About us

Holmes Lodge No. 2571 is about strong fellowship, pride in tradition, and a welcoming spirit. It combines the enduring values of Freemasonry with a close-knit atmosphere where Brethren support one another, enjoy each other’s company, and take genuine pride in belonging.

What makes it special is its identity and continuity since 1895, giving members a real connection to generations who have gone before them. It is not simply a Lodge that meets—it is a Lodge with history, character, and loyalty, where friendships are lasting and members feel they are part of something meaningful.

Compared with many Lodges, Holmes Lodge’s strength lies in its sense of belonging: warm companionship, respect for tradition, and Brethren who care about preserving the Lodge while ensuring it remains relevant for the future.

So, put simply: Holmes Lodge is a proud historic Lodge where friendship and tradition matter just as much as ritual.

We meet at 7pm on the 4th Wednesday of:

  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • September
  • October [Installation Meeting]

The most important thing potential new members or visitors should know about Holmes Lodge No. 2571 is that it offers far more than monthly meetings—it offers friendship, belonging, personal growth, and being part of a respected tradition.

At its heart, Holmes Lodge is a place where men from different backgrounds come together as equals, build lasting friendships, and support one another. Visitors and new members are usually struck by the warm welcome, the sense of camaraderie, and the fact that members genuinely enjoy each other’s company both inside and outside the Lodge.

In terms of activities, Holmes Lodge would typically hold regular Lodge meetings featuring Masonic ceremonies, degree work, and formal business, but the social side is equally important. These often include festive boards or dinners after meetings, social gatherings, charity events, family occasions, and opportunities to meet Brethren from other Lodges. Many members find these friendships and shared experiences to be one of the greatest rewards of membership.

The main benefits of joining include:

  • Friendship and fellowship – becoming part of a close and supportive circle.
  • Personal development – confidence, public speaking, organisation, and leadership opportunities.
  • Tradition and purpose – belonging to an organisation with history, values, and meaning.
  • Charitable work – helping others locally and nationally.
  • A sense of belonging – being part of something bigger than yourself.

What makes Holmes Lodge especially appealing is likely its blend of historic character with a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere. It is a Lodge where newcomers can feel welcome, valued, and involved rather than just spectators.

So in simple terms: Holmes Lodge offers good company, strong values, enjoyable social life, and the chance to grow while making lifelong friends.

Beyond the ordinary

Brother Guy Smith, currently Worshipful Master of Holmes Lodge Number 2571, which meets at Byker Masonic Hall, took on 200-mile run for charity in memory of a mother lost to Alzheimer’s.

Guy visited every Masonic Temple in Northumberland as part of the journey, raising funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

He said: "I’ve mapped it at around 197 miles, but with fatigue, navigation challenges, and the inevitable detours, it will break the 200-mile mark. "I’ll be running through day and night, grabbing power naps where I can. "It’s going to be tough, but I know why I’m doing it."

A seasoned ultra-marathon runner, Guy set off from Berwick Masonic Hall on Monday, September 2, immediately after attending a lodge meeting. He travelled down the Northumberland coast, through North Tyneside and the Tyne Valley, before finishing in Haltwhistle.

His long-distance running began more than 20 years ago when he completed the Great North Run to raise funds for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund in memory of a friend. Since then, he has completed numerous marathons and ultra-marathons, including the 100-mile Castle-to-Castle race from Bamburgh to Edinburgh.

This latest challenge is especially personal. In January, he lost his mother to Alzheimer’s, a disease affecting nearly one million people in the UK. He said: "Mum touched so many lives and losing her so quickly to Alzheimer’s was devastating. "Anyone who has witnessed it knows how cruel it is. "That’s why I’ve chosen Alzheimer’s Research UK as the beneficiary of this challenge.

"My fundraising target is £3,000, and I’ve already raised nearly £5,000." He completed the route in just four days, and then joined thousands of others in the Great North Run the following day.

Guy said: "It might sound mad, but running has given me purpose, better health, and a way to give back. "This is about honouring Mum, raising awareness, and hopefully inspiring others to push themselves for a cause they care about."