Pike Hill Signal Tower, Hexham
Tower near Hexham
Pike Hill Signal Tower in Hexham, England, is a Roman archaeological site on high ground overlooking the surrounding countryside. It sits beside the Hadrian's Wall corridor and was once part of an early signalling network along the Stanegate road, making it a small but notable frontier monument.
Today, visitors can see only a short surviving section of stonework, but the position of the tower still makes its purpose easy to imagine. The open hillside, broad views, and roadside setting give the place a practical, atmospheric feel. It suits travellers interested in Roman Britain, frontier landscapes, or short stops between better-known sites, while casual visitors may find it too limited for a long visit.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of Pike Hill Signal Tower
- Things to See and Do in Pike Hill Signal Tower
- How to Get to Pike Hill Signal Tower
- Practical Tips on Visiting Pike Hill Signal Tower
- Where to Stay close to Pike Hill Signal Tower
- Add a Is Pike Hill Signal Tower Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting Pike Hill Signal Tower
History and Significance of Pike Hill Signal Tower
Pike Hill Signal Tower was originally constructed in the early second century as part of a series of watchtowers overlooking the Roman Stanegate road, the main east-west military route between the forts at Corbridge and Carlisle. These towers were positioned on high ground, allowing rapid signalling across the frontier using smoke, fire, or reflective devices. Their role was to warn forts of movement across the border and maintain coordination along this vital artery of Roman control.
As imperial frontiers shifted, the tower was later absorbed into the line of Hadrian’s Wall, reflecting how the Romans adapted and reinforced existing structures. Its placement between Turret 51B and Turret 52A and its proximity to Banna fort added strategic depth to the newly constructed frontier, connecting older systems with the monumental wall.
Excavations in 1931 provided valuable insight into the structure. Archaeologists found that the tower measured around 20 feet square and had deep foundations, suggesting an unusually tall structure that likely offered commanding views. Although the modern road destroyed much of the tower, the surviving block preserves an authentic piece of the Roman frontier landscape.
Things to See and Do in Pike Hill Signal Tower
The main feature to see at Pike Hill is the 2-metre-long stone fragment of the southeast wall, now standing just beside the road. While modest in size, it offers a rare chance to stand at the footprint of a frontier tower that predates Hadrian’s Wall and reflects the shifting phases of Roman defence.
Visitors also come for the views. The hillside offers sweeping panoramas over the surrounding countryside, helping you imagine why this site was chosen for early warning and observation. The sense of height and distance remains a compelling part of the experience.
Because the site is close to several other key Hadrian’s Wall features, many travellers build it into a wider walk. Pairing Pike Hill with nearby turrets or the fort at Birdoswald creates a satisfying loop through varied Roman remains.
How to Get to Pike Hill Signal Tower
The nearest major airport is Newcastle International Airport, which provides good access to the Hadrian’s Wall region. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hexham on Booking.com.
Those travelling by train can reach the area via Brampton (Cumbria) or Carlisle railway stations, both of which offer connections from Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Reaching the site by car is the most convenient option, as Pike Hill Signal Tower sits close to a modern road and rural walking routes. Parking is limited but nearby lay-bys make short visits practical.
Practical Tips on Visiting Pike Hill Signal Tower
- Suggested tips: Wear sturdy footwear, as paths may be uneven and the terrain can be muddy after rain.
- Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn offers clearer views and more comfortable walking conditions.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: Open at all times
- Official website: Not available
- How long to spend: Around 15-30 minutes, or longer if combined with a wider Hadrian’s Wall walk.
- Accessibility: The site is beside a road but involves uneven ground, making access challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Facilities: None on-site; services are available in nearby Brampton.
- Photography tip: Capture the stone fragment with the rolling hills as a backdrop to emphasise the tower’s strategic vantage.
- Guided tours: Some Hadrian’s Wall walking guides include the tower as part of longer itineraries.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and pubs in Brampton or at Birdoswald are the closest places for refreshments.
Where to Stay close to Pike Hill Signal Tower
Staying in or around Brampton provides easy access to Pike Hill and other Hadrian's Wall sites. A comfortable option is Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, offering a peaceful countryside setting. Another nearby choice is The Howard Arms, a welcoming inn close to local shops and dining.
Add a Is Pike Hill Signal Tower Worth Visiting?
Yes, Pike Hill Signal Tower is worth visiting, especially for fans of Roman history or walkers exploring Hadrian's Wall. While only a small fragment survives, the combination of archaeology, landscape, and frontier storytelling makes it a rewarding and atmospheric stop along the wall.
What Other Travellers Say...
Pike Hill Signal Tower - Hadrian's Wall, near Banks, Brampton CA8 2BX, is a quiet, small archaeological site offering outstanding countryside views and a chance to see part of the Roman defensive line incorporated into Hadrian's Wall; visitors note exposed wall fragments, a milecastle or milepost tower nearby, informative on-site signage, and that the spot is uncrowded and best appreciated by those interested in Roman/Britannic archaeology, with easy driving access from places like Edinburgh and nearby towns.
FAQs for Visiting Pike Hill Signal Tower
The Pike Hill Signal Tower appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hexham!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours.
£2 parking charge applies to non-members
Nearby Attractions
- Banks East Turret (0.2) km
Roman Site - Piper Sike Turret (1.3) km
Roman Site - Lanercost Priory (2.3) km
Ruins - Naworth Castle (2.7) km
Castle - Birdoswald Roman Fort (4.1) km
Historic Site - Hadrian's Wall (4.2) km
Historic Site - Leahill Turret (4.2) km
Roman Site - Thirlwall Castle (8.4) km
Castle - Roman Army Museum (9.1) km
Museum - Solway Aviation Museum (9.8) km
Museum
