Museum of Freemasonry
Museum of Freemasonry
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Museum of Freemasonry is the home of the freemasons' history. You can find us in the heart of London between Holborn and Govent Garden. We're free and open to all.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Covent Garden
Whether you're headed here to check out the multitude of shops, theaters, cafes, pubs, and restaurants, or simply to be among the multitude of people who pass through this pretty part of town, you'll love soaking up the festive and historic atmosphere in and around Covent Garden. Even if you don't have tickets to the opera or a show at one of the many famous theaters here, don't be surprised if find yourself captivated by some impromptu act of a street performer wowing the crowds in Covent Garden's Piazza. If you do have tickets, you'll be pleased to note that many of the local eateries accommodate theatergoers with prix fixe menus, early dinners, and later than usual opening hours. 


How to get there
- Holborn • 4 min walk
- Covent Garden • 4 min walk
Reach out directly
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See what travellers are saying
- DiscerningPenguinCambridge, United Kingdom205 contributionsGrand!What an exceptional little museum - absolutely fascinating artifacts, especially those relating to famous historic events as they impacted the craft, eg the siege of Ladysmith and the occupation of Jersey. I learnt lots of new facts, including that conspiracy theories are nothing new! The art deco building is stunning, and it's definitely worth paying the small fee to see inside the gorgeous Grand Temple. The cafe downstairs is very pleasant and good value - and you get a discount if you've paid to see the Temple!Thank you very much for your review. We're very glad you enjoyed your visit. Do come and see us again soon!Written 9 March 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2022Written 21 December 2022
- 55mo55London, United Kingdom234 contributionsEducational in a nice wayLess than 15 minutes walk from Sir John Soanes museum is this little gem. A solid building from outside , a beautiful building inside, spectacular cafe with plenty of comfortable seating with stunning lighting and great feeling of space and light. Then upstairs for the museum, small but perfectly formed. Lots of beautiful items which are well displayed and with plenty of information. Plus the whole thing is once again FREE. Well worth a visit.Thank you for your review - we're very glad you enjoyed your visit!Written 9 March 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2023Written 9 January 2023
- MargotME202310 contributionsFreemasonry Museum--An Unexpected BeautyWe didn't know anything about Freemasonry and actually stumbled across this museum by chance. However, it was absolutely worth the visit! Beautiful rooms, and lots of information, although we still don't really understand a lot of it (I guess that's why it's a secret society). Definitely recommend visiting.Many thanks for taking the time to leave us a review - we're really pleased that you enjoyed your visit! If you're looking for more information, we've got a fair few posts on our blog going into detail about lots of aspects of freemasonry in general so feel free to have a look around the website.Written 1 December 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 21 August 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
121 reviews
Excellent
75
Very good
34
Average
10
Poor
2
Terrible
0
Robert Graham
6 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
I had an very good informative and enlightening tour of the museum and Grand Hall. I strongly recommend the tour. Thank you.
Written 11 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you taking the time to leave a review. We're really glad you enjoyed your visit!
Written 1 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MargotME2023
10 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
We didn't know anything about Freemasonry and actually stumbled across this museum by chance. However, it was absolutely worth the visit! Beautiful rooms, and lots of information, although we still don't really understand a lot of it (I guess that's why it's a secret society). Definitely recommend visiting.
Written 21 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for taking the time to leave us a review - we're really pleased that you enjoyed your visit!
If you're looking for more information, we've got a fair few posts on our blog going into detail about lots of aspects of freemasonry in general so feel free to have a look around the website.
Written 1 December 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
55mo55
London, UK234 contributions
Jan 2023
Less than 15 minutes walk from Sir John Soanes museum is this little gem. A solid building from outside , a beautiful building inside, spectacular cafe with plenty of comfortable seating with stunning lighting and great feeling of space and light. Then upstairs for the museum, small but perfectly formed. Lots of beautiful items which are well displayed and with plenty of information. Plus the whole thing is once again FREE.
Well worth a visit.
Well worth a visit.
Written 9 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review - we're very glad you enjoyed your visit!
Written 9 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DiscerningPenguin
Cambridge, UK205 contributions
Dec 2022
What an exceptional little museum - absolutely fascinating artifacts, especially those relating to famous historic events as they impacted the craft, eg the siege of Ladysmith and the occupation of Jersey. I learnt lots of new facts, including that conspiracy theories are nothing new! The art deco building is stunning, and it's definitely worth paying the small fee to see inside the gorgeous Grand Temple. The cafe downstairs is very pleasant and good value - and you get a discount if you've paid to see the Temple!
Written 21 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your review. We're very glad you enjoyed your visit. Do come and see us again soon!
