Pop Goes the Weasel (British Version)

Half a pound of tuppenny rice,
Half a pound of treacle.
That’s the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.

Up and down the City Road,
In and out the Eagle,
That’s the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.

A penny for a spool of thread,
A penny for a needle,
That’s the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.

Listen female:

Listen male:

References:

¹. The Eagle refers to a pub in London that is still there today.
². Treacle is a sugary golden to black colored sugar.

More Info:

“Pop Goes the Weasel” is a classic English nursery rhyme and singing game dating back to the 19th century. Known for its catchy tune and mysterious lyrics, the rhyme references everyday life in Victorian London and has delighted generations of children.

Background:

The phrase “Pop goes the weasel” has been interpreted in many ways. One popular theory is that “weasel” is Cockney rhyming slang for “coat” (from “weasel and stoat”), and “pop” means to pawn. Thus, the rhyme may reference pawning one’s coat to make ends meet. The City Road and the Eagle Tavern mentioned in the lyrics are real locations in London. The rhyme’s catchy melody has made it a favorite for singing games and even a popular dance tune.

Did You Know?

This British version of this rhyme is closely related to the American “All Around The Mulberry Bush“.