Originally the capstan stood open to the elements and was used for hauling the boats ashore in Sennen Cove, Cornwall. The roundhouse construction was built around the winch in 1876 with the first floor somewhere the fishermen could go to mend and dry out their nets. The capstan is believed to have originated from a local mine when some mechanical parts were sold off.

The building has been restored and now houses an art gallery and souvenir shop. Local artists exhibit in the roundhouse covering a wide range of subjects including paintings, photographs, ceramics, jewellery and sculpture from all over Cornwall.

The roundhouse is open daily from 10am until 6pm and gift vouchers are available for purchase.