Exhibit 23.1


                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

         As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the
incorporation by reference in this registration statement (File No. 333-43573)
and prospectus supplement of our reports included in Hospitality Properties
Trust's Form 10-K and to all references to our Firm included in this
registration statement.

                                      /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP


Washington, D.C.
April 29, 1999