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Bewcastle Cross
Travel Information and nearby accommodation
The Bewcastle Cross is a superbly carved late 7th or early 8th century cross shaft, standing in the churchyard of a remote Cumbrian hamlet. The beautifully crafted decoration on the cross is probably the finest example of pre-Norman carving in England, and bears comparison to the superb Ruthwell Cross, across the border in Dumfries and Galloway.
It is not known exactly when the Bewcastle Cross was crafted, but a date shortly after 675 AD has been suggested. At this time masons were brought in from abroad to work on the new monastery at Monkwearmouth, and it is possible that these foreign craftsmen worked on the Bewcastle Cross, which shows siilarity of style to similar carvings in Europe and the Middle East.
Aside from the decorative carvings there are inscriptions around the lower section of the cross. Unfortunately these inscriptions are much worn, and it is not certain how to translate them. It may be that they commemorate King Alchfrith of Deira, though that is not certain.
The main carvings are all on the same side of the cross, and they show three Biblical figures; John the Baptist, Christ, and a figure which may be St John the Evangelist. I say 'may be', as the style of the third figure is very unusual, and it may be intended to represent a Saxon nobleman. If so, it would be one of the very first likenesses of a secular person in England. There is a hole by St John's arm, and this may have been used to hold a religious relic, such as a fragment of the true cross.
The other three sides of the cross are covered with magnificent Celtic style geometric patterns and interlacing plants. The overall effect of the carvings is simply stunning, and the Bewcastle Cross deserves recognition as a national treasure; a real gem of our pre-Norman heritage.
Near the church are the ruins of a medieval castle, made in part using Roman stones from Hadrian's Wall, which runs nearby.
Bewcastle,
Cumbria,
England
About Bewcastle Cross
Attraction Type: Historic Property - Monument
Location: Outside Bewcastle parish church. Parking available outside the church.
Location
map
Bewcastle Cross Photos
OS NY565745
Heritage Rating:  ?
Photos of Bewcastle Cross
Cross carvings |
Cross shaft view |
Carving detail 2 |
See all Bewcastle Cross Photos
Nearest Accommodation to Bewcastle Cross
Nearest Self Catering Cottages |
 Rigg Foot -
3.3
miles from Bewcastle Cross
Bewcastle, Cumbria
Sleeps: 4
Stay from: £130 |
 Meadow View -
6.3
miles from Bewcastle Cross
Hethersgill, Cumbria
Sleeps: 8
Stay from: £340 |
 Brook Cottage -
6.3
miles from Bewcastle Cross
Hethersgill, Cumbria
Sleeps: 4
Stay from: £180 |
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Nearest Tourist
Information Centre
Brampton
Tourist Information Centre
Moot Hall
Market Place
Brampton
Cumbria
England
CA8 1RW
Tel: 016977 3433
Fax: 016977 3433
Email: ElisabethB@CarlisleCity.gov.uk
Seasonal opening
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