Rey Cross

The Rey Cross (also known as Rere Cross), is a pre-Norman boundary stone, with the name being derived from the Old Norse word 'hreyyr' meaning "boundary cairn". It was erected circa 950 AD to mark the border between English Northumbria and the Scottish Kingdom of Strathclyde.

In the 13th century it stood on the boundary of the dioceses of Carlisle and Glasgow and, until recently, marked the border between the old counties of Westmorland and the North Riding of Yorkshire.

Only the top section of the cross and its base remain. It would originally have been three metres high with a wheel-head top and carvings on the sides. Time and the elements have reduced the cross to what you see today.

Local legend claims that the cross was erected over the burial place of Erik Bloodaxe, the last Viking ruler of York. Erik was killed near here in 954 AD by Osulf, Earl of Bamburg, at the battle of Stainmore. Archaeological excavations below the cross in the 1990's found no evidence of a grave and his actual burial place remains a mystery.

It is believed he may be buried somewhere nearby on the Stainmore moors. The Rey Cross used to stand west of its present site in the Roman marching camp. It was removed during a road widening scheme and re-sited in this lay-by in 1992.

Thanks to our Fabulous North friend Rachel Hagar for this ace write up.