Warrant Dated 2nd June 1785 • Province of Middlesex

Welcome to the
Lodge of Harmony
No. 255

The oldest Masonic lodge in Middlesex, founded at Hampton Court and meeting in Twickenham for over two centuries. Semper Idem — Always the Same.

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1785
Warrant Dated
1st
Oldest lodge in Middlesex
255
Lodge number under UGLE
4
Meetings per year

Lodge of Harmony is the oldest lodge in Middlesex; lodge numbers are not an indication of a lodge’s age. Numbers have been swapped, sold, bought, and transferred over the years.

A Lodge Rooted in History, Open to the Future

Lodge of Harmony No. 255 was consecrated on 2nd June 1785 at The Toy Inn, a hostelry adjoining Hampton Court Palace. It was founded by Thomas Dunckerley — a celebrated Freemason who was Provincial Grand Master of nine provinces and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in 18th-century English Freemasonry.

Today the lodge meets at the Twickenham District Masonic Centre on London Road — a short walk from Twickenham station. We welcome visitors and enquiries from anyone interested in Freemasonry, regardless of their background or experience.

The lodge motto, Semper Idem — Always the Same — reflects our commitment to the enduring values of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

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Members of the lodge in fellowship
"The Lodge of Harmony was established in 1785, just 68 years after the first Grand Lodge, and predates both the storming of the Bastille and the Battle of Waterloo."
— Lodge of Harmony No. 255
"A commemorative plaque, erected in 1933, remains fixed to the wall of Hampton Court Palace's main gate, recording the lodge's founding at The Toy Inn."
— London Remembers & Lodge records

What We Offer

Freemasonry at Lodge of Harmony brings together fellowship, charitable purpose, and centuries of tradition.

Fellowship & Brotherhood

Regular meetings bring together members from all walks of life. Meetings include formal lodge proceedings and a dinner, providing time for genuine friendship and conversation. Lodge of Instruction evenings on intervening Tuesdays offer further opportunities to learn and participate.

About the lodge

Charitable Purpose

Freemasonry in England and Wales is one of the country's largest charitable givers. Lodge of Harmony supports fundraising at local, national, and international levels. The Masonic Charitable Foundation distributes substantial sums annually, including significant support for non-Masonic causes.

About Freemasonry

History & Tradition

As the oldest lodge in the Province of Middlesex, we carry a remarkable heritage. Our past includes the composer Sir Arthur Sullivan, who was initiated here in 1865, and our founding connection to Hampton Court Palace, where our commemorative plaque still stands.

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Notable Member

Sir Arthur Sullivan

The celebrated composer of the Gilbert & Sullivan operettas was initiated into Lodge of Harmony No. 255 on 11 April 1865. It was through his Masonic connections at this lodge that Sullivan was introduced to W.S. Gilbert, laying the foundation for one of the most celebrated partnerships in the history of British music.

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When We Meet

Regular meetings are held four times a year. Visitors are always welcome.

January

3rd Tuesday — approx. 4–10 pm

March

3rd Tuesday — approx. 4–10 pm

May

3rd Tuesday — approx. 4–10 pm

October

3rd Tuesday — approx. 4–10 pm

Lodge of Instruction evenings take place on intervening Tuesdays, as ceremonial requirements dictate.

Venue & Directions

Thinking of Joining?

If you are curious about Freemasonry or the Lodge of Harmony, we encourage you to get in touch. There is no obligation, and no question is too basic. Candidates come forward of their own free will — we do not solicit membership.

  • Open to men of good character aged 21 or over
  • All professions, backgrounds and nationalities welcome
  • A belief in a Supreme Being is required
  • Visitors always welcome at regular meetings
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