Four London Lodges formed the premier Grand Lodge in London in 1717, there were also other Grand Lodges which came into existence after this date, also claiming jurisdiction over Freemasonry in England and Wales.

In 1813 the two leading Grand Lodges came together to form the United Grand Lodge of England. Since its inception The United Grand Lodge of England soon become the leading and governing body for Freemasonry, not only in England and Wales but also in many overseas districts. Also being the starting point for Freemasonry in many other countries, which have since established constitutions and Grand Lodges of their own.