Written 9 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brian T
London, UK6,782 contributions
Oct 2022 • Solo
Freemasonry has been shrouded in secrecy, mystery, intrigue and scandal for a long time, and I was hoping that a visit to this museum would be revealing and enlightening. It wasn’t. Yes, it’s informative, with interesting displays of important artefacts and paraphernalia from its history over three centuries, but that’s about it. You wan’t glean anymore about freemasonry than that, and I think that aspect has been quite purposeful on the part of the museum.
The museum is housed on the first floor of the impressive Freemasons’ Hall, an outstanding Art Deco building in Covent Garden. The Hall is the headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England and the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England, as well as being a meeting place for many Masonic Lodges in the London area. It’s built in classic art deco style, and was constructed between 1927 and 1933. It’s the third building on a site which has been hosting the activities of freemasonry since 1775. The museum advertises itself as ‘free’; that is correct to a point; If you wish to see the nitty gritty of the complex, particularly the lavish Grand Temple and the beautiful war memorial , you will need to pay to join a guided tour (£12.00) or take a self-guided audio tour to have access to these parts. The self- guided audio tour costs £5.00 and tickets can be purchased at the shop by the entrance to the museum. There is a security check on entrance on the ground floor, and a bag search.
The North Gallery is filled with glass cabinets filled to the brim with objects and paraphernalia relating to freemasonry over the centuries. The most prominent object is the huge 230-year-old ceremonial throne that was built in 1791 from gilded lime wood. It reflects the stature of the Royal Grand Master it was made for, the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. You will see historic badges and items of clothing worn by the masons throughout the years, as well as information about some of its notable members. There’s certainly some exquisite pieces, including a piece of Meissen dated around the mid 18th century. I didn’t find the objects particularly well-labeled, and some that had information panels were not easy to read. I actually got a bit lost with what I was looking at and trying to understand, what I was seeing; it all seemed a bit haphazard and disjointed, even with the audio guide. I think some form of easily-read information boards at the start of the museum, putting freemasonry into historical perspective as well as its role today, would be really useful in helping the visitor understand what they were looking at in a modern context.
You will see the Kent Room, which is a typical active meeting room for a number of local lodges. You are also able to visit the Library.
However, it’s worth paying the £5.00 extra for access to the Grand Temple. This extravagant and richly appointed huge meeting room is the meeting place for the Grand Lodge. Along the ceiling cove you’ll see exquisite mosaic tile work depicting figures and symbols from masonic rituals, and figures representing the four cardinal virtues of freemasonry: Prudence, Temperance, Fortitude, and Justice. The ceiling itself is also noteworthy. There’s a grand pipe organ, and a very ornate dais. In the vestibule of the Grand Temple you will see a striking War Memorial.
I particularly enjoyed just seeing the interiors of this beautiful and listed art redo building. It’s a triumph in art deco craftsmanship and style, and will give you a decent glimpse into this architectural period of our history. To be honest, this is the aspect I enjoyed the most of all with my visit to the museum.
Did I learn much? No. Am I any closer to understanding the mysteries, secrets, rituals and purposes of freemasonry? No. Did I get a glimpse into issues such as its membership for women? No. Would I go again? No.
It’s a short walk from Covent Garden Underground station. On exiting the station turn left then right into Long Acre, and follow it along until you cross Drury Lane. You’ll see the grand art deco ’tower’ of the Freemasons’ Hall on your right.
The museum is housed on the first floor of the impressive Freemasons’ Hall, an outstanding Art Deco building in Covent Garden. The Hall is the headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England and the Supreme Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of England, as well as being a meeting place for many Masonic Lodges in the London area. It’s built in classic art deco style, and was constructed between 1927 and 1933. It’s the third building on a site which has been hosting the activities of freemasonry since 1775. The museum advertises itself as ‘free’; that is correct to a point; If you wish to see the nitty gritty of the complex, particularly the lavish Grand Temple and the beautiful war memorial , you will need to pay to join a guided tour (£12.00) or take a self-guided audio tour to have access to these parts. The self- guided audio tour costs £5.00 and tickets can be purchased at the shop by the entrance to the museum. There is a security check on entrance on the ground floor, and a bag search.
The North Gallery is filled with glass cabinets filled to the brim with objects and paraphernalia relating to freemasonry over the centuries. The most prominent object is the huge 230-year-old ceremonial throne that was built in 1791 from gilded lime wood. It reflects the stature of the Royal Grand Master it was made for, the Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV. You will see historic badges and items of clothing worn by the masons throughout the years, as well as information about some of its notable members. There’s certainly some exquisite pieces, including a piece of Meissen dated around the mid 18th century. I didn’t find the objects particularly well-labeled, and some that had information panels were not easy to read. I actually got a bit lost with what I was looking at and trying to understand, what I was seeing; it all seemed a bit haphazard and disjointed, even with the audio guide. I think some form of easily-read information boards at the start of the museum, putting freemasonry into historical perspective as well as its role today, would be really useful in helping the visitor understand what they were looking at in a modern context.
