Prince Philip’s Secret Life in the Freemasons Uncovered
The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, kicked off his Freemasonry journey back in 1952 at just 31. He was initiated into the prestigious Navy Lodge No 2612 on 5 December that year.
His rise was swift. By 6 March 1953, Philip reached the Second Degree, then nailed the Third Degree on 4 May 1953. The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) officially certified him on 7 May 1953, and he stayed loyal to the brotherhood ever since.
Prince Philip: Naval Hero and Royal Pilot
Born in Corfu on 10 June 1921, Philip was the only son of Prince Andrew of Greece and Princess Alice of Battenberg. Holding titles of Prince of Greece and Denmark, he carved his own legacy in the Royal Navy starting in 1939 as a cadet.
Following family tradition—his grandfather was Admiral of the Fleet—Philip climbed to the rank of Commander. Not stopping there, he became the first Royal Family member to take off from Buckingham Palace in a helicopter, showcasing his pilot skills.
Navy Lodge’s Star-Studded Membership
The Navy Lodge boasts a glittering history and extraordinary members. It counts four monarchs among its ranks: King Edward VII, King Edward VIII, King George VI, and King George II of the Hellenes. Prince Philip often popped into meetings unannounced, proving his commitment to the fraternity.
Other notable Masons at Navy Lodge include three Victoria Cross winners, high-ranking Admirals, Generals, and famous explorers like Sir Ernest Shackleton and Robert “Scott of the Antarctic” Scott.
Royal Masons and Other Duke of Edinburgh Lodges
The Royal Family didn’t stop with Philip. The Duke of Kent is another high-profile Freemason, serving as the longest-running Grand Master of UGLE.
Interestingly, two other Duke of Edinburgh Lodges exist. One in Liverpool, No 1182, was founded in 1867 and named after Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, Queen Victoria’s second son. Another in London, No 1259, was consecrated in 1869, also honouring Prince Alfred.
Prince Philip’s deep ties to Freemasonry reveal a side of royal life rarely seen—blending tradition, service, and secrecy in one elite brotherhood.
