Granny Kempock Stone, Grey mica schist menhir in Gourock, Scotland
Granny Kempock Stone is an upright menhir made of grey mica schist that stands on a cliff face overlooking Kempock Street and the River Clyde below. The monument rises several meters high and can be reached by a stairway that connects directly from street level.
The stone originates from the Bronze Age and represents one of the earliest structures at this location. Reverend MacRae documented its existence in his 1880 publication about Gourock, helping establish its historical record.
The stone held deep meaning for the seafaring community, who believed circling it would bring safety during ocean voyages. Local people regarded it as a place of protection and blessing for those who depended on the sea for their livelihood.
The site is best visited during daylight hours when the cliff and river views are clear and safe. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the stairway can be steep and the ground around the stone is uneven.
The surface of the stone bears many scratches and initials from the 17th to 19th centuries left by visitors over time. Some of these carvings resemble navigation markers, showing how seafarers marked the stone across generations.
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