In pictures: West Midlands scenic stepping stones that's a must-visit for residents despite its 'dark' history

These quirky stones located in Cannock Chase are usually marvelled by visitors from all over the West Midlands.

But did you know the ‘dark’ history behind the stones and where they lie inside Cannock Chase.

Read more: Cannock Chase Council grants retrospective approval for its own play area

The Sherbrook Valley Stepping Stones is the official name behind the stones which are located within Cannock Chase, Staffordshire.

The stones are a quirky feature as it connects visitors on their walking trails where they can hop across the Sherbrook.

Indeed, the stones are known for its official name, but they are also known as the ‘Hangmans stones’.

As the name suggests, the stones which were installed in 1954 (72 years ago) were originally sourced from a place where people, notably prisoners were once hung.

The stones were from the historic 'Hangman's Gate' at Stafford Prison, where prisoners were at one point ‘hung’ for lack of a better word.

The stones were put in its place by Friends of Cannock Chase - known today as an association of volunteers who preserve the area for public usage.

Many are all too familiar with Stafford Prison, and they were created using stones from the prison itself.

Now of course, the stepping stones are a quirky feature for those hopping across during long weekends and days-out.

Take a look below at these popular stepping stones and how people are enjoying them in 2026: