Meyrick Lodge

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Meyrick Lodge

No old boys’ network.  No secret entry requirements.  Just a genuine interest in being part of something bigger than yourself – and the ability to handle good-natured banter.

Regular Meetings Third Tuesday · The Knole, Bournemouth
Open to all men of good character Any profession, background or age from 21+
No commitment to visit Come along informally before deciding anything
Festive Board after every meeting A sit-down dinner — we take it seriously

Who we welcome

You Might Be Surprised Who’s Already a Freemason

Doctors, builders, designers, teachers, engineers, retirees – men in their 20s sitting alongside men in their 70s.  The diversity of Meyrick Lodge is one of its greatest strengths

Freemasonry asks you to be a good man and then helps you become a better one.

Men aged 18+ We actively welcome younger members — we have a growing contingent in their 20s and 30s
Any profession Our members span every walk of life — no particular background is preferred
Any faith or none Freemasonry is open to men of any religion or belief who hold a belief in a higher being
Bournemouth, Dorset & the New Forest We're based at The Knole, Bournemouth — easily accessible from across the region
Curious about Freemasonry You don't need to know anything about Freemasonry before enquiring
Good character We look for men who are honest, reliable and want to make a positive contribution
Time to commit Meetings are monthly — we ask for reasonable commitment without taking over your life
A sense of humour We take Freemasonry seriously — we don't always take ourselves seriously

How to Join

Four Steps to Becoming a Member

01

Make an Enquiry

Get in touch via our enquiry form or email the secretary directly – no obligation, no pressure.

02

Informal Visit

Come along to an informal social evening and meet some of our members before committing to anything.

03

Proposal

If you’d like to proceed, a member proposes you to the lodge.  We’ll guide you through the paperwork – it’s straightforward.

04

Initiation

A memorable ceremony welcoming you into the lodge.  The start of something genuinely worthwhile.

COMMON QUESTIONS

What People Usually Ask

We get the same questions fairly often, and we’re always happy to answer them,  Here are the most common ones – honestly.

Don't see your question here? Drop us a message — we'll get back to you within a day or two, usually much sooner.
Is Freemasonry a secret society?

No. We're a society with some secrets — there's a difference. Our existence, membership, and charitable work are completely public. Some of the ceremonial content is private to members, but there's nothing sinister about it. We're listed on the United Grand Lodge of England's public register.

Do I need to know a Freemason to join?

Not at all. While having a personal introduction helps, it's not a requirement. You can contact us directly and we'll arrange for you to meet some of our members informally before anything else happens.

What happens at a lodge meeting?

A lodge meeting has two parts: a formal ceremony in the lodge room, conducted according to ancient ritual, followed by a festive board — a sit-down dinner with good food, toasts, and conversation. The ceremony is dignified; the dinner is considerably less so.

How much time does it take up?

Meyrick Lodge meets nine times a year. Most members also attend one or two additional lodge events annually. We ask for reasonable commitment — not for Freemasonry to take over your life.

Is there a religious element?

Freemasonry requires a belief in a Supreme Being but is not affiliated with any particular religion. Members of all faiths — and none — are welcome, provided they hold that basic belief. It is not a religion and does not replace one.

FROM OUR MEMBERS

Don't Take Our Word For It

"

I was nervous about joining — I didn't know anyone and wasn't sure what to expect. Within two meetings I felt completely at home. The welcome was genuine, not performed.

JR
James R. Member since 2019
"

I joined expecting ceremony and got that — but I didn't expect the friendships. Men I'd never have met otherwise. That's the bit nobody tells you about.

DM
David M. Member since 2015
"

The festive board alone is worth it. Proper food, proper conversation, and someone always says something that makes the whole table laugh. Every single time.

MT
Michael T. Member since 2021

Take the first step

Ready to Find Out More?

No commitment, no pressure.  Fill in the form and we’ll be in touch within 48 hours to arrange an informal chat over a drink.

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