Cuningar Loop Woodland Park
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant community woodland with adventure play, outdoor bouldering, scenic trails, and striking public art on the River Clyde.
Cuningar Loop is a vibrant woodland park on the banks of the River Clyde in Rutherglen, Glasgow. It offers over three miles of accessible paths, Scotland’s first outdoor bouldering park, adventure play areas, and bike tracks for all ages and abilities. Visitors can enjoy striking sculptures, peaceful riverside walks, and family-friendly activities in a transformed community woodland.
A brief summary to Cuningar Loop
- Glasgow, Rutherglen, G73 1PW, GB
- +443000676700
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring suitable footwear for mixed-surface trails to comfortably explore the woodland paths and riverside boardwalk.
- Try the outdoor bouldering park—fall protection mats are recommended for some higher rocks.
- Visit during school holidays to experience special events like the 'Lost Kingdom' dinosaur adventure.
- Use public transport via Dalmarnock or Rutherglen train stations for easy access, followed by a 10-minute walk.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to either Dalmarnock or Rutherglen station, both about a 10-minute walk from Cuningar Loop. Trains run frequently from Glasgow Central, with journey times around 10-15 minutes. Walking paths from the stations are accessible and well signposted.
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Bus
Use local bus services running along Dalmarnock Road connecting Glasgow city center and Rutherglen. Buses operate regularly with journey times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Alight at stops near Downiebrae Road and enjoy a short walk to the park entrance.
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Car
Drive to Cuningar Loop using main roads; on-site parking is available but managed by Clyde Gateway with charges applying. Parking spaces are ample but can fill on weekends and during events. Nearby on-street parking is also available but may have restrictions.
Cuningar Loop location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Cuningar Loop
A Transformative Urban Woodland Escape
Cuningar Loop is a remarkable example of urban regeneration, transforming a former landfill site into a thriving community woodland park along the River Clyde in Rutherglen, Glasgow. The park’s landscape blends natural beauty with recreational facilities, creating a green oasis within the city. Visitors can stroll along the riverside boardwalk or explore forest trails that wind through a mix of native trees and open meadows, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.Outdoor Adventure and Active Play
The park is renowned for Scotland’s first outdoor bouldering area, designed to welcome climbers of all skill levels. The bouldering rocks range in height, with some over four meters tall, and include features for para-climbing, encouraging inclusive participation. Adjacent to this is a vibrant adventure play area featuring climbing equipment, slides, and a sandpit, ideal for children and families seeking active fun. Additionally, Cuningar Loop offers three bike tracks—balance bike, pump, and skill-building trails—catering to cyclists from beginners to more experienced riders.Artistic Highlights and Cultural Significance
The park is enriched by public art installations, including the impressive six-meter-high steel sculpture "Evolve" by Glasgow artist Rob Mulholland, symbolizing the site's transformation. Scattered throughout the woodland are the Cuningar Stones, a permanent collection of 15 sculpted stones by James Winnett that reflect the local history and cultural heritage. These artworks provide a unique cultural dimension, inviting visitors to engage with the park’s story and environment in a meaningful way.Accessibility and Facilities for Visitors
Cuningar Loop is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring over three miles of mixed-surface paths suitable for walkers, cyclists, and wheelchair users. There are numerous seating areas and picnic spots, making it a welcoming destination for all ages. Clean restrooms and a bothy offering food and drink options enhance visitor comfort. The park is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, with plentiful parking managed by Clyde Gateway and convenient public transport links via nearby bus routes and train stations at Dalmarnock and Rutherglen, each about a 10-minute walk away.Seasonal Events and Community Engagement
Beyond its everyday attractions, Cuningar Loop hosts special events such as the popular "Lost Kingdom" dinosaur-themed experience, which offers immersive family entertainment during school holidays. The park also encourages outdoor exercise with installations for fitness in a natural setting. Its role as a community hub continues to grow, fostering environmental awareness and outdoor recreation for Glasgow’s East End and beyond.Natural Environment and Wildlife Habitat
The woodland park supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to local biodiversity. The mix of conifer and broadleaf trees provides habitat for birds and small mammals, while the riverside location adds to the ecological richness. Visitors can enjoy peaceful wildlife watching opportunities amidst the scenic landscapes, making Cuningar Loop a valued green space for both nature lovers and urban dwellers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
2.5 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Buffalo Bill Statue
2.6 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
2.9 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
3.1 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Bridge of Sighs
3.3 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Tolbooth Steeple
3.3 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
The Glenlee Propellers
3.4 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
3.4 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
The Gatekeeper
3.5 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Hampden Park
3.6 km
The world's oldest international football stadium, where Scottish football history was written and the modern game took shape.
Ramshorn Graveyard
3.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ramshorn Graveyard, a hidden gem in the heart of Glasgow, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Old Police Post
3.7 km
A historic blue police box marking Glasgow's pioneering role in British law enforcement and urban policing innovation.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
3.8 km
Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
Tobacco Merchant's House
3.8 km
Explore the Tobacco Merchant's House, a historic site in Glasgow that reveals the fascinating story of the tobacco trade and its impact on the city's heritage.
