Ride a Cock-Horse
Quick Answer
A short nursery rhyme about riding “a cock-horse” to Banbury Cross, meeting a fine lady, and enjoying a sweet little moment of pageantry. Simple, musical, and made for repetition.
Why This Story Works for Bedtime
Very brief and bouncy. With a slower, gentle cadence, it becomes a soothing end-of-day rhyme that young children can echo.
Story at a Glance
RECOMMENDED AGES
2-6 years
READING TIME
1 min
Story Synopsis
“Ride a Cock-Horse” is a traditional nursery rhyme that feels like a tiny parade. In just a few lines, it takes you on an imaginary ride to Banbury Cross and introduces a “fine lady” with rings and lace. There isn’t a plot to follow—its comfort comes from rhythm, familiar names, and the playful picture it paints. At bedtime, it works best as a quick, calming ‘one more’ after a longer story. You can say it softly while rocking or swaying, letting your child enjoy the gentle imagery and the sing-song sound.
Story Excerpt
Ride a cock-horse To Banbury Cross, To see what Tommy can buy; A penny white loaf, A penny white cake, And a twopenny apple-pie.
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In One Glance
“Ride a Cock-Horse” is a short nursery rhyme about an imaginary ride to Banbury Cross and a fine lady dressed in rings and lace. It’s rhythmic and picture-based rather than plot-driven. Because it’s brief and repetitive, it works well as a soothing bedtime rhyme for young children.
Frequently Asked Questions
A short rhyme about riding to Banbury Cross and seeing a ‘fine lady’ in fancy clothes.
No—it's gentle and playful.
Ages 1–6.
Say it slowly while rocking—turn the ‘ride’ into a calm, sleepy sway.