Lots of clubs in Sussex - I could go to one every evening of the week if I chose, without driving too far - and some of them are very good indeed, with a guest every week or every fortnight. On the whole, though, I do prefer sessions - and there are lots of those in the area as well - because I can get to play for a large part of the evening but, more importantly, sessions are a great way of learning new material to play. The standard of playing in sessions (around here at any rate) is very good, and it's primarily tunes that I'm interested in.

So, I don't think the clubs are in decline round here, but it all depends what floats your boat. For me, musical interaction with other players, strangers and friends, is a hugely enjoyable experience.