In glorious sunshine building a bivouac would have been enough of a challenge yet in the adverse climate we managed to create vital cover to escape the deluge.
With survival at stake it was now a race against time to purify filthy, brown ditchwater into something safe enough to drink.
Thankfully it was left to our intrepid park ranger Elliot to sample the sludgy delights of our endeavours as my wife and I headed for a far more life-affirming G&T in the nearby bar.
This was survival with a twist as we immersed ourselves in the fantastic Nature Rockz programme at Haven’s Thornwick Bay holiday park.
Situated on the peninsula of East Yorkshire’s Flamborough Cliffs nature reserve, this “country park by the sea” nestled between the traditional bustling seaside town of Bridlington and quaint resort of Filey, Thornwick Bay is a hidden gem on this dramatic coastline.
It is easy to see why Haven has invested £10million to create a holiday park with a difference.
With seven-year-old Cub Scout Oliver, 9, and Girl Guide Amelie, 13, in tow it was a delight to see them indulge in outdoor activities.
We were taught how to make a fire, did fossil casting, explored sea caves and the incredible geology of the area and recreated cave art.
During a three-mile headland trek to Bempton Cliffs RSPB Sanctuary, with its imposing 260ft cliffs, we discovered they are home to many seabird breeding colonies including kittiwakes, gannets and lots of puffins.
The secluded bays beneath the campsite are perfect for sea fishing from the beach and spotting marine mammals such as porpoise and seals while crab nets are essential for rock pooling.
Mid-holiday I decided some white-knuckle excitement might ramp up the adrenaline levels, prompting my daughter and me to learn to ride a Segway.
Expecting a lengthy preparation I was surprised to find myself riding along the rugged coastal path within minutes of stepping onto the footplate.
It was a truly exhilarating “bucket list” experience but it took me a while to gradually pluck up the courage to go full-throttle and chase my fearless offspring.
Taking mountain bikes on the same trail the following day was equally enjoyable, save for it being much harder work going uphill.
Like anywhere in Britain there are few guarantees of glorious sunshine but during a week-long stay at Thornwick Bay we experienced the best and worst of the UK climate.
With clear skies the area really is your oyster but when the rain struck we were so spoilt with options we had no need to venture off-piste.
The renovated swimming pool complex, boasting three pools, slides, water jets and a baby pool is an obvious destination but a jam-packed activity programme also offers (among other delights) kayaking, archery, rifle-shooting, fencing and five-a-side football.
We stayed in a Prestige caravan enjoying the luxury of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and spacious lounge area.
Camping of course lends itself to firing up a barbecue but The Lighthouse Restaurant in the heart of the complex caters for almost every taste and with a speciality in wood-fired pizzas, it offers the perfect excuse not to have to.
Within walking distance in the village of Flamborough there are pubs and more extensive offerings 10-minutes’ drive by car in Filey along with what is in my opinion, the nation’s best fish and chips restaurant Inghams.
At Thornwick Bay, the nightly cabaret-style entertainment won me over with its sheer exuberance proving a massive hit with all ages.
But our two much preferred wrapping up in front of the outdoor cinema which they complemented perfectly by tucking into a fish supper under the stars while their parents, worn out with all the fresh air, gently dozed. Bliss.
______________________________________________________________________________
Haven (0333 202 5250/haven. com) offers four nights in deluxe accommodation at Thornwick Bay from £99, (six sharing), self-catering. Price includes kids clubs and family entertainment. Activity bundles, from £50 for 10 passes. Yorkshire Tourist board: yorkshire.com
