The English course in Sandwich in Kent will host the Major competition for the 15th time and for the first time since 2011.

St Andrews Golf Course in Fife, widely considered to be the home of golf, has traditionally hosted The Open in every year ending with a five or zero.

The Scottish course, however, is widely tipped to stage the 2021 tournament, which will be notable as the 150th edition of The Open.

Martin Slumbers, chief executive of tournament organisers the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A), said: "We are very much looking forward to the return of The Open to Royal St George's in 2020. 

"The Open is a true celebration of sport and the global spotlight will fall once again on Sandwich."

Competition at the tournament, also known as the British Open, is due to take place between July 16 and 19 in 2020.

Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke won the tournament when it was last played at Royal St George's six years ago.

James Furber, the captain of Royal St George's, added: "We are delighted and honored to be invited to host The Open in 2020. 

"This is tremendous news for the club and a wonderful commercial opportunity for Sandwich, Thanet and Kent.

"The Club is most grateful to all those in the local authorities and the local MPs who have worked so hard with us over the last few years to bring this about.  

"We look forward to working with The R&A and others over the next three years to deliver one of the world’s most prestigious Championships in 2020."