1996 Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship

The 1996 Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship was the 102nd staging of the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship since its establishment by the Kilkenny County Board in 1887. The championship began on 10 August 1996 and ended on 20 October 1996.

Glenmore were the defending champions but were defeated by Young Irelands in the first round.

On 20 October 1996, Young Irelands won the title after a 3–09 to 2–10 defeat of James Stephens in a final replay at Nowlan Park. It was their first ever championship title.

D. J. Carey from the Young Irelands club was the championship's top scorer with 5-35.

To Championship
Promoted from the Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship
 * Dunnamaggin

From Championship
Relegated to the Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship
 * Ballyhale Shamrocks

Scoring

 * Top scorers overall

1st - DJ Carey Young Irelands 5-25 : 5 games

2nd - Richie Minogue James Stephens 1-29 : 5 games

3rd -  PJ Cody  John Lockes 0-25 : 4 games

4th - Niall Moloney St. Martins 3-08 : 2 games

5th - Brian Leahy James Stephens 3-08 : 5 games