Malone ward lies in the southern part of Belfast, characterised by residential streets and educational institutions. The area is anchored by the expansive grounds of Queen's University's student village and the playing fields of Malone Rugby Club. It is primarily a place of housing and academic life, with a mix of detached homes, university accommodations, and local shops serving the community.
The ward is defined by the Malone Road, a long thoroughfare running through its centre. A notable local landmark is the Barnett's Park area, with its distinctive obelisk memorial. The residential feel is interspersed with several churches and smaller green spaces, contributing to a quieter atmosphere compared to the city centre directly to the north.