The Order of Women Freemasons, established in 1908 and exclusively female since 1935, is the oldest and largest Masonic organization for women in the UK, with headquarters in Notting Hill Gate, London. Membership is open to women aged 21 and over, of good character, who believe in a Supreme Being, regardless of race or faith. The Order comprises around 4,000 members across over 300 Craft Lodges, meeting at least four times annually. It promotes further Masonic education through initiatives like The Pembridge Society and collaborates with the United Grand Lodge of England to attract new members via the Universities Scheme. Freemasonry for Women (HFAF), founded in 1913, includes approximately 800 members and mirrors the structure and aims of male Freemasonry, emphasizing charity and fair treatment. HFAF fosters a supportive community, encouraging moral guidance and personal empowerment through Lodge activities, aiming to inspire women to enhance their self-confidence and social connections.
December 7th, 2025
February 10th, 2026
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External source: www.ugle.org.uk
Women Freemasons
The Order of Women Freemasons is the oldest and largest Masonic organization for women in the UK, established as the Grand Lodge of the Honourable Order of Ancient Masonry in 1908 and adopting its current title in 1958. Initially open to both men and women, it became exclusively female by 1935. The headquarters have been located in Notting Hill Gate, London, since 1925, managed by the Grand Master and her voluntary secretariat.
Membership is open to women of any race or faith who are at least 21 years old, of good character, and believe in a Supreme Being. The Order has around 4,000 members across more than 300 Craft Lodges in the UK and abroad, meeting at least four times a year. It encourages members to pursue further and higher degrees and has established The Pembridge Society for new and young Freemasons to enhance their Masonic knowledge.
The Order collaborates with the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) to promote the Universities Scheme and has participated in university Freshers’ Fairs to recruit new members.
Freemasonry for Women (HFAF)
Founded in 1913, Freemasonry for Women (HFAF) is another Masonic fraternity for women, with approximately 800 members and Lodges in the UK and overseas. It shares the same aims and organizational structure as male Freemasonry, focusing on charity and fair treatment among members.
HFAF fosters a vibrant community of women from diverse backgrounds and beliefs, promoting moral guidance and education through allegory and symbolism. It emphasizes friendship, inspiration, and empowerment, helping members build bonds and combat feelings of isolation. The organization aims to inspire women to become their best selves and to empower them with self-confidence and belief in their abilities through participation in Lodge activities and ceremonies.