For more than a century, the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association (AFLA) has been a unique feature of London Freemasonry: a fellowship of Lodges and Chapters under the United Grand Lodge of England bound not by geography, but by the international character of their membership and the languages in which they work. From its earliest beginnings in the cosmopolitan bustle of Edwardian London, AFLA has been a meeting point for brethren from across Europe, the Mediterranean, the Americas, Africa, and beyond, united by the conviction that the principles of the Craft transcend national borders.
The Association’s origins lie in 1903, when W. Bro. Major John W. Woodall, then Grand Treasurer, met with senior brethren from four foreign-language Lodges in London: Pilgrim Lodge No. 238 (German-speaking), La France No. 2060 and L’Entente Cordiale No. 2796 (French-speaking), and Italia No. 2687 (Italian-speaking). Their vision was simple but ambitious: to create an International Masonic Club where the different linguistic and cultural traditions working under the English Constitution could meet on common ground, strengthen their mutual ties, and maintain contact with recognised Lodges abroad.
The Club was formally launched at the Café Royal in Regent Street in March 1904. It quickly prospered, drawing members from the diplomatic corps, merchant communities, the arts, and the professions, and by 1910 it counted more than 200 members. That year, under the patronage of the Pro Grand Master, Lord Ampthill, and the Deputy Grand Master, Sir Frederick Halsey, the International Masonic Club adopted a new and enduring name: the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association. Its purpose? To strengthen bonds of friendship between English Freemasonry and its international brethren. A goal which has remained constant ever since.
Over the decades, AFLA has welcomed Lodges reflecting the rich and intricate life of London’s immigrant and expatriate community: America Lodge No. 3368 for the transatlantic community; Deutschland Lodge No. 3315 and Helvetica Lodge No. 4894 for German- and Swiss-born brethren; Anglo-Dutch Lodge No. 5862 for the wartime partnership between Britain and the Netherlands; Hellenic Lodge No. 7270 and Kypros Lodge No. 8595 for the Greek and Cypriot diasporas; and many more. Today, its membership extends to Lodges and Royal Arch Chapters with Italian, French, German, Greek, Cypriot, Turkish, Brazilian, American, Swiss, and Anglo-Colonial traditions, as well as those whose identity is rooted in a spirit of cross-cultural fellowship rather than a single nationality.
Throughout its history, AFLA has not only celebrated the diversity of its constituent Lodges, but also provided a platform for them to work together; hosting biennial Reunions, visiting each other’s meetings, and on occasion presenting ceremonial workings from their respective traditions in English. In doing so, the Association has remained true to the vision of its founders: to uphold the landmarks of the Craft while allowing each Lodge the freedom to express its heritage, language, and culture within the brotherhood of English Freemasonry.
Today, the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association stands as a living proof to the belief that Masonry’s cornerstone of brotherly love is strongest when it binds together brethren from many lands. AFLA continues to foster friendships that cross frontiers, languages, and generations: a strong and lasting link between London and the wider Masonic world.
1904 Founding Lodges of the International Masonic Club
(the predecessor of AFLA)
Pilgrim Lodge No. 238 🇩🇪
Founded in 1779 in London, during the reign of King George III, Pilgrim Lodge is one of the oldest German-speaking societies in the British capital and a cornerstone of the AFLA’s heritage. Its earliest members were drawn from the close Hanoverian connections at the Court of St James, alongside German merchants and professionals already established in London. In its first decades, the Lodge worked the Zinnendorf Ritual, a distinctly Christian rite, before adopting the Schroeder Ritual in the 19th century, which it continues to use today. Over more than 240 years, its Benevolent Fund has supported charities in the UK, Germany, and abroad, contributing to causes from disaster relief to elderly and medical care. Today, with some 50 brethren aged from their thirties to their nineties, Pilgrim Lodge remains united by brotherly principles, the German language, and a shared bond with London and Great Britain.
