Friday 30th January 2026 will long be remembered as one of those rare evenings where tradition, camaraderie, and sheer joy blended perfectly into one unforgettable celebration.
As one of the five keystone events shared annually by the HillTop Lodges, our Burns Night in Stow-on-the-Wold once again proved why it holds such a cherished place in our calendar.
We were honoured by the presence of our Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Ian Davis, our Deputy Provincial Grand Master VW Bro Mark Smith, and one of our Assistant Provincial Grand Masters W Bro Peter Watkins, each accompanied by their ladies. Their support and good humour added greatly to the occasion, and we were delighted to welcome them.
A Milestone Achievement for W Bro. Brian
Among the highlights of the evening was a moment of genuine pride for The HillTop Lodges. Our Provincial Grand Master, RW Bro Ian Davies, took to the floor to present W. Bro Brian Morris with his Prorsum Semper certificate and cuff links, awarded for successfully completing his Passport to the Province.
This remarkable accomplishment requires visiting every Freemason centre in the Province, a challenge that demands commitment, enthusiasm, and a deep love of Freemasonry. Brian has become the very first brother to achieve this milestone, setting a standard that will surely inspire many others to follow.
The room erupted in warm applause as Brian received his well‑earned recognition. It was a fitting tribute to a brother whose dedication embodies the spirit of our Lodge, and we could not be more proud of him.
A Parade to Remember
Having conducted our regular meeting, over 100 brethren, partners, and guests gathered in Church Street as the sound of pipes and drums rolled through the crisp evening air. With canapés in hand and spirits already high, we formed up behind the band and paraded en masse through the historic streets of Stow.
It was a sight to behold—colour, tartan, and smiles everywhere—drawing curious glances and warm waves from locals and visitors alike.
A Packed Hall and a Warm Welcome
St Edward’s Hall was filled to the rafters as our Worshipful Master and his Lady, Giles & Jen, welcomed everyone to dinner. Giles offered special congratulations to those who had embraced the Scottish spirit in full kilted splendour—some more convincingly than others, but all with enthusiasm!
The haggis was piped in with great ceremony by one of the Cheltenham pipers, and the traditional address was delivered with gusto. A magnificent supper followed, complete with all the trimmings that make Burns Night such a beloved ritual.
Music, Laughter, and a Touch of Magic
Throughout the evening, the pipe band played between speeches and presentations, filling the hall with a harmony that was at times stirring, at times moving, and always uplifting.
Bro Dave delivered the Immortal Memory with elegance and sincerity, reminding us why Burns’ words still resonate so deeply.
The toast to the lasses and laddies—expertly and amusingly delivered by the husband‑and‑wife duo John and Sue—had the room roaring with laughter.
And then came the singing.
If the roof of St Edward’s Hall is still intact, it is only thanks to the skill of its original builders. Over 100 voices belted out I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) and Sweet Caroline with such enthusiasm that even Burns himself might have raised an eyebrow—and perhaps a glass.
There was dancing, there was laughter, and there was that unmistakable sense of unity that makes evenings like this so special.
Supporting Local Good Causes
In addition to the fellowship and celebration, the evening also demonstrated the charitable spirit for which Freemasonry is well known. Through the generosity of those attending, a total of £600 was raised during the event. These funds will be donated to The Gloucestershire Provincial Festival 2029, ensuring that the positive impact of the evening extends well beyond the walls of St Edward’s Hall.
A Night to Carry Home
As the final notes faded and coats were gathered, guests spilled back into the night with a skip, a smile, and more than a few humming 500 Miles all the way home. It was, in every sense, a brilliant evening spent in wonderful company.
HillTop Burns Night 2026 reminded us once again that when we come together—brethren, families, and friends—we create moments that last far beyond the night itself.
Here’s to next year’s celebration, and to many more shared memories along the way.
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