Glasgow City Chambers
3.9 km
A grand Victorian town hall in the heart of Glasgow, where civic power meets opulent architecture and free guided tours reveal the city’s proud history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Celtic Park
1.2 km
Experience the passion and heritage of Celtic Football Club at Glasgow’s iconic Celtic Park, one of Europe’s largest football stadiums.
Tollcross Park
1.4 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Tollcross Park with its stunning rose garden, restored Winter Gardens, and a charming animal farm for all ages.
Glasgow Women's Library
2.0 km
Scotland's pioneering library celebrating women's histories, archives, and voices through collections, events, and community.
Glasgow Green
2.5 km
Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest park, blends rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant events across expansive green spaces by the River Clyde.
Doulton Fountain
2.6 km
The world’s largest terracotta fountain, a Victorian masterpiece celebrating Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and Glasgow’s imperial heritage.
People's Palace
2.7 km
Explore Glasgow’s rich social history and relax amidst tropical plants in the iconic People's Palace and Winter Gardens.
Barrowland Ballroom
2.9 km
Glasgow’s legendary live music venue with iconic neon sign, superb acoustics, and a storied history as a dance hall turned concert landmark.
Barras Market
2.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Barras Market, a lively weekend bazaar famed for antiques, street food, and authentic local culture every Saturday and Sunday.
Wellpark Brewery
2.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s oldest brewery where centuries of tradition meet the birthplace of Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager.
Southern Necropolis
3.0 km
Explore Glasgow’s Southern Necropolis, a historic Victorian cemetery rich in working-class heritage, evocative monuments, and intriguing local legends.
Drygate Brewing Co.
3.1 km
Glasgow’s pioneering experiential brewery with craft beers, fearless food, panoramic brewhouse views, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Barrowland Park
3.2 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
St Andrew's in the Square
3.2 km
An exquisite 18th-century classical church turned vibrant cultural centre celebrating Scotland’s music, history, and heritage in Glasgow’s historic East End.
The Glasgow Necropolis
3.2 km
Explore the haunting beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a historical cemetery with stunning architecture and breathtaking city views.
McLennan Arch
3.3 km
Historic sandstone archway marking the grand entrance to Glasgow Green, a timeless symbol of Glasgow’s architectural heritage.
Essential places to dine
Bilsons Cafe Bistro
2.6 km
Experience innovative Scottish brunch and unique wine pairings in a charming Glasgow bistro known for fresh, seasonal dishes and warm hospitality.
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
2.8 km
Discover the fusion of delicious grill cuisine and live music at Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox in Glasgow – where every meal is an experience.
Celentano's
3.3 km
Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
Mono
3.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Cafe Gandolfi
3.5 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
3.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Bar Soba Merchant City
3.5 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Italian Kitchen
3.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Table Twenty Eight
3.5 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
The Dhabba
3.5 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
3.5 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
3.6 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
3.6 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Pavement
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant taste of Glasgow at Pavement Grill Restaurant – where exceptional flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kirkwood of Scotland
1.6 km
Elegant and comfortable British-made womenswear for mature women, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship in Glasgow’s Forge Shopping Centre.
Highland Tweed
2.0 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and traditional Scottish woollen garments crafted with heritage and care in Glasgow’s Rutherglen district.
Modern Love Store
2.8 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Never miss a gift
2.9 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Boots
3.3 km
Discover the best in beauty and health at Boots in Glasgow, your one-stop cosmetics shop for quality products and expert advice.
Shop local
3.3 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
3.4 km
Experience the best vaporiser shop in Glasgow at Bob's Bubbles, where quality meets expertise in a vibrant atmosphere.
Co-op Food - Glasgow - Crown Street
3.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Frida and Coco
3.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Studio South
3.4 km
Unwrap Glasgow's creative soul at Studio South, where local artisans craft gifts that capture the heart of Scotland's vibrant south side.
Minted
3.4 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
3.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Social Recluse
3.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Grab n Go convenience store
3.6 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Pride of Glasgow
3.7 km
Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pig 'n' Whistle
2.7 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
DnH Craft Cocktails
3.1 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
Strathduie Bar
3.4 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
3.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Home
3.5 km
Glasgow's go-to pub for live sports, craft cocktails, and hearty sharing plates in the vibrant Merchant City – where every visit feels like home turf.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
3.5 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Sharkeys Bar
3.5 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
Brazen Head
3.6 km
A lively Celtic and Irish pub in the Gorbals, famed for match nights, football memorabilia and live music in an intimate, unpretentious setting.
Bar 91
3.6 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
3.7 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Steps Bar
3.7 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
Bacchus Bar
3.8 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Speakeasy
3.8 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
3.8 km
Glasgow’s vibrant underground LGBTQ+ bar with live music, themed nights, and affordable drinks in the heart of Merchant City.
Cairns Bar
3.8 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
3.5 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
3.8 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
3.8 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
3.8 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
3.8 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
3.8 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
4.0 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Sub Club
4.1 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
4.1 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
4.2 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
4.3 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
4.3 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
4.3 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Kokomo Glasgow
4.4 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
4.4 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly