About The Masonic Journey of England
The Masonic Journey of England (TMJE) is the governing body of Freemasonry in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and Districts overseas.
The Premier Grand Lodge, which became the United Grand Lodge of England, was founded at the Goose and Gridiron Pub in London in 1717.
UGLE is the governing body for a membership organisation of 170,000 people meeting in more than 7,000 Lodges across the globe. Membership is open to any man over the age of 18 irrespective of their background, race or religion, with students also able to join one of 87 Universities Scheme Lodges.
Our headquarters are at Freemasons’ Hall, a stunning Grade II* listed Art Deco building that proudly stands on Great Queen Street in Covent Garden, London.
It’s an exciting time for UGLE – great strides have been taken to modernise the organisation to become more transparent and better understood by the outside world, as we continue our journey with confidence into the 21st century.
Photography: Kenji Kudo
How are we organised?
Lodges are grouped into 48 Provinces by region, which are roughly based on the old county boundaries, across England, Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. We also have 32 Districts and four Groups of Lodges that are located overseas.
Our role is to provide structure, guidance and support to our members, while managing the administration of a centuries-old organisation. Freemasons use four important guiding principles to help define their path through life: Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service.
How do we operate?
UGLE holds four business meetings a year, known as Quarterly Communication.
TMJE, its Lodges and members operates to a rule book, known as The Book of Constitutions, which was first published in 1723. UGLE also publishes directories of office bearers, committees and Lodges, which are all available at the Shop at Freemasons’ Hall.
"I had been looking for a social group with a difference, something that appealed to my love of tradition and history, which would bring me into contact with a variety of new and interesting people. Freemasonry was one of the first places that came to mind and having spoken to a good friend who was a member, I took the plunge."
"I became a Freemason because I was looking for a way to make a difference in a more large-scale way than my profession allows me to do. I have found that my very best friends are all fellow Freemasons and I simply cannot imagine what life would be like without Freemasonry. It has become a major part of my life and I would not have it any other way."
"Freemasonry for me is a much bigger and deeper part of my life than I ever thought possible. I initially joined because I wanted the camaraderie, but found much more than that. I found that it made me, and continues to make me, a better man. It helps me understand myself, it has improved my confidence and it’s given me countless opportunities to give to charity."
"I joined Freemasonry because of the traditions, ethics, family connection and enjoyment. I enjoy Freemasonry because you’re made to feel welcome by people when you visit a new Lodge – plus the friendships last forever, no matter where you are in the world. "
