Becoming a Freemason

Becoming a Freemason means you’ll be joining more than 200,000 members throughout England and Wales, as well as Districts overseas.

Membership is open to any man over the age of 21 irrespective of their race or religion. In total, we have more than 7,000 Lodges, with students over 18 able to join one of the 85 University Scheme Lodges. Women are invited to join one of two female-only Grand Lodges: The Order of Women Freemasons and the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.

What happens at a Lodge meeting?

Lodge meetings are typically held in two parts. The first involves more administrative procedures, such as proposing and balloting for new members and receiving news about charitable fundraising. The second part focuses on ceremonies, which might relate to areas such as the admittance of new members or the installation of the Master of the Lodge and his officers – a process made up of three degrees, or stages, each one marked by a special ceremony.

True to the sense of friendship and togetherness among Freemasons, meetings are also social events, providing an occasion for members to dine together. Outside of the Lodge, activities include community fundraising and volunteering activities, as well as a varied programme of events where spouses, partners and families are welcome.

How do I join?

If you don’t know anyone who is a member and that you can talk to, then your first step is to approach your local lodge or one which shares your interests which include sports, motoring and young member Lodges, or check out our Get in Touch page and we’ll get back to you..