Sky1 has given the green-light to Inside The Freemasons, a four-part documentary series which will give an in-depth look at the secret society and what it means to be a Freemason in the modern age, TVWise has learned.

Inside The Freemasons, which will air this Winter in the run up to the 300th anniversary of the group in 2017, will uncover the truth behind the ancient rituals and closely-guarded practices of the organisation, featuring footage of ceremonies, which have never been seen before on television. Viewers will also learn the truth behind the regalia, the jewels, the handshakes and the symbolic working tools as they get to know Masons from all walks of life.

The four-part documentary series is being produced by independent production company Emporium Productions, who have secured unprecedented access to the United Grand Lodge of England and its Lodges all over the country. Emma Read is the executive producer.

“With over 200,000 members across England and Wales, the Freemasons is a fascinating organisation that the general public don’t really know much about”, said Siobhan Mulholland, Sky’s Commissioning Editor for Factual. “We can’t wait to use this unique access to show Sky customers the real Freemasons as we look at little known history and traditions,determining myth from truth.”

“We’re thrilled to have been given such unprecedented access to the hidden world of the Freemasons to make a documentary series”, added Emma Read, executive producer for Emporium Productions. “Most people are familiar with Freemasons as an organisation, but few actually know who they are, what ‘Lodge life’ is really like and why men join in the 21st Century.”