To think I’m not being a Scrooge about this leaving do

[lastqueenofscotland]

An acquaintance is moving to Australia, we used to be quite close a while ago but over the last few years have drifted apart a bit, for context it was my birthday last week and they didn’t get in touch to wish me a happy birthday. I don’t mind but just for context that we aren’t mega close.

Another friend who is much closer to them is organising their leaving do. They have decided on Alton Towers.
I really really really hate roller coasters, and theme parks. I went to Alton towers a few years ago for a friends birthday and really didn’t enjoy the rides. I’d have been game for anything else but I really don’t want to go and pay however much it costs to get in. I’m one of the few people in this group of friends with a car so I suspect I’ll be pressured to drive people there.

The lady organising it is switching between making me out to be a misery guts or trying to convince me it will be fun anyway.
AIBU to use a mumsnet classic “no is a complete sentence” and not engage any further in it or am I being a bore

I don't get why anyone would spend a lot of money doing something they hate! Even if she was a great friend I would still agree you shouldn't go.

Have no guilt in sticking to your guns and saying no!

When is it? You can collect vouchers from the sun from sometime in March to get free tickets (well, cost of papers) but wouldn't be able to get ticket until May I guess.

You are definitely not being unreasonable to say no!

I would personally hate that and would not go.

If she brings it up just laugh and say oh this is getting so awkward you keep forgetting I’ve clearly said I’m not going.

Of course you can say no. Sounds ghastly. If you feel a desperate need to send them off arrange a few drinks at a pub (and then watch all takers for Alton Towers drop off in favour of the pub) If she mentions it just tell her they make you sick, and suggest the pub idea.
I

What a weird thing to organise as a leaving do.

I couldn’t think of anything worse, I hate theme parks with a passion, how old is the person leaving ? it just seems a very immature thing to organise, how the hell can you chat to the person leaving on a rollercoaster I thought most people scream rather than have a conversation 30 feet up in the air.

They being the rides not the people (no pun intended)

Rach it’s jn a couple of weeks

I'd say no and not give a single fuck about any whining.

Egg the lady organising it is in her 40s!

Hideous idea. That's a repeated no from me. And a every time she asks again.

True ShatnersWig but would you pay £56 to go and look at some gardens?

No, I'd buy my ticket online and pay £36. Some NT properties are now nearing £20.

Not for me either.

Anyone else remember visiting it before the rides?

Of course you don't have to go. You don't have to do anything you don't want to!

Why would you go on an expensive day out doing something you don't like for someone who doesn't even remember your birthday?

I remember going in the autumn when the rides were closed. Truly beautiful and peaceful. Some years ago now, mind.

Op when you say they are going in a few weeks I assume you mean after 23rd March as the park isn't open until then