News for the Traveler (2)

England's elegant homes and gardens are the focus of three two-week tours specifically designed to take advantage of the seasonal attractions of the places visited. There are two spring departures, May 6 and May 27 1983, for tours of the Thames River, Salisbury, Taunton, Bournemouth, and Haselmere areas. Houses visited include Stratfield Saye, Wilton House, Brympton d'Vercy, Beaulieu Abbey, and Arundel.

In the summer, a June 17 departure is for visits to the Hertfordshire, Cambridge, Nottingham, Shrewsbury, Tewkesbury and Surrey areas. The houses include Luton Hoo, Harfield House, Burghley House, Chatsworth, and Suddley Castle. The final departure will be Sept. 2, for the Oxford, Leicester, Lincoln, York, Chester, Worcester, and Egham areas. Houses visited include Blenheim Palace, Newstead Abbey, Castle Howard (of ''Brideshead Revisited''), and Harewood House.

Groups are limited to 35, including accompanying escort and lecturer. Hotels are selected for their historic atmosphere and elegance. Inclusive land price (accommodations, all meals, ground transportation, etc., is $2,350 per person, double occupancy. For details and a brochure, write Valron Tours, 85 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, N.Y. 11761.