The Grand Tour: One Man, One Travelcard, One Epic Day

On Friday, 6th June 2025, our Provincial Grand Master, Philip Marshall, embarked on a bold and brilliant mission: to visit every Masonic hall in the Province of Nottinghamshire using only public transport—and his trusty Senior Citizen travel card. No chauffeur, no convoy. Just buses, trams, timetables, and the unwavering support of Ann. If Indiana Jones had a bus pass and a raincoat, this would be his sequel.

Setting Off in True British Style: With a Brolly and a Backpack

“A cool and rainy morning supported the start of our Grand Tour,” Philip writes, setting the scene with a tone only a seasoned traveller could muster. With umbrellas at the ready, enough food for a small expedition, and “medical supplies for most eventualities,” the journey officially began at 9:37 a.m. aboard the Rainbow 1 from Kimberley.

Their first few stops—Chilwell, Goldsmith Street, and West Bridgford—set the pace. Nottingham’s outer limits were no match for this determined duo.

But by the time they reached Newark, Retford, and Worksop, the real logistical tango began.

“It seemed that the next leg to Mansfield would be a challenge,” he admits, when discovering there was no direct bus from Worksop and the southbound options weren’t exactly frequent flyers.

Enter: the unsung hero of public transport—a “very pleasant and engaging employee” who crafted an escape route worthy of applause. (Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear hi-vis and know every bus timetable off by heart.)

A Warm Welcome and a Well-Earned Pint

After a long day navigating Nottinghamshire’s public transport jungle, they finally reached Mansfield, where a welcoming party greeted them. “We think the word had got out that we were in the area!” Philip joked. Either that, or the legend of their chocolate-fuelled bus tour had already gone viral.

And what better way to end the day than with a “celebratory beverage” at the very conveniently located pub next to Mansfield Masonic Hall. Some heroes ride into the sunset. Philip and Ann waited for the next bus and enjoyed a pint. Same difference.

A Grand Result for a Grand Cause

Total travel time: 8 hours and 37 minutes.

The closest guess came from Peter Gregory, who was just 10 minutes off with his prediction of 8 hours and 47 minutes—earning him the title of Grand Tour Time Guessing Champion, and winning a meal in the Corinthian Restaurant. Kevin Hyland followed closely behind with a guess of 8 hours and 12 minutes, just 25 minutes off, winning a luxury hamper.

And thanks to the generosity of all who took part in the sweepstake and supported the effort, a fantastic £1,430 was raised for the Nottinghamshire 2029 Festival.

Congratulations from everyone across the Province to Philip for his dedication, humour, and endurance—not to mention a remarkable commitment to public transport.