Cuningar Loop, the urban woodland park in the heart of Glasgow has proved a real boon to local residents looking for lockdown exercise.

Ideally situated for residents of Parkhead, Bridgeton and Rutherglen, the park has had a positive impact on the local area in the four years it has been open – but has proved its worth in the COVID-19 health crisis.

Paige Klinkman, area Visitor Services Manager for Forestry and Land Scotland, which looks after Cuningar Loop, said;

“Cuningar was developed for the local community and is a significant asset to the local area – it provides green and wild space in an area that was previously neglected, and makes a positive contribution to the regeneration of the local area.  

“About half of the people who would use the park live within 2 miles, so it has been the perfect location for people to enjoy some exercise while following the current guidance on staying safe and keeping physically distant.

“Some of the facilities at the park – such as the bouldering area and the play area – are currently still closed but there are still many people visiting for a walk - particularly dog walkers and families with children, many of whom visit more than once a week.

“It’s a great resource during lockdown – a little oasis of almost normal - and has played its part in helping people look after their physical and mental health and wellbeing.”

A survey carried out earlier in the year highlighted that although the park is already seen as a valuable recreational and economic benefit to the area, more could be done to make it more visible to a wider audience.

Paige added;

“As we emerge out of lockdown and our staff start returning to work, one of the things we’ll be looking at is how to make Cuningar Loop even more accessible.

“It’s a fantastic site for a day out for people of all ages.

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.

2. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 0131 370 5059 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

4. Cuningar Loop is an Urban Woodland Park, on the banks of the River Clyde that first opened to visitors in 2016. It provides a range of features including adventure play, bike pump track, bouldering zone, boardwalk and events area. It is located in an area of previously derelict wild land, on a distinctive bend on the Clyde in the East End of Glasgow.