Oranges and Lemons Lyrics

First published around 1744, this rhyme names various London churches by their bell sounds. Also a popular children's singing game where two children form an arch with their arms and others pass underneath until the arch "chops off" the last one. Best for ages 4–9. The bell-sound imitations ("oranges and lemons," "you owe me five farthings") are excellent vocal-modeling practice — each church has a distinct rhythm matched to its bell. Music educators use it to develop tonal memory and discrimination. For more group singing games, see [top 10 circle time songs for preschool](/blog/top-10-circle-time-songs-for-preschool).

Oranges and lemons,
Say the bells of St. Clement's.
You owe me five farthings,
Say the bells of St. Martin's.

When will you pay me?
Say the bells of Old Bailey.
When I grow rich,
Say the bells of Shoreditch.

Here comes a candle
To light you to bed.
Here comes a chopper
To chop off your head!