La France Lodge No. 2060 🇫🇷
Founded in 1884, La France No. 2060 is one of London’s oldest and most distinguished lodges under the United Grand Lodge of England, with an unbroken tradition of working in the French language for over 140 years. Established at a time when London was a crossroads of international trade, diplomacy, and culture, our lodge became a focal point for francophone Freemasons, primarily diplomats, chefs, scholars, and travellers, who sought a home of brotherhood in the British capital. La France has preserved its unique ritual heritage, rooted in the Emulation working yet enriched with continental traditions without shying away from its original ritual. A translation by Bro. Henri Bué of the English Ritual was presented and the work of the Lodge to this day is carried out in French. Today, La France continues to welcome brethren from all walks of life, bound together by the French language, commitment to Masonry, and respect for history.
L’Entente Cordiale Lodge No. 2796 🇫🇷
The Lodge was consecrated in 1900 with a clear purpose: to embody, within the Craft, the spirit of friendship between England and France. In the years before the diplomatic agreement that would give them their name, they were already uniting English-speaking and French-speaking brethren in London, drawing members from diplomacy, commerce, the arts, and the armed forces. They saw members serve with distinction on both sides of the Channel. Today, the Lodge meets at Freemasons’ Hall, conducting their ceremonies in English, enriched by a heritage steeped in Franco-British friendship. They continue to live the values set out by their founders: charity, moral improvement, and an enduring bond across borders.
Italia Lodge No. 2687 🇮🇹
Consecrated on 17th March 1898 at the Cecil Hotel in London, Loggia Italia was founded to serve the capital’s growing Italian community, many of whom had arrived in the 19th century and settled in Clerkenwell’s “Little Italy.” Sponsored by Rothesay Lodge No. 1687, it was granted permission by the United Grand Lodge of England to work in both English and Italian, reflecting its bicultural roots. The Lodge’s emblem, bearing the rose of the Master Mason, the Five Points of Fellowship, and the flags of the United Kingdom and Italy, proclaims its motto: Unity and Strength. Italia Lodge played a central role in 1904 in forming the International Club, which evolved into today’s Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association. Among its treasured possessions is a ceremonial sword once belonging to Giuseppe Garibaldi, Grand Master of the Grand Orient of Italy, presented in 1907. Twice forced to pause during wartime, the Lodge resumed work in 1948, now strong of more than 90 members across the UK and the Bel Paese.
Joining Members of the International Masonic Club
America Lodge No. 3368 🇺🇸
Consecrated in London in 1909, America Lodge was founded by members of the United States Embassy and Consulate staff who sought to continue their Masonic journey while stationed far from home. In an era when returning to the United States for a meeting meant a long and often perilous sea voyage, the Lodge offered American brethren a regular forum for fellowship, using the Emulation Ritual to unify members from diverse Masonic traditions across the States. A proud early member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association, America Lodge became a bridge between American and English Masonry, strengthening fraternal bonds across the Atlantic for much of the 20th century.
Deutschland Lodge No. 3315 🇩🇪
Founded in London in 1908, Deutschland Lodge brought together German-speaking Freemasons who wished to work under the English Constitution while preserving their language and cultural traditions. Like its sister lodge Pilgrim, it provided a fraternal home for expatriates, merchants, and professionals from across the German-speaking world, meeting in the heart of the capital and working a ritual in their native tongue. A valued early member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association, Deutschland Lodge fostered close ties with Lodges in Germany and continental Europe until its Warrant was surrendered in 1955, marking the end of nearly half a century of distinctive Masonic work.
Post-1910 Joining Members of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association (AFLA)
Helvetica Lodge No. 4894 🇨🇭
Consecrated on 8th March 1927, Helvetica Lodge was founded to serve the many Swiss brethren living and working in London during the early 20th century. Its name and character proudly reflect its close ties with the Grand Lodge Alpina of Switzerland, and over the decades it has become a distinguished centre of Anglo-Swiss Masonic friendship. From its earliest days, the Lodge has welcomed both English and Swiss members, working in a multilingual way, to serve the Craft in the best traditions of the United Grand Lodge of England while preserving a strong fraternal link to its Alpine heritage. It has maintained a proud charitable tradition, supporting both Masonic and non-Masonic causes and earning multiple Grand Charity patronages.
