Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest social and charitable organisations.

Its traditions draw on the customs of medieval stonemasons, who used recognised signs and methods to identify their skills as they travelled for work. Many of the symbols used in Freemasonry today come from those craft traditions.

In modern life, Freemasonry uses the language and symbolism of building to encourage members to build character, strengthen friendships and contribute positively to their communities. Freemasons no longer build cathedrals and castles — but they do aim to build better lives, better relationships and stronger communities.

People join Freemasonry for many different reasons, and every member has their own story.

For some, it is about friendship and belonging. For others, it is about personal development, community service, or becoming part of a tradition with real depth and meaning. For members of the Old Rugbeian Lodge, it is also a unique way to maintain a lifelong connection with Rugby School and with fellow Old Rugbeians in London and beyond.

Freemasonry offers a supportive community built around shared values, charitable purpose and mutual respect. It gives members a framework for living well, contributing to society, and building lasting friendships across generations and professions.

Old Rugbeian Lodge No. 3551 is a lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). Membership of UGLE is open to men aged 18+, irrespective of race or religion, subject to the usual requirements.

In our Lodge, we welcome enquiries from those with a genuine connection to Rugby School, including:

• Old Rugbeians (alumni)

• Current and former members of staff

• Others with close, longstanding ties to the School / Old Rugbeian community (considered case-by-case)

Women and Freemasonry: Old Rugbeian Lodge (as a UGLE lodge) admits men. Women who are interested in Freemasonry are invited to consider one of the UK’s two female-only Grand Lodges — The Order of Women Freemasons and Freemasonry for Women (HFAF) — which follow the same ceremonies and wear the same regalia as male Freemasons, and have an excellent working relationship with UGLE.

https://www.ugle.org.uk/become-freemason/women-freemasons

Freemasonry has roots that stretch back several centuries, with traditions linked to medieval stonemasons.

A major milestone in its modern development was the formation of the first Grand Lodge in England in 1717. From that point, Freemasonry developed into a structured organisation that spread widely and influenced social and charitable life in many countries.

While historians continue to debate aspects of its earliest origins, Freemasonry’s long history is one of the reasons it continues to interest people today.

Freemasonry is guided by four core values: Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service.

Integrity

Freemasonry encourages members to act with honesty, reliability and strong principles. Integrity is about doing the right thing, keeping your word, and being someone others can trust.

Friendship

Lodge life creates opportunities to build genuine and lasting friendships. Members meet people of different ages, careers and backgrounds, and often form connections that last for many years.

Respect

Freemasonry values courtesy, tolerance and respect for others. It brings together people from different backgrounds and encourages an atmosphere of civility, understanding and mutual regard.

Service

Service sits at the heart of Freemasonry. This can include charitable giving, fundraising, volunteering, and using your time or skills to support others and the wider community.

Freemasonry is traditionally structured around three degrees, each marking a stage in a member’s journey.

First Degree – Entered Apprentice

This is the starting point in Freemasonry. It introduces the candidate to the principles of the Craft and the idea that all people are equal in dignity and deserving of respect.

Second Degree – Fellowcraft

This stage encourages learning, personal growth and self-improvement. It places emphasis on developing knowledge, judgement and character.

Third Degree – Master Mason

The third degree is the completion of the core journey in Craft Freemasonry. It focuses on living wisely, acting honourably, and leaving a good legacy through one’s conduct and service.

Freemasonry is organised through local units called Lodges, where members meet regularly.

A Lodge meeting usually has two parts. The first covers lodge business, such as administrative matters, membership proposals and charitable updates. The second part is focused on ceremony, which may include welcoming new members or installing the Master and officers of the Lodge.

For the Old Rugbeian Lodge, the social part of the evening is also very important. After meetings, members and guests often dine together, which is where much of the friendship, conversation and enjoyment of lodge life takes place.