Overton-on-Dee (Owrtyn in Welsh) as its name suggests is situated on the banks of the River Dee and is located between Wrexham in Wales to the north and Ellesmere in Shropshire, England to the south. Overton is not to be mistaken for the nearby villages of Little Overton and Overton Bridge.

Overton is part of that little piece of Wales that projects into North West England known as the Maelor. The maelor is split into two parts, that part west of the River Dee is Maelor Gymraeg (Welsh Maelor) and the part east of the River Dee, in which sits Overton, is Maelor Saesneg (English Maelor). The village enjoys magnificent views towards Llangollen and the Welsh hills.

Village Centre

The village centre is a conservation area and features many interesting historical listed buildings, a number of small shops, places to get a bite to eat and an excellent public house. Overton is proud of its heritage and indeed the village was granted a Royal Charter by Edward 1 in the year 1292. Visitors and those coming to live in this delightful village are always made to feel welcome. Overton is home to the Church of St Mary the Virgin renowned for its ancient churchyard yew trees, one of the 'Seven Wonders of Wales' and estimated to be between 1500 and 2000 years old.

There is a picnic area adjacent to the church where visitors can join the Maelor Way, a 25 mile long footpath.

Walks, Cycle Trails and Other Activities

Many walks criss-cross the landscape of this historic exclave known as the maelor. Little border villages invite exploration with their ruined castles and ancient churches, one minute you are in Wales, the next its England. Alternatively, simply stroll along the banks of the beautiful River Dee. The Maelor Way weaves its way through Overton en-route from the Shropshire Way at Grindley Brook and through to the banks of the River Dee before joining the Offa's Dyke Path in the Ceiriog Valley.