Prince Philip’s Secret Life as a Freemason Revealed!
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Freemasonry Journey
The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, kicked off his Masonic life in 1952 at age 31. On 5 December, he was initiated into the prestigious Navy Lodge No. 2612. Just months later, he rapidly climbed the ranks—reaching the Second Degree on 6 March 1953 and the Third Degree by 4 May 1953. The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) officially issued his Grand Lodge Certificate on 7 May 1953, cementing his lifelong membership.
Royal Roots and Naval Legacy
Born in Corfu in 1921, Prince Philip was the only son of Prince Andrew of Greece and Princess Alice of Battenberg, also carrying the titles Prince of Greece and Denmark. He followed a proud naval tradition, joining the Royal Navy as a cadet in 1939, inspired by his grandfather, Prince Louis—Admiral of the Fleet. Philip enjoyed a distinguished naval career, retiring as a Commander. Not just a sailor, he was also a qualified pilot and famously became the first Royal Family member to take off from Buckingham Palace by helicopter.
Inside Navy Lodge’s Exclusive Circle
The Navy Lodge boasts a glittering history with four monarchs on its rolls: King Edward VII, King Edward VIII, King George VI, and King George II of the Hellenes. Prince Philip was known to drop into lodge meetings without notice, showing his genuine commitment. The lodge counts numerous illustrious members, including Admirals, Generals, and heroes like Sir Ernest Shackleton and ‘Scott of the Antarctic’ Robert Scott. It even boasts three Victoria Cross winners among its ranks.
Freemasonry and the Royal Family
Prince Philip wasn’t the only royal Mason. The Duke of Kent, the longest-serving Grand Master of the UGLE, is also a member. There are other lodges named after the Duke of Edinburgh, including one in Liverpool (No. 1182), consecrated in 1867, named for Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, Queen Victoria’s second son. Another is in London (No. 1259), opened in 1869. Across the board, freemasonry runs deep in royal bloodlines.
Beyond Freemasonry, the Duke of Edinburgh was a patron or president of over 800 organisations. His passions spanned scientific research, sport, youth welfare, and environmental conservation—truly a royal with a mission.
