most pubs in England do have refrigeration to keep their beer fresh. Refrigeration is essential for preserving the quality and taste of beer, especially for the modern varieties that have become prevalent in recent years.
However, it is worth noting that in the past, traditional pubs might not have had the same level of refrigeration as modern establishments. In those cases, they used various methods to keep their beer relatively cool and fresh:
Cellars: Traditional pubs often had cellars located below ground level, which provided a naturally cooler environment for storing casks of beer. The cool temperature in the cellar helped slow down the fermentation process and preserved the beer's quality.
Cooling Jackets: Some pubs used cooling jackets or wraps around the beer casks to maintain a cooler temperature. These jackets were often soaked in water, and as the water evaporated, it drew heat away from the beer, keeping it cool.
Ice: In hot weather, pubs could use ice to chill the beer temporarily. They might place ice around the casks or even directly in the beer to lower its temperature.
Fresh Deliveries: In the past, cask ale was more commonly served, and the turnover was higher, so the beer didn't stay in storage for extended periods. Frequent deliveries of fresh casks ensured that the beer served was relatively fresh.
It's important to emphasize that refrigeration has become the standard in modern pubs. Properly refrigerating beer helps maintain its quality and prevents spoilage, ensuring that customers are served a refreshing and enjoyable pint. As with any food or beverage, proper storage and handling are essential to ensure freshness and taste.