I've been a wild rover for many the years
And I've spent all my money on whiskey and beer
But now I'm returning, with gold in great store
And I never will play the Wild Rover no more

And it's no, nay, never
No, nay, never, no more
Will I play the wild rover
Nay, never, no more

I went to an ale house I used to frequent
And told the landlady my money was spent
I asked her for credit, she answered me, "Nay,
Such a customer as yours I could have any day."

I took from my pocket ten sovereigns bright
And the landlady's eyes opened wide with delight
She said, "I have whiskey and wines of the best,
And the words that I spoke sure were only in jest."

I'll go home to my parents confess what I've done
And I'll ask them to pardon their prodigal son
And if they caress me, as oft times before
Sure I'll never will play the wild rover no more