Moomin 80

To celebrate 80 years of the Moomins, Counterpoints Arts and Moomin Characters Ltd have joined forces to build a very special Moominhouse here in the South Bank.

Tove Jansson’s Moomin stories are beloved for their inclusive and welcoming spirit, with themes of safety, love and family at their heart.

The first Moomin story is 1945’s The Moomins and the Great Flood, which was penned by Tove Jansson during WWII as a fairytale to comfort herself during dark times. The story mirrors the realities of millions of displaced people seeking refuge.

The story follows Moominmamma and Moomintroll on a quest to find the missing Moominpappa and a home where they can live together again. They endure several challenges along the way, including a huge flood, before finally finding themselves in what will become known as Moominvalley. There stands a tall blue house—a joyful place where everyone is welcome, whoever they are, whenever they come and wherever they come from.

The Moominhouse is a symbol of security, shelter and a sense of belonging. These are timeless, universal needs—true today as they were 80 years ago. It is that special place that is reinterpreted here for the book's anniversary and as a centre point for Southbank Centre’s Refugee Week 2025 events.

The Moominhouse is open for exploration between 2pm and 5pm each day (no ticket required).

You can also come along and chop wood, hammer nails, get creative and build to your heart’s content as the team brings the house to life every morning in the Play, Make, Dream sessions – book here (ages 4+).

From Afghan Valleys to Moominvalley

Wed 28 May – Fri 30 May
Be inspired by the beauty of the Afghan valleys and Moominvalley to create your own piece of art in a workshop led by artist Nabil Amini.

Grab a piece of foam and get printing! Create your own piece of art to take home with you and add a piece to the big communal make, adorning the Moominhouse outside on the Riverside Terrace. Ages 4-11, entrance is free and no booking is required.