Anglo Colonial Lodge No. 3175 🇬🇧
Consecrated on 20 July 1906 under a Warrant dated 19 June of that year, the Anglo-Colonial Lodge was born at the height of Britain’s imperial reach, its very name reflecting the international scope of its early membership. Founded in London as a Masonic home for brethren who had lived, worked, or served across the British colonies, the Lodge drew together men from the worlds of colonial administration, the armed forces, commerce, and missionary and engineering enterprises overseas. Today, Anglo-Colonial Lodge stands as a living link between London Freemasonry and its global heritage, welcoming brethren from all backgrounds while remaining true to the spirit of international fellowship on which it was founded.
Anglo American Lodge No. 2191 🇺🇸
A historic meeting place for Masons from the US and the UK, Anglo-American combines the ritual excellence of the English tradition with a warm, transatlantic camaraderie. The Anglo-American Lodge was established to foster closer ties between English and American Freemasons in London. From its earliest days, it brought together brethren from both sides of the Atlantic, uniting them in fellowship and shared Masonic values. Its membership has long included diplomats, business leaders, and expatriates seeking a familiar fraternal home while abroad. Working the Emulation Ritual, the Lodge blends English traditions with a warm American spirit, making it a natural and valued member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges
Hellenic Lodge No. 7270 🇬🇷
Consecrated on 23rd September 1953, Hellenic Lodge was established to unite brethren of Greek heritage and those with an affinity for Hellenic culture under the Constitution of the United Grand Lodge of England. Its founding reflected the post-war growth of London’s Greek community and the desire to celebrate the values of Freemasonry through the lens of classical tradition and fraternal hospitality. Over the decades, the Lodge has remained a focal point for Anglo-Hellenic Masonic friendship, welcoming members from across the Greek diaspora and beyond. Hellenic Lodge continues to uphold its mission of brotherhood “in the spirit of ancient wisdom and modern fellowship.”.
Reunion & Fellowship Lodge No. 5625 🇫🇷
Consecrated in the aftermath of the Second World War, Reunion & Fellowship Lodge was founded with a vision true to its name: to bring together brethren from diverse backgrounds in a spirit of mutual respect and fraternal unity. Although associated with La France Lodge No. 2060 and L’Entente Cordiale Lodge No. 2796 in an informal “trio” of French-linked Lodges, it has never worked in the French language, instead welcoming members from across the English-speaking international community. Over the decades, the Lodge has forged lasting connections both at home and abroad, often serving as a bridge between cultures within the United Grand Lodge of England. A proud member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association, it has played a prominent role in the biennial AFLA Reunions, most recently in 2024 as the Banner Lodge, hosting Hiram Lodge of Vienna to present an Austrian working of the First Degree in English.
Kypros Lodge No. 8595 🇬🇷🇨🇾
Consecrated on 30th September 1974, Kypros Lodge was founded to serve as a Masonic home for brethren with ties to the island of Cyprus, whether by heritage, residence, or friendship. Its name, Kypros, the Greek for Cyprus, reflects both its cultural inspiration and its enduring connection to the island’s history. Established in the wake of a turbulent period for Cyprus, the Lodge is a meeting place for those who valued fraternity across borders, bringing together Cypriot, British, and international Freemasons under the UGLE. Since its consecration, Kypros Lodge has maintained its dual commitment to preserving cultural identity and upholding the universal principles of Freemasonry, welcoming members from all walks of life while honouring its Mediterranean roots.
Venables Llewelyn Lodge No. 3756 🏴
Consecrated in 1915 and named in honour of the Venables-Llewelyn family, prominent figures in the history of Glamorgan, Venables Llewelyn Lodge has proudly upheld Welsh Masonic traditions for over a century. Meeting at the Masonic Temple on New Road in the seaside town of Porthcawl, they draw their membership from across South Wales and beyond, combining the warmth of a close-knit community with the formality of the Craft. The Lodge’s history is closely tied to the civic and social life of the region, with generations of members serving their communities in public service, commerce, and the arts. A proud member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association, Venables Llewelyn brings a distinctly Welsh voice to the Association’s international fellowship, embodying the values of hospitality, friendship, and service that are hallmarks of both Wales and Masonry.
Hodford Manor Lodge No. 6084 🇬🇷🇨🇾
Consecrated on 9th July 1945, Hodford Manor Lodge was founded in the hopeful summer that followed the end of the Second World War in Europe. Its membership was shaped by brethren of Greek and Cypriot heritage, many of whom had settled in London’s vibrant Hellenic community. From its earliest meetings, Hodford Manor embraced an ethos of unity across cultures, welcoming brethren from a variety of backgrounds. Today, Hodford Manor Lodge remains a proud meeting place where the timeless principles of Freemasonry are enriched by Mediterranean friendship and fellowship.
