Becoming
a Member
Freemasonry has an old saying: to be one, ask one. We do not recruit. The first move is always yours.
Who can join
Membership is open to any man of eighteen or over who is of good character and can say, honestly, that he believes in a higher power. That belief is left entirely to you – men of every faith are welcome, and so are men who hold their beliefs quietly.
What it asks of you
Two things: a little time and a little money. Six meetings a year, plus the occasional social evening. A joining fee, an annual subscription, and the cost of dining together. We will set all of this out plainly when we meet, with no surprises.
For women
Our lodge is for men. Women who wish to become Freemasons are warmly served by the Order of Women Freemasons and HFAF – Freemasonry for Women, whose members also meet at The Knole.
Six meetings a year on the fourth Tuesday – plus the occasional social evening. No more than that is expected.
"Discover Freemasonry" is the Province's official introduction for anyone thinking of joining.
Read the leaflet (PDF)How it works
Seven steps, no surprises.
You get in touch
Send us a message through the contact page. That is all it takes to start the conversation.
We meet for a chat
One of our members will arrange to meet you – a coffee or a quiet pub – to answer your questions honestly. No commitment on either side.
You meet the lodge
If it feels right, you will be invited to one of our social evenings so you and the members can get to know one another properly.
A proper conversation
A few senior members will sit down with you to talk things through fully – so that everyone is sure of the fit before going further.
Your application
With your agreement, your name goes forward to the United Grand Lodge of England, proposed and seconded by members of the lodge.
The lodge votes
By long tradition, the members vote on every candidate. A formality once you have come this far – but one we keep.
You are initiated
A date is set, and you join us as an Entered Apprentice. Many men stay with it for the rest of their lives.