Freemasons' Hall, London: A Majestic Art Deco Memorial and Masonic Headquarters
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
Freemasons' Hall in London is a striking Art Deco building completed in 1933 as a memorial to Freemasons who died in World War I. Located at 60 Great Queen Street, it serves as the headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England and houses the Museum of Freemasonry. The building features grand ceremonial spaces like the vast Grand Temple, intricate mosaics, and symbolic bronze doors, and offers public guided tours revealing its rich history and Masonic heritage.
A brief summary to Freemasons Hall, London
- 60 Great Queen St, London, WC2B 5AZ, GB
- +442078319811
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the building's history and Masonic symbolism.
- Check the schedule online for tour times and availability, as tours only run when the Grand Temple is not in use.
- Bring photographic ID if you plan to join a guided tour, as it may be required for entry.
- Wear comfortable shoes as tours involve walking and standing for up to an hour.
- Explore the Museum of Freemasonry inside the hall to see unique artifacts including historic regalia and documents.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Holborn station, approximately 300 meters from Freemasons' Hall. The walk is about 5 minutes along Kingsway and Great Queen Street. Holborn is served by Central and Piccadilly lines, with frequent trains and step-free access available.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Great Queen Street, including routes 8, 25, and 242. Bus services run frequently throughout the day, with journey times varying depending on your starting point. Buses provide a convenient option for visitors preferring surface transport.
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Taxi / Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you off directly outside Freemasons' Hall on Great Queen Street. Travel times vary by traffic but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Note that parking is limited in the area.
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Walking
If staying in central London, Freemasons' Hall is within walking distance from Covent Garden and Holborn areas. Walking times range from 10 to 20 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets, suitable for most visitors.
Freemasons Hall, London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Freemasons Hall, London
Historic Roots and Architectural Grandeur
Freemasons' Hall stands on Great Queen Street in London, a site dedicated to Masonic meetings since 1775. The current building, completed in 1933, is the third hall on this site and was designed by architects Henry Victor Ashley and F. Winton Newman in the distinctive Art Deco style. It was originally named the Masonic Peace Memorial, built as a tribute to the 3,225 Freemasons who lost their lives during the First World War. The hall is a Grade II* listed building, celebrated for its architectural significance and its preservation of Art Deco interiors and exteriors.The Grand Temple and Symbolic Design
At the heart of the hall lies the Grand Temple, a vast ceremonial space measuring 123 feet long, 90 feet wide, and 62 feet high, capable of seating 1,700 visitors. The temple is renowned for its intricate mosaic ceiling, crafted by Italian artisans, which features Masonic symbolism such as seven stars representing the liberal arts and a starry sky ceiling symbolizing stonemasons meeting under open skies. The temple’s floor is adorned with a chequerboard carpet central to Masonic rituals. The immense bronze doors, weighing over three tonnes and decorated with scenes from Solomon’s Temple and figures like Moses and St George, are engineering marvels that open with a gentle push.A Living Memorial and Cultural Venue
Freemasons' Hall functions not only as a Masonic headquarters but also as a memorial to fallen Freemasons and a vibrant cultural venue. It hosts Masonic events, concerts, recitals, and has been a filming location for notable productions such as James Bond's Spectre and Sherlock Holmes. The hall’s walls bear plaques commemorating Freemasons awarded the Victoria Cross and other honors. Visitors can explore the Museum of Freemasonry within the hall, which houses artifacts including Winston Churchill’s Masonic regalia and the original 1723 Constitutions of Freemasonry.Public Access and Guided Experiences
The hall welcomes the public through scheduled guided tours that reveal the history of Freemasonry from its origins in 1717 to its global spread. Tours include visits to the Museum of Freemasonry and the Grand Temple, showcasing the building’s art, symbolism, and ceremonial spaces. The tours last approximately 55 minutes and are conducted Tuesday to Saturday. The building is accessible via lift, with some walking and standing required. Admission to the hall and museum is free, though some specialized tours may have a fee.Art Deco Masterpiece and Symbolic Craftsmanship
Freemasons' Hall is one of London’s finest examples of Art Deco architecture, featuring exquisite mosaics, stained glass, bronze lighting, and painted ceilings. The building’s design draws inspiration from Roman, Egyptian, Greek, and Syrian motifs, reflecting the deep historical and symbolic roots of Freemasonry. The ceiling mosaics include representations of the four cardinal virtues and the arms of Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, who was instrumental in the hall’s creation.Significance and Legacy
Freemasons' Hall remains a beacon for Freemasons and visitors alike, embodying centuries of Masonic tradition and history. It stands as a solemn memorial, a cultural landmark, and a functional meeting place for Masonic lodges. The hall’s blend of architectural beauty, rich symbolism, and historical artifacts offers a unique insight into the world of Freemasonry and its enduring influence in London and beyond.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bow St
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Plaque: David Garrick
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Strand
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St Giles in the Fields
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National Trust - Strand Lane "Roman Bath"
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King's College Chapel
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Agatha Christie memorial
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St Clement Danes Church
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Unmissable attractions to see
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London Guided Walks
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Drury Lane Gardens
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Bow Street Police Museum
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Fortune Theatre
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Royal Ballet and Opera
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Experience world-class ballet and opera in the historic and stunning Royal Opera House at London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
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Experience London's oldest theatre site, where 350 years of theatrical history come alive in a stunning 1812 West End landmark.
Princess Louise
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Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
Peacock Theatre
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covent Garden ,
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Neal St
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The Old Curiosity Shop
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Aldwych Theatre
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London Film Museum
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Essential places to dine
Margot
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Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Sarastro
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Circus
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Balthazar
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Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Chez Antoinette
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Palm Court Brasserie
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Clos Maggiore
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Rules
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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Pop Boutique
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Urban Outfitters
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Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Good
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Floral Street
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
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The Escapologist Bar
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All Bar One Covent Garden
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American Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
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The Roxy
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The Ivy Club
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Proud Late
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Club49Soho
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La Capannina Club
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Zoo Bar & Club
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Heaven
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Versity Camp Nightclub
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The Box Soho
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St Moritz Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
