This walk is much flatter and easier than across the road in Satnall Hills, with a circular route leading directly from the car park to the stepping stones, where you can cross and return on the other side of Sher Brook. Of course, you can also explore more of Cannock Chase if you want a longer wander.

The steps were installed in 1954, when Twelve one-hundred-weight (45kg) coping stones were taken from Stafford Prison when it was demolished. Originally they were called ‘Hangman’s stones’ because the stones formed the steps to the gatehouse where the condemned prisoners were hanged on the flat roof.

Cannock Chase is one of the smallest National Landscapes (formerly AONBs) and because of the proximity of large conurbations and rich mineral reserves is also one of the most threatened. ‘The Chase’ was once a medieval royal hunting forest and despite its proximity to areas of high density population it remains surprisingly remote.

To visit, park near the top of Punchbowl Car Park (52°47’03.0″N 2°01’32.0″W) and take the path down from there.