Who are we?
A Lodge of Installed and Past Masters drawn from (mainly) Durham-based Craft Lodges. As the name of the Lodge implies, members MUST either be ‘in the Chair’ of another Craft Lodge or have served as such.
What we do
Meet 3 times each year to hear talks on Masonic-related topics from a variety of high-profile speakers arranged by a ‘Lecture Master.’ Each year, the newly-installed Worshipful Master is also expected to deliver a Masonic-related talk on a subject of his own choosing, immediately following his Installation and the appointment of his Officers. Following meetings, a traditional Festive Board includes table-planned seating with waiter service and the usual loyal and Masonic toasts. Visitors are usually ‘hosted’ by a member.
Why join us?
Enjoy the otherwise ‘non-challenging’ experience of listening rather than ‘doing’ and always in the company of (mostly) senior and highly-experienced Masons.
When we meet
2nd Fridays in March and June and 2nd Thursday in September (Installation). Meetings usually start at 6.30pm.
Fees
Joining fee: None.
Lodge subscriptions: £45 * **
Typical dining fee: £15
*Installed Masters Lodges benefit from lower annual subscription rates because members are deemed to have already paid relevant UGLE dues via their main Craft Lodge subscription(s).
**Members who, for any reason, cease to or do not subscribe to any other Craft Lodge, are required to pay an additional annual fee prescribed by UGLE, currently £62.
Contact
Parking:
Ample car parking in adjacent ‘pay and display’ public facility. Free after 6pm and to ‘blue badge’ holders.
Approach:
Somewhat unobtrusive ‘slip road’ entry off dual carriageway near town’s “Bondgate” roundabout becoming a one-way system to and from car park.
Entrance:
Wide door, wheelchair accessible.
Emergency:
Illuminated emergency exits on all floors. Diagrams of emergency escape routes are posted throughout the building and on the information TV. Smoke detectors are installed at the relevant points throughout the building.
We also have a defibrillator adjacent to the front door which is also accessible to the public.
Accessibility:
Close to Town Centre on its northern side, near commercial buildings and one of the Town’s (long stay) public car parks. Clearly signed as “Freemasons’ Hall” when seen from nearby dual carriageway. Wheelchair access at main entrance and at (rear) ‘service’ entrance by arrangement. Controlled entry via a somewhat unobtrusive ‘plain’ door with handrail and ramp.
Toilets:
Accessible toilets.
Inside:
Entrance ’lobby’ with access to ground floor facilities which include smart Lounge/bar, superb large dining room, cloakrooms and toilets (inc disabled). Lodge room seating 90 (approx) upstairs with extra chairs brought in when needed. Small ‘robing room’ for Grand Officers doubles as a local ‘museum.’ Attendance registration table immediately outside Lodge Room entrance.
Stairs/Lifts:
Stairs with ‘half-landing’ and handrails and/or lift provide access to upper floor.
