Annandale North covers a large rural expanse in the northeast of Dumfries and Galloway, bordering the administrative region of South Lanarkshire. Its landscape is characterised by rolling farmland and upland areas, with settlements like Moffat and Johnstonebridge serving as local hubs. The area is defined by major transport routes, including the A74(M) motorway and the West Coast Main Line, which traverse its length.
The ward's geography is significantly shaped by the River Annan, which flows southwards from its source near the Devil's Beef Tub, a deep glacial hollow steeped in local history. Economic activity is primarily agricultural, with forestry also playing a role on the higher ground. The terrain rises towards the Southern Uplands, creating a distinct transition from the valley floor to more remote, hilly pastures.