British tours for those who enjoy the countryside

Britain's Countrywide Holidays Association, organized in 1891, was founded for -- and still provides 90 years later -- vacation opportunities for people who enjoy the countryside, clean, clear air, comfortable quarters without unnecessary luxury, home cooking, and good companionship.

In fact, this -- and more -- is offered during Saturday-to-Saturday stays at inclusive prices that are amazingly good value.

The Countrywide Holidays experience is just what one would expect to find available in Britain: individualistic, yet social vacations that are well planned and well organized without being "packaged." Indeed, CHA specifically offers opportunities for relaxed exploration on foot of the countryside which package tours so often exclude.

The week-long vacations are headquartered at 21 country houses scattered throughout England, Wales, and Scotland which have been converted into gracious centers for from 50 to 70 guests. A difficulty is selecting a single one of these historic, charming, and beautifully situated sites. After all, how does one decide among Abbey House at Whitby on the Yorkshire coast, next door to the ancient abbey ruins of St. Hilda; Loughrigg Brow, a peaceful country home with magnificent views, quiet gardens, and croquet lawn at Ambleside, in the Lake District National Park; Creag Mhor at Onich, overlooking beautiful Loch Linnhe in the Scottish Highlands; Orielton Hall, at Barmouth on Cardigan Bay in West Wales, within easy walking distance of some of the finest beaches in Britain and only a short excursion from majestic Mt. Snowdon; or, set high on a Cornish hill with panoramic views of the sea, Fowey Hall, the most magnificent building in the picturesque fishing village that shares its name?

During a stay at any center there is the freedom to join in guided excursions or go your own way, returning in the evening to dine with fellow guests and share in informal social events.

Prices, which vary according to center and season, per person per week, including full board, range from $184 to $220 -- using $2.40 US to the British pound.Bargain round trip rail fares from London to most centers are offered. The singleroom supplement is only $18 for the week, and the atmosphere of a CHA vacation is particularly well suited for those traveling alone.

For complete details, write Countrywide Holidays Association, Birch Heys, Cromwell Range, Manchester, Lancashire MI47DJ, England.