The other problem with real beer is you have to keep it properly. Many
'non-real ale' pubs keep bitters improperly or don't know how to keep
them, and it tastes terrible as a consequence. Lager on the other hand
is difficult to screw up, so it's easy to get the same bland taste every
time and consistently.

--

The other problem with real ale is that once it is ready to be drunk it
should be. Lager is sterilised and kept under pressure in it barrel which
extends its shelf life. Real beer needs to be drunk. Pubs with a good real
ale reputation earn it for selling beer in good condition. This is because
they have a good through put which means that the beer does not have time to
go off.
I am lucky the pub at the end of my road sells both draught Bass and
Pedigree via a proper pump engine.

I am spoilt for choice because after 6X these are my next two most favourite
beers.

cb