EXHIBIT 23.1


                          CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP

     We consent to the incorporation by reference of our report dated April 14,
1997 accompanying the financial statement and schedules of:

     (a)  Santa Anita Companies

     (b)  Santa Anita Realty Enterprises, Inc., and

     (c)  Santa Anita Operating Company and Subsidiaries

appearing in the above-listed entities' Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended
by amendments on Form 10-K/A, for the year ended December 31, 1996 in the joint
Registration Statement on Form S-8 and related Prospectus for the Meditrust
Corporation 1995 Share Award Plan (formerly known as the Santa Anita Realty
Enterprises, Inc. 1995 Share Award Plan), as amended, and the Meditrust
Operating Company 1995 Share Award Plan (formerly known as the Santa Anita
Operating Company 1995 Share Award Plan), as amended, filed by Meditrust
Corporation (formerly known as "Santa Anita Realty Enterprises, Inc.") and
Meditrust Operating Company (formerly known as "Santa Anita Operating Company").


                                   Ernst & Young LLP


Los Angeles, California
November 6, 1997