The carol exists in a wide variety of versions, and even with differing numbers of verses. The lyrics given in this version are the most commonly used today, taken from Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern, by William Sandys, published in 1833. The tune originally published in 1833 is different from the one commonly used today. The original chorus words are also different. This version uses the melody and chorus words that are more common today.

The authors of the words and melody are unkown.