You will see the Kent Room, which is a typical active meeting room for a number of local lodges. You are also able to visit the Library.
However, it’s worth paying the £5.00 extra for access to the Grand Temple. This extravagant and richly appointed huge meeting room is the meeting place for the Grand Lodge. Along the ceiling cove you’ll see exquisite mosaic tile work depicting figures and symbols from masonic rituals, and figures representing the four cardinal virtues of freemasonry: Prudence, Temperance, Fortitude, and Justice. The ceiling itself is also noteworthy. There’s a grand pipe organ, and a very ornate dais. In the vestibule of the Grand Temple you will see a striking War Memorial.
I particularly enjoyed just seeing the interiors of this beautiful and listed art redo building. It’s a triumph in art deco craftsmanship and style, and will give you a decent glimpse into this architectural period of our history. To be honest, this is the aspect I enjoyed the most of all with my visit to the museum.
Did I learn much? No. Am I any closer to understanding the mysteries, secrets, rituals and purposes of freemasonry? No. Did I get a glimpse into issues such as its membership for women? No. Would I go again? No.
It’s a short walk from Covent Garden Underground station. On exiting the station turn left then right into Long Acre, and follow it along until you cross Drury Lane. You’ll see the grand art deco ’tower’ of the Freemasons’ Hall on your right.
Written 2 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for such a detailed review - plenty for us to think about. We'll make sure this is passed onto our Trustees.
In the meantime, here's a new exhibition coming in 2023 so we hope to see you again!
Written 6 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ewa S
Baltinglass, Ireland996 contributions
Oct 2022 • Friends
The building is impressive outside and inside. The customer service is fantastic, my friend emailed them regarding the guided tour, as she could only buy one last ticket not two, and not only they emailed her back straight away with all other options, but also contacted her a few days later that some more spots are available. I would suggest to pay for the guided tour to see the chapel, the tour itself was interesting but not much was said about some conspiracy theories and legends surrounding the organisation. The coffee shop and bar are very good and well priced.
Written 31 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tinkle_24
Northampton, UK1,732 contributions
Aug 2021
Very interesting information set in an Art Deco building. Plenty of information to give a more balanced view of what Freemasons do? Friendly and helpful staff. Beautiful Art Deco mirrors in the toilet and on the grand staircase.
Written 31 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Patrick Q
1 contribution
Jun 2021
The museum displays an impressive range of artefacts from the organisation's 300 year history, many of which have interesting stories to tell. The exhibition would benefit from a brief opening section to give an overview of the organisation's timeline, complex structure, hierarchy, etc, in its own right, rather than relying on visitors gleaning this information from the explanations attached to individual artefacts.
However, any questions we had (and with our interest piqued by the exhibition, we had many!) were more than fully answered by the exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate guide, whose willingness to discuss various aspects of the organisation's history at length and in great detail overall made for an enriching, informative and enjoyable experience.
However, any questions we had (and with our interest piqued by the exhibition, we had many!) were more than fully answered by the exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate guide, whose willingness to discuss various aspects of the organisation's history at length and in great detail overall made for an enriching, informative and enjoyable experience.
Written 3 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GiorgioMig
Melbourne, Australia2 contributions
Oct 2020
Tours can be hit and miss at the best of times, but add in the complexity of a virtual tour hosted by Zoom and the inherent issues you might expect with wifi issues etc and you'd be forgiven for having low expectations.
When I reached out to arrange a virtual tour I was worried about how it would go but I needn't have worried.
The tour was fantastic and I must say it was made all the better by having Tara Griffin as the tour guide - her knowledge and passion shone through and she made us feel as if we were right there with her and not on the other side of the world.
Thoroughly enjoyed by all of us who attended. Thank you Tara.
When I reached out to arrange a virtual tour I was worried about how it would go but I needn't have worried.
The tour was fantastic and I must say it was made all the better by having Tara Griffin as the tour guide - her knowledge and passion shone through and she made us feel as if we were right there with her and not on the other side of the world.
Thoroughly enjoyed by all of us who attended. Thank you Tara.
Written 26 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elif T
3 contributions
Sep 2020
Tara Griffin transformed an ordinary museum experience into a rich treasure hunt in the time.
Today was my second time in the museum and Tara made a significant difference.
She is friendly and has deep knowledge across multi-disciplines and she sure is a creative soul.
She is a great asset to the museum, I hope to see her again!
Today was my second time in the museum and Tara made a significant difference.
She is friendly and has deep knowledge across multi-disciplines and she sure is a creative soul.
She is a great asset to the museum, I hope to see her again!
Written 8 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Claim your listingMUSEUM OF FREEMASONRY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Museum of Freemasonry
- Museum of Freemasonry is open:
- Mon - Sat 10:00 - 17:00
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- (0.01 mi) Ritorno Covent Garden
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- (0.02 mi) Cafe & Bar At Freemasons' Hall