounted rate for the over 65s, who can pick up a senior membership for £63 a year as an individual, or £96 a year for a couple. Membership offers access to 400+ historic sites and free or reduced entry to special events.
For those looking to commit for longer than a year, you could become a Royal Horticultural Society lifetime member for £935, a saving of nearly 40%. A joint membership costs £1,355.
If you’re over 60 and enjoy a good film, Odeon cinemas provide discounted tickets during quieter periods of the day. With Odeon Silvers, you could pick up a ticket from just £3.50, which includes complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits.
Showcase cinemas also offer reduced price tickets (Silver Screenings) every Monday, with tickets for all films prior to 4pm available for just £5. This also includes discounted hot drinks and snacks.
Home Support
Many local authorities across the UK offer schemes and initiatives to support seniors with home improvements. These schemes may include grants, loans, or subsidies for essential repairs, renovations, or energy efficiency upgrades.
Seniors can contact their local authority or housing department to inquire about available programs and eligibility criteria. Some local councils may also offer discounted or subsidized services, such as home maintenance, gardening, or cleaning, to help seniors maintain their homes and gardens.
If it’s time to downsize their home to make maintenance easier, there are a wealth of options and resources available to support this process. Often, seniors who downsize can benefit from having a lump sum left over after selling their existing house and buying a smaller home. However, if this is not the case, there is also support available for seniors looking for retirement mortgages.
A number of insurance providers offer discounts on home insurance premiums for seniors aged over 60. These discounts may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria, such as having a claims-free record, installing security measures, or opting for higher excess levels. Seniors can explore different insurance providers and policies to find the best coverage options and discounts for their specific needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
There are lots of great over 60s discounts available, including many more that aren’t included in the article above. The Government also offers lots of great schemes and support for older people struggling with the cost of living, including Pension Credit and a free or discounted TV license. Take a look at the Government website and see what you could be entitled to.
