I've been a wild rover for many a year
I've spent all my money on whiskey and beer
And now I've returned 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 be the Wild Rover
No never no more

I went down to the ale house I use to frequent
I told the land lady my money was spent
I asked her for credit, she answered me "nay"
Such custom like yours I could have any day

I took from my pocket ten sovereign bright
The land lady's eyes opened wide with delight
She said I've got whiskeys and wines of the best
And I'll take you upstairs and I'll show you the rest

I went back to my parents, confessed what I'd done
I asked them to pardon their prodigal son
And when they caress me, like oft times before
I never will play the Wild Rover no more