The uplands of this district are bounded by the low alluvial plain of Sedgemoor on the east, by the lower basin of the Exe on the south, by the basin of the Taw (in part) on the west, and by the Bristol Channel on the north.
The Exe, Barle, Lyn and other streams, traversing deep picturesque valleys except in their uppermost courses, are in favour with trout fishermen.
It is situated in the narrow vale of the river Creedy near its junction with the Exe, between two steep hills, and is divided into two parts, the east or old town and the west or new town.
The upper town is built on high ground along the left bank of the Exe, and a bridge leads to the lower town, named West Exe.
In the south-west there is a fairly extensive lowland in south Devonshire watered by the Exe in its lower course.