What is Freemasonry?
Building Friendships. Supporting Communities. Inspiring Personal Growth.
Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest and largest fraternal organisations. It brings together people from different backgrounds who share common values and a desire to make a positive contribution to their communities.
At its heart, Freemasonry is about friendship, personal development, integrity and service. It encourages its members to become the best versions of themselves while enjoying the company and support of like-minded people.

About us
Our Purpose
Freemasonry provides a welcoming environment where members can build lifelong friendships, develop new skills and support charitable and community causes.
Whether someone joins in their twenties or later in life, Freemasonry offers opportunities to learn, grow and give back, while enjoying a strong sense of belonging.
Everything we do is guided by our four values.
Integrity
Being honest, trustworthy and doing the right thing.
Friendship
Creating lasting friendships built on kindness, support and respect.
Respect
Treating everyone with dignity, understanding and compassion.
Service
Making a positive difference in our communities through charitable giving and volunteering.
What Happens at a Lodge Meeting?
Every Lodge meeting combines tradition with friendship in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
A typical evening includes:
Arriving at the Lodge
Members arrive before the meeting, catch up over a drink and enjoy time together before the formal proceedings begin.
The Lodge Meeting
Meetings include traditional ceremonies, welcoming new members, supporting charitable causes and conducting the business of the Lodge. Every meeting follows a well-established structure that has been passed down through generations.
Dining Together
Following the meeting, members and visiting guests come together for dinner. This is where friendships are strengthened, conversations flow and new visitors quickly feel at home.
Many members say this is one of the most enjoyable parts of Lodge life.
More Than Meetings
Freemasonry isn't just about what happens inside the Lodge.
Throughout the year members enjoy:
- Social evenings
- Curry nights and informal dining
- Family events
- Charity fundraising
- Community volunteering
- Visits to other Lodges
- Educational talks
- Trips and organised visits
Many friendships continue well beyond Lodge meetings.
Supporting Our Communities
Service is one of the cornerstones of Freemasonry.
Across the country, Freemasons contribute millions of pounds every year to charitable causes while also volunteering thousands of hours to support local communities.
At Burghley Lodge, we are proud to support local charities and community initiatives, helping where we can and making a positive difference across Stamford and the surrounding area.
Freemasonry for Women
Freemasonry is open to both men and women through separate organisations.
Burghley Lodge is a Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England, which is a men's organisation. Women who are interested in Freemasonry can enjoy the same principles, values and traditions through two well-established organisations:
- The Order of Women Freemasons
- The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons
We enjoy a positive relationship with both organisations and are pleased to signpost anyone wishing to find out more.