The Bewcastle Cross is an outstanding late 7th/early 8th century Anglo-Saxon cross standing 14 feet high. The cross head is missing, but the shaft is in a fairly good state of preservation and is inscribed with 6 runic panels.

St. Cuthbert’s Church and the Bewcastle Cross

We were asked to scan the lower runic panels (number II, IV and VI) by Cumbria County Council in an attempt to aid deciphering what runes were inscribed there. However, we eventually scanned all of the cross panels to a height of around 7′. This was done in situ during daylight hours.

Runic Panel II

Runic Panel IV

Runic Panel IV

Related Links

• Cumbria County Council
• Visit Cumbria — Ancient Crosses in Cumbria