About the Lodge
About Gosport Lodge No. 903
The oldest Lodge in Gosport, with members who are dedicated to Freemasonry — and to one another.
Our history
Standing the test of time since 1861
Gosport Lodge is the oldest Lodge in Gosport, having stood the test of time since 1861. Gosport was a military town manning the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and the Army. Gosport Lodge was formed to fulfil the desire of like-minded men, both serving and civilian, to nurture camaraderie and the values of Freemasonry — and that's still the case today. Over the years, as numbers grew, daughter lodges were formed and have served many thousands of members.
Gosport Lodge first met in local public houses and hotels. As it grew and the numbers swelled, it outgrew these and a more suitable place had to be found. The Masonic Hall in Clarence Road was purchased. Over further years the surrounding properties were acquired and now form the Gosport Masonic Centre, where eight Craft lodges meet alongside other Masonic companion orders.
The Lodge has developed into a buoyant, forward-looking lodge with members who are dedicated to Freemasonry — a Lodge that men gravitate to, and one that naturally thrives to attract members.
Our members
Ordinary men, doing good work, in good company
Our diverse group of gents, ranging from young professionals to wise retirees, share laughs over a few drinks as we swap stories, debate ideas, and cheer each other on. It's a place of friendship and self-improvement, where members bring out the best in one another. With us you'll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere and lively discussion. We always have a great time at our meetings and events — whether we're having a barbecue in the summer, a charity night with friends and family, or taking part in our time-honoured traditions.
There's a real feeling of community here among our members, where we look after each other like family. We're just ordinary guys who enjoy each other's company while bettering ourselves and doing good work. When you join us, you'll be continuing a proud centuries-old tradition of friendship. But don't worry — we're not stuck in the past. You'll find our values of integrity, charity and self-improvement are as relevant today as ever.
Our four values
How we put our values to work
United Grand Lodge sets out four values for Freemasons everywhere — Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service. At Gosport Lodge, those values shape four building blocks we live by:
Integrity → Empowering Members
Becoming the best version of ourselves, with mentorship and honest conversation. The Mason's word is his bond.
Friendship → Fostering Camaraderie
Trust, kinship, laughter, the lasting kind of friendship. The pulse of the Lodge.
Respect → Building a Vibrant Lodge
Welcoming men of every background and faith, and making sure every member has a place to grow.
Service → Making a Difference
Charity at the heart of what we do — locally in Gosport, across the Province, and beyond.
Our home
The Gosport Masonic Centre
Our home on Clarence Road blends the historic and the welcoming — a Lodge Room little changed in generations, and comfortable spaces to relax in, including our own Square & Compass Bar, opened in 2024.
For visiting Masons & first-time guests
What to expect at a meeting
Lodge meetings come in two parts. The first is administrative — proposing and balloting for new members, charity reports, Lodge business. The second focuses on a ceremony, often the admittance of a new member or the installation of the Master and his officers.
Members typically arrive from 6pm for tea and conversation. The meeting itself begins promptly thereafter. Once business is concluded, we adjourn to the Festive Board — dining, toasts, and a great deal of laughter.
Visiting from another Lodge? Please contact the Secretary in advance so we can let the Tyler know to expect you, and ensure a place at the Festive Board.
Did you know?
Meetings, in three degrees
A Mason's progression is marked by three traditional ceremonies — Initiation (becoming an Entered Apprentice), Passing (becoming a Fellowcraft), and Raising (becoming a Master Mason). Each is months apart, and full membership of the Craft is the third.
The Province
Hampshire and Isle of Wight
Gosport Lodge No. 903 sits within the Province of Hampshire and Isle of Wight — one of the largest Provinces under the United Grand Lodge of England. The Province coordinates Masonic activity across the county, supports its Lodges, and runs the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Masonic Charity, which channels members' giving to local causes.
Want to come and see for yourself?
The best way to learn what Gosport Lodge is really like is to come along to one of our social events. Drop us a line — there's no commitment.
Start a conversation