Chartered Accountants Lodge No. 3162 🇮🇹
Consecrated on 27 June 1906 under a Warrant granted that April, the Chartered Accountants Lodge was originally founded to unite members of the accountancy profession in the bonds of Freemasonry. Its early years reflected the precision, integrity, and fellowship that characterise the profession it was named for, attracting brethren from London’s growing community of auditors, bookkeepers, and financial experts. Over the decades, the lodge’s character broadened while retaining its professional heritage, evolving into a vibrant centre for Italian-speaking Freemasons in London. Meetings blend the discipline of the craft of accountancy with the warmth, conviviality, and cultural pride of the Italian Masonic tradition. This dual identity, professional and cultural, has helped sustain the lodge’s growth and relevance for more than a century.
United Arts Rifles Lodge No. 3817 🇧🇷
Founded in 1917 and originally associated with the volunteer regiment of the same name, United Arts Rifles Lodge carried forward a proud martial tradition through much of the 20th century. By 2019, however, the Lodge was facing closure… until a group of nineteen Brazilian Freemasons stepped forward to preserve its warrant and give it a new life. Some had been initiated in Brazil, others in England, but all shared a determination to build a new chapter for the Lodge under the United Grand Lodge of England. Despite the disruption of the pandemic, they expanded rapidly, initiating ten brethren, including five on the same day, and building strong links with the Masonic community in Brazil through online lectures in Portuguese. Their reputation grew across the Atlantic, culminating in the joining of several distinguished brethren, among them R.W. Bro Aldo Coutinho, Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Rio Grande do Norte. Meetings today are marked by a unique blend of English Masonic tradition and Brazilian warmth, often concluded with a Brazilian-style Festive Board. Now firmly established as the Brazilian Lodge within the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association, United Arts Rifles continues to unite brethren from both hemispheres in friendship, charity, and the spirit of the Craft.
Peace and Hope Lodge No. 5925 🇹🇷
Consecrated on 31st January 1944 at Freemasons’ Hall in London, Peace and Hope Lodge was founded in the closing chapters of the Second World War, its name chosen to embody the optimism and resolve of those who looked beyond the conflict towards a brighter future. Throughout its history, the Lodge has maintained a warm and intimate character, with meetings marked by conviviality and mutual support. Most recently, its membership has been enriched by a strong Turkish influence, making it a Turkish member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association, also its newest member.
Anglo-Dutch Chapter No. 5862 🇬🇧🇳🇱
Consecrated on 4th May 1948, Anglo-Dutch Chapter is the Mother Chapter of Royal Arch Masonry in the Netherlands, a unique position that reflects its enduring role in building Masonic bridges across national borders. It has long served as a link between the Supreme Grand Chapter of England and the Supreme Grand Chapter of the Netherlands. In April 2022, the Chapter hosted a flagship “Welcome Project” event at Freemasons’ Hall, with the Metropolitan Grand Stewards Chapter Demonstration Team performing an Exaltation in the presence of a full delegation from the Netherlands, including the First, Second, and Third Grand Principals. Such occasions exemplify the Chapter’s mission: to unite Companions from both countries in the enjoyment of Royal Arch Masonry, and to deepen the indissoluble link between Craft and Royal Arch across cultures.
Filia Unitatis Chapter No. 4658
Constituted on the 8th of November 1961, Filia Unitatis, Latin for “Daughter of Unity”, was founded to extend the spirit of harmony and fellowship from the Craft into the Royal Arch. Its name reflects both its mission and its practice: to unite Companions of diverse backgrounds in the shared mysteries and fellowship of the Royal Arch. Over the past century, Filia Unitatis has upheld the ceremonial traditions of the Order with dignity, while also fostering a warm and inclusive environment that welcomes new Exaltees into the deeper teachings of Freemasonry. As a proud member of the Anglo-Foreign Lodges Association’s Royal Arch contingent, the Chapter has played its part in strengthening the link between Craft and Royal Arch Masonry within an international setting.
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