Games from Wales: Fun Ways Kids Used to Play

Welsh children love to play, sing, and laugh—just like kids all around the world! Over the years, many traditional games and songs have been passed down from one generation to the next. Some are popular throughout the United Kingdom, while others are uniquely Welsh. Let’s explore a few fun games and rhymes that kids in Wales enjoy!

Oranges and Lemons

One of the most famous games played in Wales is called “Oranges and Lemons.” It’s a fun combination of a song and a movement game. Here’s how it works:

Two children form an arch with their hands, like a doorway. The rest of the children walk under the arch while singing this traditional rhyme:

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.
When will that be?
Say the bells of Stepney.
I do not know,
Says the great bell of Bow.
Here comes a candle to light you to bed,
And here comes a chopper to chop off your head!

When the last line is sung, the arch comes down and traps the child who happens to be underneath. That child is “caught” and steps out of the line. The last one left wins the game!

Conkers

Another classic game is called “Conkers.” This game uses hazelnuts or horse chestnuts. Each player threads a string through a nut (called a conker) and takes turns hitting the opponent’s conker. The goal is to break your opponent’s conker without breaking your own. If your conker survives, you win! Kids often have fun naming their conkers and giving them winning streaks.

Singing and Skipping Rhymes

Since music is a big part of Welsh culture, many children’s games involve singing. Rhymes like “Inkie Pinkie Parlez Vous” are sung just for fun or while playing clapping games. When skipping rope, children often sing cheerful songs like “Bobby Shaftoe” and “Mabel Mabel.” These songs help kids keep rhythm and make playtime more exciting.

Learning Welsh Through Play

Games and songs are not only fun—they’re also a great way to learn a new language! With Dinolingo, children can learn Welsh through interactive games, videos, stories, and songs. The platform makes language learning feel like play, offering tools for every age from toddler to teen. Parents also love the offline printables, gamified rewards, and easy-to-use dashboard.

Let’s Keep Playing!

Welsh children’s games are full of music, movement, and imagination. Whether it’s walking under an arch, cracking conkers, or skipping rope with a rhyme, these games bring children together and keep traditions alive. Best of all, they show us that learning and laughter can go hand in hand.