Parks and Pals - podcast cover

Parks and Pals

Chloe Nixon and Steven Cottonparksandpalsuk.co.uk

Escaping from the mundane everyday can sometimes feel impossible, so why not be transported to distant lands filled with adventure!


Chloe and Steven are self-proclaimed thrill seekers who have spent years trying new things, from theme parks to escape rooms all around the globe.


Tune in every Tuesday for magical moments, exciting escapes, and intrepid incidents. Alongside their friends and guests, they will share their top tips, tricks, and recommendations to allow you to create your own unbelievable experiences to last a lifetime. 


Whether you are a family planning your first trip or a seasoned Disney fanatic, we guarantee to share something new with you. 


Adventure is out there, and we’re going to find it!


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Episodes

Ep 37 - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023 (Is it complimentary though?)

In the words of a famous Christmas advert... holidays are coming! Nowhere does Christmas quite like Disney; from the elaborate decorations, timeless characters in their winter attire, or snow down Main Street USA, Disney knows how to get you into the holiday spirit. This week, we explore the winter wonder of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Expect tasty treats, perfect parades and a long boat ride on the Jingle Cruise!

Dec 12, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 37

Ep 36 - How I Disney with Harriet Brassett (Don't thank the phoenicians)

A love of Disney can take you all around the globe; from Tokyo to California, Hong Kong to Paris, or Orlando and the high seas. For this week’s episode, we are thrilled to be joined by Harriet (@harrietbrasset) for one of the most insightful and enjoyable interviews we’ve ever done. Hear us talk about all things Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruise line with top tips, magical memories and exploration with a new little addition.

Dec 05, 202344 minSeason 1Ep. 36

Ep 35 - Chloe's Birthday around Disney World (Realistic with a VIP tour guide)

Another year has passed, and Chloe is another year older. We've shared several wonderful experiences at Disney World and now it's time for Chloe to create the ultimate day at the parks. There's limitless fun to be had with luxurious accommodation, spectacular dining and entertainment, and of course, bottomless margaritas. Join us for an epic day in Orlando to celebrate Chloe's birthday!

Nov 28, 202346 minSeason 1Ep. 35

Ep 34 - The Hidden Magic of EPCOT (Moonwalk to Mission Space)

In the final episode of our 'hidden magic' series, we venture to the experimental prototype community of tomorrow (EPCOT) to explore the hidden details, designs and secrets of the multicultural park. Pack your passport, as we show the fine details of each perfectly designed pavilion, time travel to the hidden historical accuracies of Spaceship Earth, and share weird and wonderful references throughout World Showcase.

Nov 21, 202357 minSeason 1Ep. 34

Ep 33 - Disney World Tours and Experiences (tequila stand for tequila)

Apart from being the go-to theme park destination on the planet, Disney World is host to an array of additional tours and experiences for guests to indulge in. From animal encounters, world class food and beverage experiences and grand guided tours of the parks and surrounding resorts, there's something for everyone on site. This week we explore everything Disney World has to offer including personal adventures, must-dos, and uncovering the hidden magic - tips and gratuity not included.

Nov 14, 20231 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 33

Ep 32 - Pirates of the Caribbean: The rides, history and films with Shannon Hunter

Dead men tell no tales! However, in this episode, we explore every aspect of the Disney parks classic Pirates of the Caribbean. Joined by the expert knowledge of Shannon Hunter (@magically_melly), we discuss the hidden treasures found throughout the rides, amazing animatronics, and the transition to the silver screen. Set sail for a podcast adventure that even Jack Sparrow would question.

Nov 07, 20231 hr 18 minSeason 1Ep. 32

Ep 31 - Scary Moments in Disney Parks and Films (they are out, and hanging)

Join us for a spine-chilling Halloween experience! On the 31st episode, on the 31st October, we'll explore the eerie and unsettling side of Disney World parks that will send shivers down your spine. Plus, we'll take a nostalgic trip through Disney's timeless films, delving into the creepiest moments in Disney animation history. Get ready for a Halloween special that's sure to give you goosebumps!

Oct 31, 202350 minSeason 1Ep. 31

Ep 30 - Universal's Halloween Horror Nights 2023 with Liam Nixon (bring bracelets, make friends)

Hopping across from Disney World to Universal Studios Orlando, we find ourselves lured into Dr Oddfellow’s Halloween Horror Nights! This week, we are joined by fellow HHN’s fanatic Liam Nixon (@liam_throughalens) as we discuss the highs, lows and all-consuming dread at the events of the 32nd year of frights. Be prepared for eye-opening exorcisms, child’s play with Chucky, and terrifying scare zones, houses and more. Heed our advice: never go alone!

Oct 24, 20231 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 30

Ep 29 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2023 (Are you girl mathing me?)

October can only mean one thing…it’s spooky season! And what better way to explore the frightening festivities than by observing the headless horsemen at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Join us as we enjoy creepy character meets, scary snack selections and lots of free candy at Disney Worlds ‘scariest’ night of them all!

