Kent Museum of Freemasonry, Canterbury

The Kent Museum of Freemasonry in Saint Peter’s Place offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Freemasonry. Established in 1933, the museum is located just a five‑minute stroll from Canterbury Cathedral and close to the iconic Westgate Towers - making it an unmissable stop on any local sightseeing route. Housed in a purpose‑built early 20th‑century facility, the museum was designed to showcase a remarkable collection of masonic artifacts contributed by lodges across Kent.

Inside, visitors are treated to one of the finest assemblages of Freemasonry memorabilia in the UK outside London. Highlights include rare original Anderson Constitutions from 1723, ancient Bibles dating back to 1588 and 1611, an Egyptian-style ceremonial maul, and even historic stained‑glass windows rescued from London’s old Freemasons’ Hall. The museum's displays span three millennia-from its medieval ancestral roots to the modern era-offering something for both casual visitors and history enthusiasts alike.

As an Arts Council–accredited institution, the museum not only preserves a diverse trove of paintings, glassware, textiles, manuscripts, and regalia but also tells the story of Freemasonry’s cultural and civic impact in Kent. The reimagined walk‑through format, introduced after a 2012 redevelopment, guides you through the evolution of rites, rituals, and the movement’s connections with local military lodges and notable Kentish members.

Open daily with free admission, wheelchair access, guided tours, and a charming gift shop, the Kent Museum of Freemasonry is a friendly and thought‑provoking stop on your Canterbury itinerary. Whether you're intrigued by secret societies, local history, or beautiful craftsmanship, this hidden gem invites you to explore the enduring mystery and legacy of Freemasonry in England.