INTEGRITY

Rather than working on buildings like the masons of old, today’s Freemasons focus on building themselves as people of integrity, and membership provides the structure to help achieve that goal.

FRIENDSHIP

One of the oldest social organisations in the world, Freemasonry is not defined by an ideology. It is open to people from all religions and political persuasions, and provides the common foundation for friendships between members, many of which will last for life.

RESPECT

With a membership of more than 200,000 people drawn from communities across the UK, Freemasonry brings people together irrespective of their race, religion or any other perceived differences that can divide us as a society

SERVICE

Whether participating in events, fundraising for a charitable cause or volunteering for public or community organisations, service is at the very heart of Freemasonry. Our members make valuable contributions by donating time, resources and skills.

Welcome to the Provincial Grand Lodge of East Lancashire website.

This site has been designed to provide an insight into Freemasonry and we sincerely hope it will be of high interest to both Freemasons and non-Freemasons alike.

Here you will find information on what it is to be a Freemason, our proud history, how to join, what charitable works we’re involved with and coming social events. For a more complete view of current news and events, plus the views and opinions of our many members, please visit our social media pages.

You’re also welcome to contact us anytime if you have any queries.

Begin Your Journey

There are probably as many explanations of Freemasonry as there are Freemasons and every member will be able to tell you exactly what Freemasonry means to them.

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THE PGLEL 2026 FESTIVAL APPEAL

We are all well initiated on the importance of Charity, It is now our time to give something back. The Province hopes to have raised £2.4 M by the end of the Appeal and we can only achieve this with your help.

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£60,000 grant to Bolton Lads & Girls Club

On Monday 9th June, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Robert Ian Frankl, accompanied by the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Dr Simon Archer, and representatives from the Province and...

Quiz Night Grand Final

A convivial atmosphere, spirited competition, and plenty of brain-teasing questions defined this year’s Quiz Night Grand Final — and it did not disappoint! Held on Monday 23rd June at Bury Masonic...
How_Freemasonry_Was_Born_Presentation_Logo

1717: How Freemasonry was Born Presentation

Myths and Legend appear to be fundamental elements in the construction of ideas and feelings that are transmitted with them. The World is partly based on them. They contribute to their expression...

Bi-Centenary Celebration Dinner – Tie & Tinsel 2025

SAVE THE DATE! You're invited to the Bi-Centenary Celebration Dinner - Tie & Tinsel 2025! Saturday 29th November Cloister Suite, Holiday Inn, Bolton BL1 2EW 6pm - 12am...

Grand Total for EL Festival Sponsored Walk events

We are delighted to announce that the Grand Total raised by the Fundraising Committee for the Sponsored Walk events over the last 3 years combined is a remarkable £20,182 so far! A big thank you...

Celebrating Freemasonry – Fellowship, Charity, and a Good Night Out

When people ask us what Freemasonry is all about, we often begin with the broader perspective – the good we do and the causes we support. Through established institutions like Hewlett Court and the...

Delacy Lodge 4591 – Welcomes Thistle and Crown 1167

What an excellent afternoon and evening, and we had on Saturday, June 14th, when our brothers from Lodge Thistle and Crown 1167, hailing from Renfrewshire East and under the esteemed roll of the...

ELMC Educational Grant

Thanks to a £2,100 grant from the ELMC Educational Fund, the Ribble Valley ART4ALL charity group recently enjoyed an inspiring trip to Salts Mill to view the works of renowned artist David Hockney....

East Lancashire Bicentenary Treasure Hunt

The East Lancashire Bicentenary Treasure Hunt, which took place on Sunday 18th May 2025 was a great success, with, to date, £3,485 being raised for the EL Festival 2026, which is an excellent...

A New Chapter Begins | University Chapter Rededication at Bolton Masonic Hall

A momentous occasion in the life of East Lancashire Royal Arch Masonry is fast approaching, and all Companions are warmly invited to be a part of it. The Chapter of Hope No.54 has been repurposed as...

What our Brethren Say

The lessons taught have helped me in my personal life and my lodge brethren continue to amaze me in their dedication to each other and our wider community. I’m proud to be a Freemason and would recommend anybody who is curious to come and enquire.

Gareth Baron

St Martin’s 2320

As a 20-year member I became a Mason because I believed I was joining men who thought in a similar way to myself. Very true to a large extent, what I hadn’t realised was that wherever you go when visiting you are immediately among friends you had yet to meet.

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Colin Smith
Grants 8825

Freemasonry is like being part of a fantastic story, you just want to learn more and more. While doing so, you meet new friends, that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Andy Beaumont

Good Report 7370

Freemasonry is great way to make new friends and connect with old ones. It gives you the chance grow as a person and share that knowledge with others. It’s more than a brotherhood; it’s a family.

Andy Robson
Lodge of Union 268

Freemasonry has complimented and helped me to understand my journey in life. I’ve also met new friends who will stay with me for the rest of my journey.

Sonny Welsh
Felicity 4365

But that’s only a very small part of the story. It’s not about why I joined, but more about why I’ve stayed. I’ve stayed because I’ve seen with my eyes, and felt with my heart, the love, care, friendship and support that Masons give each other, not just within the framework of the Lodge Room or meetings, but in the wider world. A better bunch of lads I’ve yet to find..

Roger Bowden
Knowsley 4661

Freemasonary is a guaranteed social life. It’s a great way to make new friends and stay in touch with old ones. It’s the ability to grow as a person and extend what has been learnt to others seeking similar growth…

Chris Daniels
Iron Road 4964