Big-spending Toulon have been champions of Europe for the last three years and beat fellow French club Clermont-Auvergne in the final of last season’s competition at Twickenham.

Leinster have also been champions of Europe three times and ended Bath’s interest in the competition at the quarter-final stage last term before succumbing to Toulon in the semi-final.

Two-time European champions Munster are in Pool Four alongside French champions Stade Francais and Leicester, and the trio will seek to take advantage of Benetton Treviso – the only Italian side in the competition – being in their section.

Ulster will face Aviva Premiership champions Saracens in another tough draw for Irish sides, in Pool One four-time European kings Toulouse and French newcomers Oyonnax join them for company.

Clermont’s attempt to go one better next season will be tested at the group stage by Welsh region Ospreys and Exeter Chiefs.

They are joined in Pool Two by French side Bordeaux-Begles, who came through the play-offs to book their Champions Cup place.

Northampton were paired alongside PRO12 champions Glasgow, French side Racing 92 and Welsh outfit Scarlets in Pool Three.

There's one group that seems to be making the eyes water! 2015/16 #ChampionsCup is going to deliver some huge matches pic.twitter.com/IaRPrlnjUQ

— Investec Champions Cup (@ChampionsCup) June 17, 2015

European Professional Club Rugby confirmed at the draw that next season’s Champions Cup final will take place at the Grand Stade de Lyon on May 14, with the Challenge Cup final played at the same venue the previous day.

It was also confirmed that the two competitions’ 2017 finals will be played in Edinburgh.