What is Freemasonry?
One of the world's oldest social and charitable organisations, explained in plain English.
In a nutshell
Freemasonry brings together men from every background to enjoy friendship, support charity and try to be better people. Members meet in local groups called lodges. Each lodge holds a few meetings a year, usually followed by dinner together.
Why stonemasons?
Freemasonry grew out of the guilds of medieval stonemasons. Today its ceremonies use the stonemason’s tools, such as the square and compasses, as a way of thinking about how to live well: acting fairly, keeping promises and helping others.
Our values
Integrity, friendship, respect and charity. Freemasonry is not a religion and does not replace one; members of all faiths are welcome. Discussion of religion and politics is not allowed at lodge meetings.
How it is organised
In England and Wales, lodges come under the United Grand Lodge of England. London’s lodges, including ours, are looked after by the Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London.
Women and Freemasonry
Women can also be Freemasons, through the Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons. They are separate organisations that work with UGLE on friendly terms.