Throughout 300 years of heritage and history, our members have come from all walks of life and each with their own unique story to tell for why they became a Freemason.
As one of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world, we have a thriving community of approximately 175,000 members throughout England and Wales, as well as Districts overseas. Freemasons use four key values to help define their path through life: Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service.
Membership is open to people from all backgrounds and our aim is to empower members to be the best they can be.
Here’s just a few reasons to become a Freemason:
You want to make new friendships
From the Universities Scheme and New and Young Masons Clubs, to special interest Lodges, Freemasonry gives members many opportunities to make a wide circle of friends for life. Finding bonds with people who share common interests and meeting people from all different backgrounds are just some of the ways Freemasonry can help cultivate lasting friendships.
You want to develop yourself
Freemasonry is all about building character and supporting members as individuals. It’s these foundations that allow members to develop themselves, from increased self-confidence to transferable skills such as public speaking.
You want to make a positive contribution to society
Whether taking part in social events or fundraising, charity is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions to deserving causes and it’s because of this we’re recognised as one of the largest charitable givers in the country, contributing £51.1m to deserving causes in 2020.
Join us
Usually you would know someone who is a member and they will suggest that you might wish to consider it. Alternatively if you have a friend who is a member you can simply ask them. There are no hard and fast rules but the concept that if you ask then no-one will recommend you to join is a myth!
Inevitably there will be many men who are interested but don’t necessarily have a friend who is already a member, in this case you can contact us, we will get in touch and discuss what you are expecting and what may be required of you, and then how to proceed.
We will arrange to meet you or invite you to one of our social functions if we have one at the time and this will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Assuming you wish to go ahead then a suitable date for your initiation will be determined.
At no time will we attempt to persuade you to join, it will be up to you to decide in your own time.
The best way to learn about Freemasonry prior to joining is to speak to a Freemason.
Contact us with your name and a telephone number and our Membership Officer will be happy to call you and answer any questions you may have.