Dunoon Forward 4+

Updated for summer 2023

Dunoon Forward is your on-the-move heritage guide to the Dunoon area.


Featuring over 50 locations, 5 trails and a host of family friendly activities, Dunoon Forward helps you explore this stunning area through active travel.

Made in Dunoon
Dunoon Forward had been developed in collaboration with local people and organisations, who have co-created content and shared fascinating insights into the social and cultural history of place.

You can follow trails or simply use Dunoon Forward as a digital guide to the heritage of Dunoon, Kirn, Bullwood, Hunter’s Quay and Sandbank.

Look and Learn
Dunoon Forward is packed full of images and information about historic features ranging from monuments and buildings to more hidden local sites.

Learn about Dunoon Castle and story behind the striking Castle House.
Read the shocking story of the bloody Dunoon Massacre.
Discover our lost coastal Lidos, the history of local piers and the complex history of Puffin rock.
Find out about the boat builders of Sandbank and the community’s many
connections to the sea, including some of the rich history of war time operations on Holy Loch and the American Years.

And much, much more.

Walk, wheel or cycle
5 curated trails take you on different journeys through the town, around the coast and up into the hills and forests. Trails have been designed for different levels of mobility and lengths of time, so you can choose the trail that suits your needs.

The Dunoon Forward guide has been supported by Transport Scotland, Paths for All and Argyll and Bute Council to encourage active travel and healthy living for all.

Fun for all
Eye Spy games and suggested activities create a fun way of exploring Dunoon and the coastal communities of Bullwood, Kirn and Hunter’s Quay.

Enjoy being here
Dunoon Forward also provides you with handy local information, such as free WiFi spots, the location of bike stands and public amenities.

We have also included information about local heritage focused organisations, so you can explore Cowal’s rich cultural heritage further.

Come prepared
Trails included in Dunoon Forward cover different routes, ranging in length, challenge, and accessibility.

Access guidance:

1.Easy Access for all: accessible to walkers, cyclists and for people with conventional wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Recommended: Comfortable shoes or trainers.

2.Easy – suitable to anyone who does not have a mobility challenge or any specific health problem that effects their fitness. Suitable for pushchairs, if they can be lifted over occasional obstructions.

Recommended: Comfortable shoes or trainers.

3.Leisurely - walk and cycle for reasonably fit people with some walking and cycling experience. May include unsurfaced rural paths and steep inclines.

Recommended: Comfortable walking shoes or boots for walkers. Off road tyres recommended for cyclists. Take water with you!