Each year, the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), together with Metropolitan, Provincial and District Grand Lodges, supports the Freemasons’ National Service of Remembrance.
The Service honours members of the Armed Forces and those who have served, reflecting Freemasonry’s ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and to remembrance across the nation.
Upcoming Service
📅 31 October 2026
📍 National Memorial Arboretum
Hosted by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Derbyshire
Further information is available in the FAQs below.
Previous Services
2025 Service of Remembrance
📍 National Memorial Arboretum
In November 2025, UGLE supported Metropolitan Grand Lodge of London in hosting the Freemasons’ National Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum.
The service brought together Freemasons from across the Constitution to honour members of the Armed Forces and reflect on the values of duty, service and remembrance.
🔗 Read more about the 2025 Service and view images from the day
United by Service
Connecting Our Armed Forces Community
United by Service is our dedicated Armed Forces newsletter, available to members who wish to stay connected with the Armed Forces community within Freemasonry. It shares relevant news, stories, and updates that highlight service, shared experiences, and ongoing initiatives. Members can sign up to receive United by Service and stay informed about the latest developments and features from across the Armed Forces network. To sign up, you will need your Grand Lodge Certificate number, which is available on Portal.
Guided by duty, camaraderie, and a shared sense of service, Freemasons have long stood alongside the men and women of the Armed Forces. From quiet lodges abroad to formal support initiatives at home, their commitment honours those who serve and the families who stand by them.
Watch this video to discover the enduring support Freemasons provide to the Armed Forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Event and Arrival
When and where is the Service?
Saturday 31 October 2026 at 12 noon at the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire DE13 7AR.
Who can attend?
Everyone is welcome. Freemasons, families and friends may attend. The Service is free, but please book in advance so that an Order of Service can be provided.
How do I book?
Book online at: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/provincialgrandcharityofderbyshire/2211018
What time should I arrive?
The Gardens open at 10.00 am. You are welcome to visit other memorials or enjoy the café before the Service. The band will play from 11.30 am, when you may wish to find a good viewing position.
What should I do on arrival?
Go to the main entrance. The Freemasons’ Reception Desk will be to the right of the main reception. Please report there and collect your Order of Service or envelope.
What will I receive at Freemasons’ Reception?
Service only attendees will receive an Order of Service. Those booked for the Official Lunch will receive an envelope containing their Order of Service and dining information.
Parking
How much is parking?
Parking costs £8 on the day or £5 if prebooked. Prebooking is recommended.
Where do I prebook parking?
The Service
Where should I stand?
The first part of the Service takes place outside the Aspects Building. Please choose a suitable viewing point. Before the procession begins, you will be invited to move to the outside of the Masonic Garden. The hedge is approximately three feet high, allowing the congregation to observe the Act of Remembrance. Please follow steward directions.
What will the Service include?
A traditional Service of Remembrance accompanied by a band, including readings, prayers, the Exhortation, Last Post, Two Minute Silence, Reveille and wreath laying.
Will I be able to hear the Service?
Yes. All speakers will be amplified, with linked speaker systems outside the Aspects Building and at the Masonic Garden so that the Service can be heard in both locations.
What should I wear?
The Service is outdoors, so please dress appropriately for potentially inclement weather. Freemasons may wear their Masonic collar and jewel. Those entitled may instead wear military dress and decorations. Masonic and military dress or jewels must not be mixed.
Can a serving member carry a Masonic banner in military uniform?
No. Masonic Banner Bearers should not wear military uniform. Masonic and military identities should remain distinct and should not be confused in the minds of observers.
What should Banner or Standard Bearers do if it rains?
Protect your banner or standard from the elements. Consider bringing a clear waterproof plastic cover or bag that can be fitted and removed easily.
Wreaths and Procession
Can I lay a wreath?
Yes. You will be invited to join the rear of the procession. Enter the Masonic Garden and proceed clockwise. A steward will take and place your wreath. Continue clockwise, exit the Garden and move to a suitable vantage point outside to observe the Act of Remembrance and Two Minute Silence.
Provincial Guests and Standard Bearers
I am a Provincial Grand Master or Grand Superintendent. Where do I go?
Report to the Freemasons’ Reception Desk, collect your envelope and make your way to the Aspects Building. Complete the contents of your envelope as required and follow the instructions provided.
I am a Standard Bearer. What do I do?
Report to the Freemasons’ Reception Desk, collect your envelope and make your way to the Aspects Building. Complete the contents of your envelope as required and follow the instructions provided.
After the Service
I have booked the Official Lunch. Where do I go?
At the conclusion of the Service, make your way to the Aspects Building and follow the dining information in your envelope.
Can I still book the Official Lunch?
Yes, subject to availability. Lunch costs £26 per person and is open to friends and family. Book at: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/provincialgrandcharityofderbyshire/2211018
What else can I do after the Service?
You may visit the café or spend time exploring the other memorials and areas of remembrance throughout the Gardens.
Join Freemasonry today
Locate your local lodge where you live, work or study.
International lookup by area