FAQ

Who can join Woodstock Lodge?
- Membership is open to men aged 18 and over from all backgrounds and professions. We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of "fun-loving professionals" who value integrity and friendship.
Do I need to be invited to join?
- No. While many members join through a friend, we welcome "cold" inquiries. If you don't know a member, we invite you to one of our informal Woodstock Nights so we can get to know each other first.
Is there a religious requirement?
- Freemasonry is not a religion, but it does require members to have a belief in a "Supreme Being." This is a personal belief and we do not discuss specific religious dogmas or politics within the lodge.

What are "Woodstock Nights"?
- These are our informal social evenings held fortnightly on Monday evenings. We typically meet for a curry or a meal at a local restaurant before heading to the Masonic Centre for a "Lodge of Instruction" (rehearsal). Non-Masons are very welcome to join the dinner portion!
When and where are the formal meetings?
- We meet four times a year at the Guildford Masonic Centre (Weybourne House). Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of October and December, and the 1st Tuesday of March and June.
What happens at a meeting?
- Meetings consist of two parts: the administrative business (minutes, accounts, charity updates) and a ceremonial "play" that teaches moral lessons. This is followed by a "Festive Board"—a formal three-course dinner.

How much does it cost to be a member?
- There is an annual subscription fee (approx. £200–£240) and a one-off initiation fee. Additionally, members pay for their meals at the Festive Board (usually around £30 for a 3-course meal).
How much time do I need to commit?
- At a minimum, the four formal meetings a year. However, to get the most out of the lodge, we encourage attending the fortnightly social nights and rehearsals whenever possible.

What are the four core values of Freemasonry?
- The UGLE highlights four guiding principles: Integrity (being honest and trustworthy), Friendship (forming lifelong bonds), Respect (valuing diversity and harmony), and Service (contributing to charity and the community).
Are Freemasons expected to give preference to fellow members in business?
- Absolutely not. On joining, every member must state that they expect no material gain. Using membership to promote personal or business interests is strictly prohibited and can lead to expulsion.
Is Freemasonry a secret society?
- No. Freemasons are encouraged to speak openly about their membership. While we have certain traditional rituals that are kept private to maintain the experience for new members, our meeting places, aims, and local activities are all public knowledge.

Why do Freemasons wear aprons and regalia?
- Our regalia is symbolic of our storied roots as medieval stonemasons who wore leather aprons to protect themselves. Today, they serve as a "uniform" that indicates a member’s rank and progress within the organization.
What is the "Festive Board"?
- This is the dinner that follows every formal meeting. It is a key part of the evening where members socialise, enjoy a meal (typically three courses), and toast to the success of the lodge and its charitable efforts.
How long does it take to become a Master Mason?
- The journey through the three "degrees" (Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason) typically takes between one and two years, depending on the lodge's meeting schedule.

Can women join Freemasonry?
- Yes. While the Woodstock Lodge is part of the UGLE (which is for men), there are two prominent female-only Grand Lodges in the UK: The Order of Women Freemasons and Freemasonry for Women. They follow the same ceremonies and values as male lodges.
Does it matter what my job is?
- No. Freemasonry is a "great leveller." Members come from all walks of life—from CEOs and software engineers to manual labourers—all meeting on an equal footing.

Dates of Meetings