Norfolk was an enticing place to live in medieval times just as it is today, and the homes of some of the most important people in the country at that time can still be visited.

More than 20 castles were built in the county during the 10th and 11th century period.

Here we take a look at five castle ruins that hold the secrets to Norfolk's past.

1. Castle Acre

Thetford & Brandon Times: Castle Acre and its priory is a wonderful and educational day out the whole family can enjoy this spring Castle Acre and its priory is a wonderful and educational day out the whole family can enjoy this spring (Image: Newsquest)

The remains at Castle Acre is one of the largest and best-preserved monastic sites in the country.

Learn the history of the castle and priory, their importance in the kingdom and the lives of those who lived there.

Visitors can visit nearby Swaffham as well as have an amble on the Castle Acre Trail which runs along the river Nar and forms part of Peddars Way. 

Tickets for the castle can be booked on the English Heritage website.

2. Castle Rising

Thetford & Brandon Times: Castle Rising near King's Lynn will have you thrown back to the Middle Ages in a heartbeatCastle Rising near King's Lynn will have you thrown back to the Middle Ages in a heartbeat (Image: Ian Burt)

Once home to the widow of King Henry I, Castle Rising's 12 acres of grounds make it the perfect spot to have a picnic after exploring the Norman keep. 

READ MORE: What's the story behind these two remarkable medieval towers in Norwich?

Special events are often hosted on the ground including displays of medieval swordsmanship, archery and armour.

As an English Heritage site, members can visit for free, with open hours varying by season.

3. Burgh Castle

Thetford & Brandon Times: Lying on the mouth of the river Yare, Burgh Castle will have you in awe with its intricate brick and stone workLying on the mouth of the river Yare, Burgh Castle will have you in awe with its intricate brick and stone work (Image: Newsquest)

The oldest castle to feature in this list, Burgh Castle stands as a monument to Roman craftsmanship and ingenuity. 

As well as being one of the most well-preserved forts in the country, Burgh Castle is surrounded by the Breydon Water nature reserve which sees the confluence of rivers Yare, Bure and Waveney.

The castle is free to enjoy any time of the year, although we recommend you visit in the summer to get the most out of this historic monument.

4. Thetford Castle 

Thetford & Brandon Times: While lost somewhat to time, Thetford Castle remains a fascinating piece of historyWhile lost somewhat to time, Thetford Castle remains a fascinating piece of history (Image: Mike Page)

Thetford's motte-and-bailey castle is the second largest man-made mound in England, second only to Silbury Hill in Wiltshire.

Located on the site of an Iron Age hillfort created around 500 BC, historians believe the area was been used for fortifications for more than 2,000 years. 

READ MORE: 5 of the best wild swimming spots in Norfolk

Climb to the top on its new staircase and enjoy great views of the surrounding woodland and forests, some of England's oldest.

Entry is free year-round, with July being the best time to visit. 

5. Caister Castle 

Thetford & Brandon Times: Spend a day at Caister and visit this beautiful castle and tower Spend a day at Caister and visit this beautiful castle and tower (Image: Newsquest)

The remains of Caister's 15th-century brick-built castle are hard to miss, with its imposing tower and Norfolk red brickwork.

Caister Castle Motor Museum is also a must-see for petrolheads, homing 200 rare and vintage cars and motorcycles. 

Caister's Castle's intact 100ft tower can be scaled by visitors from May to September every year.