caring society
with Integrity
for Friendship
with Respect
impact through
dedicated Service
caring society
with Integrity
caring society
with Integrity
caring society
with Integrity
The home of Freemasonry
Welcome to the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), the home of Freemasonry in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and a number of Districts overseas.
One of the oldest secular social and charitable organisations in the world, modern Freemasonry’s roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our castles and cathedrals.
For Freemasons, there are four important values that help define their path through life: Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service. In today’s world filled with uncertainty, these principles ring as true now as they have at any point in the organisation’s history.
Membership is open to men over 18 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 provides a structure for members to come together under these common goals, enabling people to make new friendships, develop themselves and make valuable contributions to charitable causes. We are one of the largest contributors to charitable causes in the country, with a noteworthy almost £1 million donated per week
WHAT WE ARE
We are a unique members’ organisation that 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.
WHAT WE AIM FOR
We are a unique members’ organisation that 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.
WHAT WE AIM FOR
We are a unique members’ organisation that 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.
Our Values
Our core values are the underlying principles behind who we are, what we stand for, and what we do. They are vital to understanding Freemasonry.Â
INTEGRITY
Honesty, trustworthiness, honour, reliability, and conscientiousness form the foundation of a virtuous character. They foster trust, maintain integrity, and demonstrate commitment, ultimately leading to a life of strong principles and dependable actions.
FRIENDSHIP
Freemasonry gives members many opportunities to make a wide circle of friends for life who share common interests and values. It provides a bond of friendship and a sense of belonging. This promotes a feeling of enjoyment and fulfilment.
RESPECT
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has respected the beliefs of its members. It promotes an environment where diversity is valued. It is a space where different beliefs and backgrounds converge, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity, tolerance and harmony.
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.
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OUR HISTORY & ACHIEVEMENTS
Barely a decade after the foundation of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717, Freemasonry had become the largest and arguably the most influential of Britain’s many clubs and societies. This continued into the 20th century. A key factor was the widespread promulgation of the 1723 Constitutions of the Freemasons, which pioneered the cutting-edge principles of the Enlightenment:
- Religious tolerance, something wholly radical in a world characterised by religious conflict;
- Meritocracy, at a time when birth and wealth determined success;
- High standards of interpersonal civility;Â
- Scientific and artistic education;
- Societal and personal self-improvement.
An organisation for all cultures and backgrounds
Our members have come from all walks of life and each with their own unique story to tell for why they became a Freemason.
One of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world
Freemasonry’s roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our cathedrals and castles. Let us take you on a journey back in time.
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What is a Lodge and Its Officers?
Learn what a Masonic Lodge is, its traditions, and the values that unite Freemasons. Discover the ceremonies, roles, and impact of Freemasonry in today’s world.
The latest from Freemasonry
Keep up to date on all the latest news, read about our support for communities, and discover more about Freemasonry.
"I joined through a desire to widen my circle of friends and help charities. I’m currently working my way through the offices in my Lodge and as an active member of the Provincial membership team, hoping to share my experience to help those expressing an interest to make the right decisions around Freemasonry."
