A bit of thread drift (but it keeps you up the page)

I was interested in that 'out of our area' so looked on a Google map. Rochester to Tunbridge Wells is 25 miles (50 mins) by A roads or 37 miles (46 mins) using the M25.
Things are different outside London.

We travel 18 miles and 35 miles most weeks to dance clubs (30 mins & 1 hour), the one 40 miles away feels a bit too far so we only go occassionally.
For calling anything under 30 mins drive feels like a rare treat. 50 miles is the point where I start saying 'twist my arm if you can't find anyone nearer'

I believe that dance gypsies in the States travel much further.

Friday night gigs are the worst for travelling. If you leave early to give yourself plenty of time you get caught up in the rush hour (M6 in my case). And if some of the band have to get home from work, eat and change before dashing out to get in and set up you're frazzled before you start. And the dancers may also be not at their best if they've travelled after work.