[3] The River Deben rises in the parish, and flows along a prolonged ford through the village.

[9] Village amenities and facilities include a post office, library, pharmacy, doctors' surgery, osteopath, a police station and fire station, cafes, a supermarket, a newsagents, green grocers, butcher, baker, florist and antiques dealer, and hardware and pottery outlets.

St Mary's Arts Exhibition started in 1976 and runs each year during the summer.

[citation needed] The local football club, Debenham LC is based at the village's leisure centre and plays in Division One of the Eastern Counties League.

[11] Debenham High School first opened in 1964 on Gracechurch Street and caters for 650 pupils aged 11–16.