A signalling tower was built on Pike Hill during the Stanegate phase of fortifying the northern frontier of the Roman province of Britannia.

This followed the withdrawal of the Roman army from Scotland around 100 and was prior to the construction of Hadrian's Wall which started in 125.

[7] Archaeological investigations have shown that the tower was built prior to either the turf or stone walls that exist nearby.

[5] The signal tower was a square structure measuring around 6 metres (20 ft) on each side.

[7] The tower was built on a platform of mortared rubble and deep foundations have been found which indicate an upper structure of some extra height.