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Wayward Wanderers Society, Knebworth (2026)

14/05/2026

As we head back to Hertfordshire, we wish to send a huge thank you to the Brethren of Lodge Peebles Kilwinning No.24 for such a warm and memorable visit.

Although the ritual was quite different from what we are used to in English Freemasonry, it was conducted to a very high standard and was a pleasure to witness.

Congratulations to Bro. Stewart on being raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason — a truly special occasion to be part of.

Special thanks must also go to Worshipful Master David Johnston for the exceptionally personal welcome extended to each of us. The hospitality shown throughout the evening was greatly appreciated and made us feel immediately at home.

We very much enjoyed the informal harmony after the meeting, which provided a wonderful atmosphere of friendship and good humour. The musical entertainment was excellent throughout, particularly Bro Robin Wilson’s brilliant performance of Rudyard Kipling’s “The Mother Lodge”, along with further songs from Bro Henry White and the Stewart Brothers.

Our trip was rounded off perfectly with a fascinating and enjoyable visit to Rosslyn Chapel, which was a fitting end to a wonderful experience in Scotland.

Finally, sincere thanks to David and Richard for kindly picking us up from and dropping us back at Edinburgh Waverley — your help and generosity were greatly appreciated.

A thoroughly enjoyable visit all round, and we look forward to meeting again in the future.

27/03/2026

The Wayward Wanderers Society is a spirited collective of Hertfordshire Freemasons fueled by a passion for "Brotherhood on the road." Founded with a distinct sense of adventure and a long-term vision, the group has set itself an ambitious and unprecedented goal: to visit a Masonic Lodge in every single Province across England, Wales, and Scotland.

The Wanderers aim to bridge geographical divides and strengthen the bonds of the Craft through shared ritual and fellowship. Our mission isn't just about the miles traveled; it’s about experiencing the unique local traditions and history that vary from one Province to the next.

22/03/2026

On 20th February we visited Newcastle upon Tyne Lodge No. 24.

In every sense, it was a memorable and dignified occasion—one that balanced tradition, ceremony, and genuine camaraderie in equal measure.
From the outset, there was a palpable sense of history attached to the evening. Lodge No. 24 is among the oldest in the region, with roots stretching back to at least the early 19th century, and often regarded as one of the longstanding lodges within the Province of Northumberland . That heritage was clearly felt throughout the proceedings, lending an added weight and significance to the installation itself.

The ceremony was conducted with precision and confidence, reflecting both the experience of the installing officers and the commitment of the brethren. Installations are, by their nature, steeped in symbolism and ritual, and this one was no exception—carried out with a level of care that made it engaging even for those who have witnessed many before. There was a strong sense of continuity, of traditions being upheld while still maintaining a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

What stood out most, however, was the spirit of fellowship. As has long been noted in accounts of Lodge No. 24 installations—even dating back to the 19th century—the combination of formal ceremony followed by warm social gathering is a defining feature . This continues today: the festive board that followed the installation was lively without being overbearing, offering the perfect setting for conversation, reflection, and shared enjoyment.

The newly installed Worshipful Master, W.Bro Dave Rylance, carried himself with composure and humility, setting a positive tone for the year ahead. The support shown by past masters and visiting brethren alike reinforced the strength of the lodge’s community, and it was clear that this is a lodge that values both its traditions and its members.

In summary, the installation at Newcastle Lodge No. 24 was a thoroughly enjoyable and well-executed event—rich in heritage, conducted with professionalism, and rounded off with genuine warmth and hospitality. It serves as a fine example of what Freemasonry at its best can look like: respectful of its past, engaged in the present, and optimistic for the future.

15/01/2026

Bearsted lodge no.6069 in the province of east Kent.
On Monday 12th January a contingent made up of Darren Corbett, Ben Francis, Alan Perschky, Keith Raw and Peter Lee attended an initiation at Bearsted lodge 6069. The meeting was held at Maidstone Masonic centre in Tovil Maidstone. A modern building with facilities aimed at other markets besides freemasonry.
Catering at this venue is provided by a contractor. The venue had a fantastic dressing area with plenty of space and nice case storage. We were shown both temples, one of which was set up as a chapter. One thing we did notice was as nice as the temples were, there was no carpet, instead the floor was made up of the relevant colour hard floor tiles, not that it detracted for the venue or ritual but an observation none the less.

We were greeted and met by many members and visitors alike, a very welcoming reception and friendly environment.
After signing in and getting prepared we took our seats in the temple. There was unfortunately no organist however the lodge utilised pre recorded music via a small PA system. The lodge is a small lodge and relies on visitor support with many of its offices held by dark blues but the deacons offices both held by light blues and with the initiation hopefully bodes well for their future. The meeting itself was very nice with the working tools delivered by the senior deacon were exceptional for which he received justly deserved applause and support.

During the risings our own W.Bro Darren Corbett stood, followed by the rest of Knebworth lodge visitors and brought fraternal greetings on behalf of our own Worshipful Master Tony Young and all the brethren of Knebworth lodge, wishing the Worshipful Master and his members well.

In the absence of an organist we departed the temple to the theme of “the great escape” which did make us laugh.

After a short spell in the bar the festive board began. The welcome, the food and the laughs didn’t end. With the obligatory toasts and speeches for the initiate. Then came the toasts to the visitors, and whilst there were I believe 20 visitors we as a group were thanked and praised for our journey. The reply to the visitors was given excellently by our own Keith Raw with sincerity and laughter. At the end of the festive board the worshipful master asked all brethren to remain seated so we could take a couple of photos for our memories and we also joined in their photos.

One thing that did grab our attention was “the travelling Gavel” an ornamental gavel that is awarded to the lodge that brings the most visiting members (per capita) to another lodge's meeting. Designed to encourage a bit of competition within a group of lodges and to in turn gain more visitors and support to meetings. Brief rules were, a lodge can only hold the gavel once in the Masonic year, the holding lodge decide and publicise which meeting they choose to put the gavel up for grabs, which is there so logically they would put it up on a meeting they may otherwise struggle to fill with visitors. It was a great item within the meeting and certainly got visitors excited. Unfortunately we did not qualify to enter, however, had we been allowed to, even with five members in attendance we wouldn’t have won, which in turn shows how successful that initiative is.

A great evening was had by all and we believe a contingent from Bearsted lodge will be attending our installation meeting in April potentially accompanied by a provincial officer from East Kent.

If any brother has any questions or would like to know more please chat to one of us, but more importantly come along to the next one.

12/01/2026

Great afternoon and evening with Bearsted Lodge 6069. Great company
With Keith Raw Peter Lee Ben Francis Darren Corbett Alan Perschky

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Knebworth

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