In the Earle Arms in Heydon, deepest Norfolk (before it became a nasty foodie pub) they served real ale from a keg on a bench behind the bar. So it was at room temperature, and as there was a wood fire in winter, it was quite a warm room. The ale was something to die for, and not in the least cold, so the flavour was very 'up front'. They had Reepham XXX, a local brew, and a few others I can't remember (perhaps Woodforde, although that is rather too sweet for my taste). The great thing was that like all true real ales, the kegs varied, and the flavour couldn't be predicted exactly. But if you left it too long in front of you it went flat of course. Now the place is full of wealthy types ordering fine wines and nouvelle cuisine poncy sort of food. The farm men and local 'old boys' have vanished. Sigh...