Freemasonry is one of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world. Its roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles.

Organised freemasonry is over three hundred years old and began when, on 24 June 1717, freemasons from four London lodges met to form the world’s first Grand Lodge. The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) is the governing body for freemasonry in England and Wales and is headquartered in Freemasons’ Hall, London.

Freemasons use four important guiding principles to help define their path through life: Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Charity.

Membership is open to people from all backgrounds and the organisation’s aim is to empower members to be the best they can be – it’s about building character, supporting members as individuals and helping them make a positive contribution to society.

Freemasonry is also one of the largest charitable givers in the country, contributing over £48 million to deserving causes in 2018 alone. Freemasons don’t only donate money, with over five million hours of volunteer work undertaken by freemasons in 2018.

Watch this video from UGLE to find out more about freemasonry and what it means to be a freemason: