Turbocharged rally cars are taking over Chester today (Friday, October 28).

A great atmosphere is expected in the city centre as Wales Rally GB returns for the first time since 1995.

Seeing ultra-quick 300hp machines dart around the historic streets is not something we get to see every day.

There will also be a chance to get up close to some of the best drivers in the world.

Here is everything you need to know if your plans are not already made:

When and where can I watch?

The action is expected to rev up from 4pm onwards.

You will probably hear the cars before you see them, but there should be some great vantage points.

Their main stop will be in Eastgate Street, but the route takes the cars on a quick tour of Chester city centre.

Map of Chester streets for Rally GB

Here there will be a chance for autographs and photos.

The first international drivers will arrive around 6pm and the town crier will be on hand to formally welcome the rally back to Chester at 7.20pm.

There will be street entertainments and the commentators in the city from 3pm to keep the crowds entertained.

Best of all, it is totally FREE.

Who will be on show?

The phenomenal Sébastien Ogier is the star attraction.

The Frenchman sealed his fourth WRC title by winning the Rally of Spain earlier this month.

World champion Sebastien Ogier of France and Julien Ingrassia of France compete for Volkswagen in the Wales Rally GB 'shakedown' on October 27

British interest comes with Northern Ireland’s Kris Meeke, who has won in Portugal and Finland this season, as well as Welshman Elfyn Evans.

Other contenders to win this weekend include Andreas Mikkelsen, Thierry Neuville and Daniel Sordo.

Of course the cars themselves are also a sight to see and they are not your typical Ford Fiestas and Volkswagen Polos.

Super lightweight with more than 300hp, the booming roars and cracks of their engines will delight any crowd.

Which roads will be closed?

Bridge Street, Eastgate Street, Northgate Street and Watergate Street will be shut from 10.30am through to 10pm.

Foregate Street, St John Street and St Werburgh Street are all affected from 1pm to midnight.

Please bear in mind some city centre car parks will also be closed.

Full details can be found below.

What is the history of Rally GB in Chester?

While the rally has not been to the city in more than 20 years, Chester can claim to have been the setting for a massive moment in British motorsport history.

The late Colin McRae became World Champion at the racecourse in 1995.

Never shy of putting on a show, the Scot pulled some memorable donuts in the enclosures.

Colin McRae and Derek Ringer on top of their Subaru Impreza 555 celebrate winning their home Rally for the first time on the podium at a packed Chester Racecourse in 1995
Colin McRae and Derek Ringer on top of their Subaru Impreza 555 celebrate winning their home Rally for the first time on the podium at a packed Chester Racecourse in 1995

What else can I see?

The competitive side of Wales Rally GB takes place across North Wales over the weekend.

This side of the border, the action moves to Cholmondeley Castle for an exciting RallyFest on Saturday.

Designed for the casual fan, it is perfect for families and people wanting to see the action, but who also want a full range of entertainment and great facilities.

There is a fun fair, zip wire, amazing stunt bike riders, car displays, kids activity tent and because it’s half-term, children under 16 go free with adult ticket prices starting from £20.

It runs from 8am to 5.30pm. For more information visit walesrallygb.com.

What do the organisers say?

International Motor Sports Ltd managing director Ben Taylor said: “Chester was always a famous stop in the old RAC Rally and we will look to recreate some of those iconic pictures on Eastgate.

“It’s going to be a great atmosphere, I’m sure.

Ben Taylor, managing director of this year's Dayinsure Wales Rally GB
Ben Taylor, managing director of this year's Dayinsure Wales Rally GB

“It’s been really nostalgic to spend time in and around Cheshire this year, to revisit places I remember well from my youth and to remind myself that everyone knows everyone here!

“I can recall the RAC Rally coming through Tatton Park and drawing huge crowds and I really wanted to see if we could bring the excitement over the border and remind people what a great spectacle it is.”

What do you think of this story? Let us know in the comments below.