Northland is a residential area situated on the northern edge of Derry city centre, primarily composed of Victorian and Edwardian terraced housing. The ward slopes down towards the River Foyle, offering views across the water. It is a central location containing several schools and community facilities, with its main thoroughfares providing direct access to the city's commercial core. The area has a strong local identity centred around its historic street grid and established neighbourhoods.
A notable local landmark is the Brooke Park facility, which includes recreational grounds and a restored Victorian conservatory. The ward is also home to the large, modern North West Regional College campus on its northern boundary, serving further education students from across the city and district. Residential streets here are typically quiet, with the area functioning as a settled community close to urban amenities without being part of the main retail centre.