The 1986–87 National Hurling League (known as the Ford National Hurling League for sponsorship reasons) was the 56th season of the National Hurling League.
On 3 May 1987, Galway won the title following a 3-12 to 3-10 win over Clare in the final. It was their first league title since 1974-75 and their 3rd National League title overall.[1]
Offaly and Westmeath were relegated from Division 1.
Clare's Cyril Lyons was the Division 1 top scorer with 4-51.
Dublin, Laois, Mayo and Waterford entered Division 2 as the promoted and relegated teams from the previous season.
On 1 March 1987, Tipperary secured the title following a 5-18 to 0-2 win over Mayo in the final round of the group stage. Waterford secured promotion to Division 1 as the second-placed team.
Down, Monaghan and Roscommon entered Division 3 as the promoted and relegated teams from the previous season.
On 1 March 1987, Down secured the title following a 3-18 to 0-6 win over Kildare in the final round of the group stage. Roscommon secured promotion to Division 1 as the second-placed team.