People might think that to become a Freemason is quite difficult.

It’s actually straightforward.

You do not have to wait to be invited.

The essential qualification for admission is that you have a belief in a Supreme Being. All religions are welcome and respected.

It is usual for candidates to be “mature men of 21 years and over”, but in some circumstances candidates between the ages of 18 and 21 can be admitted.

After reading the information on this website, if you are still interested in becoming a Freemason, we advise that you first talk to a family member, friend or colleague whom you already know to be a member.

They will be able to explain to you what they can about the fraternity and help you find a suitable Lodge.

If you don’t know anyone at all who is a member, then please contact us.

We can:

• Answer any further questions you may have about Freemasonry.
• Discuss the procedure of joining a suitable Lodge.

You would then in due course be invited to meet a committee of members from a Lodge you might be joining, prior to being balloted for membership of that Lodge.

All being well, a date would then be fixed for your admission.

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Why become a Freemason?

Every Freemason has his own reason for joining. For many, Freemasonry acts as a ‘constant’, providing them with a unique combination of friendship, belonging and structure, with many Freemasons saying they have made valuable lifelong friendships.

Above all and for most, Freemasonry is simply an enjoyable hobby.

Other reasons include:

• Achievement – progressing through the offices in the Lodge to become Master.
• Brotherhood – making new friends from all walks of life. Charity – contribute to deserving causes, both Masonic and non-Masonic
• Education – learning from peers and mentors by practicing and making speeches.
• Knowledge – finding out about the history and mysteries of Freemasonry.
• Self improvement – making a contribution to your family, society and local community.

How much does it cost?

You don’t have to be well-off to become a Freemason. It costs less than you may think and is comparable to other organisations.

It varies from Lodge to Lodge, but anyone wishing to join can find a Lodge to suit his pocket.

On entry, there is a one-off joining fee. A member also pays an annual subscription to his Lodge which covers his membership and the administrative cost of running the Lodge.

These amounts will vary between Lodges, but on average expect to pay somewhere in the region of £50-£100 for the one-off joining fee, and £100 to £200 per annum.

It is usual to have a meal after the meeting; the cost of this can be either add to the annual subscription or paid for separately at the time.

It is entirely up to the individual member what he gives to Charity, but it should always be without detriment to his other responsibilities.

Similarly, he may join as many Lodges as his time and pocket can allow, as long as it does not adversely affect his family life and responsibilities.