The pub building dates from the mid to late 17th century, with 19th and 20th century alterations.

In 1861, the pub was listed at Stuston Common.

"My name is Mr J Eve, I live at the Old Swan, as have my family for the past 31 years. I have a correction for you. the brew house next door was always called the Nutshell up until a property developer thought it would improve the resale value and changed it. SO, No brewery in Stuston. All the beer was delivered and stored in the lowered back room for serving through the old hatch."

(The existence of an "old brew-house" behind the pub building had suggested to us that it may have brewed its own beers at some time. Interestingly, the Listed Buildings Register also describes the building concerned as "originally probably a brewhouse to…