Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Freemasonry in the United Kingdom, which also apply to the Southampton Lodge in particular: 

Freemasonry is a fraternal organisation that traces its origins back to the stonemasons’ guilds of the Middle Ages. It is based on the principles of brotherhood, morality, and charity, and members are guided by a system of moral and philosophical teachings.

The purpose of Freemasonry is to promote personal growth, moral development, and mutual support among its members. It also encourages charity, community service, and the advancement of knowledge and understanding.

People join for many different reasons, some for the friendships they make with people of different ages, races, experiences and interests, drawn together by Freemasonry. Others enjoy the ceremonial aspects, as our meetings consist of centuries old lessons about you, how you live your life, and how the decisions you make can help you become a better person. For some, they resonate with our desire to look after those less fortunate than ourselves, through our community work and charitable donations.

Whatever the reason, if you share these values and are seeking the company of like-minded people, then Freemasonry could definitely be for you.

Our Lodge boasts a membership from a wide range of age groups, from those in their early 20’s all the way up to members in their 90’s. This breadth of age ranges helps to provide a unique social environment, where our members enjoy the benefits of socialising with those from a different generation or background and forming new friendships.

The Southampton Lodge welcomes people from all walks of life, and currently has members from those working (or retired) in music, dance, trade professions, automotive, medical, IT and everything in between. We are a friendly, diverse bunch who have a good time doing what we do, and we are proud of it.

But don’t just take our word for it, get in contact, meet us for a drink and decide for yourself. Even if we aren’t the right lodge for you, we will have great pleasure in seeing you out and about if you do join Freemasonry.

The Southampton Lodge holds it’s meetings on the third Thursday of the months of September through to April at Southampton Masonic Hall, Albion Place, Southampton, SO14 2DD, Hampshire, England,

Upon joining Freemasonry, new members are required to pay a one-time registration fee to the United Grand Lodge of England, which is currently £132 in 2026, along with a £40 joining fee for the Southampton Lodge. These amounts may vary annually due to inflation or other adjustments.

In addition to these initial fees, members must also cover the annual subscription for the Southampton Lodge, which is £170 per year in 2026. This subscription is pro-rated based on the month of joining.

Before being admitted, the full payment of these fees – the UGLE registration fee, the Southampton Lodge joining fee, and the pro-rated annual subscription – must be made in advance.

From the second year onward, the ongoing annual subscription fee of £170 will be payable every 1st January.

Freemasonry is open to men of all backgrounds and professions who meet certain eligibility criteria, including being of good character, believing in some form of Supreme Being, and being of mature age (18 years or older).

Freemasonry is not a religion, but it does require its members to believe in a Supreme Being. Beyond that, Freemasonry is inclusive of individuals from various religious backgrounds, and members are encouraged to practice their own faith while respecting the beliefs of others.

Freemasonry is not a secret society, but it does have certain aspects that are kept private, such as its modes of recognition and ceremonial rituals. However, Freemasons are encouraged to be open about their membership and activities (if they wish), and many lodges have public events and charitable initiatives.

Charity is a fundamental principle of Freemasonry, and lodges engage in various charitable activities to support those in need, both within the Masonic community and in the wider society. This includes providing financial assistance, volunteering time and resources, and supporting charitable organisations and causes.

Lodge meetings typically involve ceremonial rituals, educational presentations, and discussions on Masonic philosophy and symbolism. Members also conduct lodge business, such as voting on matters of administration and finance.

Freemasonry is organised into a hierarchical system of degrees, with the three basic degrees being Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. There are also additional degrees, such as those conferred in the Scottish Rite and York Rite systems, which provide further opportunities for learning and advancement.

Freemasonry originally started as a fraternity for men, but there are also organisations for women, such as the Order of the Eastern Star and the Order of Women Freemasons. Some jurisdictions also have co-masonic lodges that admit both men and women.

The Southampton Lodge falls under the jurisdiction of the United Grand Lodge of England and is a male only lodge.

To become a Freemason, you typically need to express your interest to a Masonic lodge and meet with members to discuss your suitability for membership. If accepted, you will go through an initiation ceremony and receive the degrees of Freemasonry. You can always enquire about becoming a Freemason and joining the Southampton Lodge by Contacting Us.

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