There is more than one path through Freemasonry.
Freemasonry includes a number of Orders and traditions, each with its own ceremonies, character and history. You don't need to understand them all — for most people, the journey simply begins with Craft Freemasonry.
One tradition.
Many experiences.
And no need to learn it all at once.
One of the things newcomers often don't realise is that Freemasonry is broader than a single organisation or ceremony.
Craft Freemasonry provides the foundation. From there, members may choose to explore other parts of the Masonic tradition, each offering different ceremonies, friendships and experiences.
Women also practise Freemasonry through their own established organisations.
None of this needs to be complicated. If you're simply curious about joining, your first step is having a conversation.
The Foundation
Where the journey begins.
For men joining a Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England, Craft Freemasonry is the starting point.
Members progress through three Degrees — Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason. The ceremonies use symbolism and allegory to explore character, responsibility and how we conduct ourselves through life.
Beyond the ceremonies, this is where friendships develop, members dine and socialise together, support good causes and become part of a wider community.
Chapter
Continuing the journey.
For many Master Masons, the Royal Arch — often simply called Chapter — becomes the next part of their Masonic journey.
It builds upon themes encountered in Craft Freemasonry and offers a further ceremony, traditions and perspectives for members who wish to continue their exploration.
Royal Arch members are known as Companions and meet in Chapters rather than Lodges. Friendship and fellowship remain central to the experience.
Masonry
A different perspective.
Mark Master Masonry is another established part of the wider Masonic family and is open to Master Masons.
Its name comes from the distinctive marks historically used by individual stonemasons to identify their work — examples of which can still be found in historic buildings and cathedrals.
Its ceremonies develop their own themes and lessons while retaining the friendship, symbolism and sense of tradition familiar within Freemasonry.
Freemasonry
Freemasonry isn't exclusively male.
Women have practised Freemasonry in Britain for well over a century through established women's Masonic organisations.
Their Freemasonry shares many familiar characteristics with men's Freemasonry — ceremony, symbolism, friendship, personal development, charitable activity and service to others.
Two principal organisations for women in Britain are the Order of Women Freemasons and Freemasonry for Women, also known as HFAF.
You don't need to choose an Order.
In fact, you don't need to understand any of this before you make contact. Your journey begins with a conversation.
If you later decide to become a Freemason, you'll learn about the wider Masonic family naturally as you go along.
Some members become involved in several Orders. Others are perfectly content concentrating on their Craft Lodge. There is no requirement to do everything.
One building.
Many Masonic traditions.
Westbourne House is home to a varied Masonic community. Different Lodges, Chapters and Masonic Orders use the building throughout the year, each maintaining its own traditions while sharing the same home.
That variety is one of the strengths of the Masonic community here. Members meet people from other Lodges and Orders, visit one another and share social occasions and friendships beyond their own meetings.
Your journey begins with a conversation.
You don't need to understand Lodges, Chapters, Degrees or Orders before getting in touch. Come to Westbourne House, meet some Freemasons and ask whatever you would like to know.
Start a Conversation →No pressure. No obligation. Just a conversation.