We are a unique members’ organisation which has thrived for over 300 years. Having no political or religious affiliations, we comprise members of all ages, races, religions, cultures and backgrounds. We meet in our individual Lodges throughout the country where we have ceremonial traditions which encourage us both to be more tolerant and respectful and actively to fulfil our civic and charitable responsibilities; we also make time to eat, drink and meet together, and form lifelong friendships.
To attract those from all backgrounds and walks of life, enabling them to develop into more thoughtful and confident people. To inspire and challenge them to practise the core values we celebrate – Integrity, Friendship, Respect, Service – in their private and public lives. To cement our reputation as a force for good in our communities and society at large and as a thriving organisation that people aspire to join.
INTEGRITY: Rather than working on buildings like the masons of old, today’s Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal.
FRIENDSHIP: One of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology. It is open to people from all religions and political persuasions, and provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.
RESPECT: With a membership of more than 150,000 people drawn from communities across the UK, Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society.
SERVICE: Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.
Our members have come from all walks of life and each with their own unique story to tell for why they became a Freemason.
Becoming a Freemason means you’ll be joining approximately 180,000 members throughout England and Wales, as well as Districts overseas.
Membership is open to any man over the age of 18 irrespective of their race or religion. In total, we have more than 7,000 Lodges, with students able to join one of 87 University Scheme Lodges.
Freemasons meet all across London, in Masonic halls, hotels, livery halls and other venues. Most Lodges meet four to eight times a year, usually in the late afternoon and early evening (some on Saturdays) and will usually include a dinner after the meeting.
It is important to identify whether a Lodge’s location and meeting days/times are convenient for you, so that you can commit to a regular attendance without damaging your family or work commitments. You should also be able to bear the financial commitment (subscriptions, an expectation of contributions to charitable funds, dining fees, regalia etc).
Above all, no one should undertake membership which may adversely affect his family, employment or other non-Masonic commitments.
We have a number of Lodges which focus on being able to provide a great masonic experience for students over the age of 18. Such Lodges have members from diverse backgrounds and aim to be welcoming to all students. Please visit www.universitiesscheme.com for more information.
Women are invited to join one of two female-only Grand Lodges: The Order of Women Freemasons https://www.owf.org.uk and Freemasonry for Women https://hfaf.org
People join Freemasonry for many different reasons, some join for the friendships they will make; friendships that last a lifetime and encompass the key milestones in life for better or worse. You will meet people who are different to you, those of different ages with radically different life experiences and interests, drawn together by common experience through Freemasonry.
Our members are, and have been for three centuries, drawn from all walks of life. From Captains of industry and chief executives to manual labourers and forklift truck drivers, so you will find people with a wealth of different outlooks from all races, religions, classes and backgrounds.
There are also those who enjoy the ceremonial aspects. Our meetings consist of centuries old lessons centred around you as an individual. How you live your life, the decisions that you make and how to become a better person are all found within our meetings.
Freemasons are taught to look after those less fortunate than themselves, charity is our lifeblood and many members devote their time and energy to helping those less fortunate than themselves. We also have a huge amount of fun along the way, we eat, drink and meet together and form lifelong friendships.
