Last year’s final saw Ronnie O’Sullivan beat Shaun Murphy to equal Steve Davis’ record of six UK titles and take home £170,000.
The Rocket will be looking to defend his title when the event gets underway tomorrow (Tuesday) with all 128 players entering the first round.
The 42-year-old has been drawn against former world amateur champion Luke Simmonds, while world number one Mark Selby takes on James Cahill and world champion Mark Williams faces Adam Duffy.
The York Barbican will host the tournament, which comes to a conclusion on December 9.