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The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland

The Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland is the governing body of Scottish Freemasonry, founded in 1736, and headquartered in Edinburgh. It is led by a Grand Master Mason. The structure of the Grand Lodge of Scotland includes 32 Provincial Grand Lodges in Scotland, 26 District Grand Lodges overseas, 4 Superintendents overseeing Lodges in smaller territories and individual Lodges that are under the direct supervision of the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
The Grand Master Mason commissions Provincial and District Grand Masters who assist him in the overseeing of the Lodges in their provinces and districts worldwide.
It is not clear exactly when Freemasonry began but it is widely accepted to have originated from the stonemason trade guilds of the Middle Ages, referred to as ‘incorporated Trades’ or ‘Crafts’.
The term ‘incorporated’ comes from the fact that these various craft organisations held Royal charters, or ‘Seals of Cause’ which allowed them to work exclusively within the Royal Burghs in the Middle Ages. The language and symbols used in Freemasonic rituals today come from these older craft bodies.
The earliest use of the term Freemason’ dates from around 1390 but referred purely to operative members. The earliest known record of Masonic Lodges dates to January 1599, and from Lodge Aitchison’s Haven in East Lothian, Scotland, which closed in 1852. Six months later, in July 1599, the Lodge of Edinburgh (Mary’s Chapel) started to keep Minutes. Many of which are available in the museum of the Grand Lodge of Antient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland, highlighting Lodges with the oldest masonic heritage in the world today.

The Grand Lodge of Scotland

The Grand Master Mason, Brother William Ramsay McGhee

The Origins of Scottish Freemasonry

The Grand Lodge of Scotland
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Become a Freemason

Freemasonry is a Brotherhood of men sharing a focus on moral and spiritual values, dedicated to the ideals of promoting Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Every member is expected to profess a belief in a Supreme Being, regardless of their religion, and abide by the laws of the country of their residence. Freemasonry uses allegories and symbolism to teach liberal arts and sciences which form the basis of the ancient traditions. In essence, it inspires men to become a better version of themselves.

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Freemasons Hall – The Home of Scottish Freemasonry

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Freemasons Hall is the home of Scottish Freemasonry. It is situated in the very heart of the nation’s capital. The present Freemasons Hall was built during 1911 – 1912, replacing an earlier building that had been on the site since 1858. The previous building was designed by the famous Scottish architect and Freemason, Brother David Bryce.
The grandeur and elegance of the venue rises 4 floors to the pinnacle of the building which is capped by a beautiful glass dome.

With stunning and unique features throughout, including Robert Burns’ and King George the Sixth’s Regalia the venue offers a truly unique experience for weddings of up to 250 guests, and corporate events of up to 520 delegates.
If you are interested in booking Freemasons Hall for your event, please complete our Booking Enquiry Form.

Scottish Freemasonry Worldwide

32 Provinces
26 Districts
4 Superintendents
Over 40 Countries
Freemasons Hall
Freemasons Hall
33 Tripadvisor reviews
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greatretirement2017
greatretirement2017
28/09/2022
so interesting and were very happy to show non Masons around, beautiful building well worth a visit to see one of the original lodges, give them a call to see when it is convenient, within easy walking distance of the Edinburgh Castle
Paul A
Paul A
01/10/2020
Short stay Freemasons Hall, Edinburgh was a really worthwhile visit, we had to phone to arrange our visit and was met by a really knowledgeable guide who gave us a very comprehensive tour, whether you are a Mason or not well worth a visit
peaky1980
peaky1980
16/03/2020
Nice vist, interesting Had the tour and really enjoyed it. More relevant if you are in the craft but still interesting if you are not
Sotiris S
Sotiris S
16/12/2019
A truly exceptional location with major importance to Scottish History What can I say. I was privileged to be given a private tour by a good friend and brother last November. I whole heartedly hope to make a meeting on my next visit to Edinburgh.
laurent a
laurent a
25/10/2019
A faire absolument nous avons eut la chance d'avoir une visite guidée par un Franc-maçon écossais et le soir concert avec les musiciens militaires au profit des militarian's poppy. Musée magnifique la seule chose la bibliothèque était fermée dommage
craigmillar cas... p
craigmillar cas... p
11/08/2019
Fringe show Best of Irish 4 comedians 3 were excellent 1 sort of died on stage it was a flying visit we were just passing we bought 2 tickets and didn't know what we were going to get but 3 of the comedians were really quite funny but one particular lady wasn't even remotely funny but that's the fringe
Richard V
Richard V
02/10/2018
Fantastic short notice visit I popped along to Freemasons Hall , really on the off chance I could join a tour. Imagine my surprise when the lovely lady at reception arranged for me to have a one person tour just for me ! The whole tour was absolutely fascinating andmy guide was an excellent copanion , who brought the whole tour alive with his knowledge and enthusiasm. I hightly recommend a visit !