Oct 17, 202347 minSeason 1Ep. 29

Ep 28 - Most interesting queues at Disney World (where does Kylo Ren live?)

Disney World is no stranger to hidden details, immersion and superb storytelling - and we’re not just talking about the rides! In this week's episode, we discuss our favourite queues throughout Disney World; how to pass time with a long wait time? And what makes it worth the wait? Do you know where Kylo Ren lives, because we are still searching…

Oct 10, 202340 minSeason 1Ep. 28

Ep 27 - Future Plans of the Disney Parks (That dragon needs a back massage)

The future’s bright. The future’s Disney! Following Disney's destination D23 announcements, we’ve decided to explore all the upcoming and exciting projects planned. How will Animal Kingdom be transformed by the world of Encanto? What will Epcot look like by summer 2024? And which rides are we all most looking forward to? All will be discussed and more as we prepare for what lies ahead at the Disney parks around the globe.

Oct 03, 202355 minSeason 1Ep. 27

Ep 26 - Hidden magic of Hollywood Studios (No shade for you)

We welcome you to a Hollywood that never was—and always will be. Following on from our ‘hidden magic’ series, this week we’ll explore the countless hidden details of the film fanatic’s fantasy - Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Drop in and uncover the secrets of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, discover the mysteries of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and track the treasure trove of facts surrounding Toy Story Land.

Sep 26, 202358 minSeason 1Ep. 26

Ep 25 - The Big 25th Episode (A Disney World Quiz Special)

To celebrate our 25th anniversary episode we decided to bring back some of our favourite guests for a jammed-packed Disney quiz spectacular! Think you know your Fantasyland from your Frontierland? We encourage you to grab your notepads, pens and pixie dust to play along in what is sure to be an unforgettable Disney World quiz. WARNING - may contain terrible kazoo playing! Featuring: @elana_holmes @liam_throughalens @magicalchlo @stevenjcotton @thefagesisters @parkandpalsuk...

Sep 19, 20231 hr 11 minSeason 1Ep. 25

Ep 24 - Rating Disney Quick Service locations with Em (Who is having cold noodles in a waffle bowl!?)

Around Disney World there are copious amounts of sumptuous delights to sink your teeth into, but navigating through the countless quick services can be a real hassle. This week we are joined by fellow foodie and Disney fanatic Em (@findmeinfantasyland) as we explore the parks and resorts in search of the best quick service locations. As the master chef Remy once put it: “If you are what you eat, then I only wanna eat the good stuff.”

Sep 12, 20231 hr 6 minSeason 1Ep. 24

Ep 23 - Our Orlando Trip Recap (Part 2: Too many toys, not enough mania)

Some say that a trip to Disney World is the trip of a lifetime and our summer trip was truly unforgettable. Come with us as we recall the countless memories made on our summer trip to Orlando. There’ll be sumptuous dining experiences, jaw-dropping thrills, margaritas and more! Oh and of course a little engagement story…

Sep 05, 202354 minSeason 1Ep. 23

Ep 22 - Our Orlando Trip Recap (Part 1: Does anyone know the heimlich?)

It’s not goodbye, it’s see you real soon! The hardest part of creating magical memories in Disney World? Coming home with the biggest post-trip blues (not to mention the insane jet lag). This week on Parks and Pals, we’ll be recapping the highlights from Chloe and Steven’s recent summer trip with a new airline, countless resort refills, and of course, a strategically planned nap.

Aug 29, 20231 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 22

Ep 21 - Disney Chat and Fails with Natalie (What's in your fanny pack?)

No one’s had the perfect Disney trip right? All those months of meticulous planning can collapse in a second with ride breakdowns, sudden showers and temper tantrums (and not just from the kids). Join us this week as we reminisce about our Disney park failures with Natalie and discuss how to avoid common catastrophes!

Aug 22, 20231 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 21

Ep 20 - Behind the magic of Magic Kingdom (It's a very fortunate crack)

Ready to begin? For over 50 years, the Magic Kingdom has brought countless joy to visitors all around the globe, from Peter Pan’s Flights to Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain to Splash, and Haunted Mansion to Happily Ever After. This week, we follow on from our deep-dive into Animal Kingdom from episode 5, to discover the truly astonishing secrets of the most magical place on earth!

Aug 15, 202356 minSeason 1Ep. 20

Ep 19 - Plans for our upcoming trip (Plane do many things)

It’s finally here! The countdown timer has hit zero and we are jetting off to the sunshine state for some much needed theme park thrills. Join us for this week's episode of Parks and Pals where we run through our plans for our upcoming trip to Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando - you may need a checklist, as there’s a lot to get through!

Aug 08, 202353 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Ep 18 - Working onboard the Disney Wish with Belle Fage (SHOW SOME RESPECT)

Time to set sail on the most magical voyage available. Join us as we speak to Disney Wish cast member Belle Fage to uncover how this ship evokes wonder through Disney, Pixar, Marvel and more. If you’re planning a Disney cruise, this is one episode you will knot want to miss!

Aug 01, 20231 hr 9 min

Ep 17 - Behind the Scenes of Universal Studios (We will take your child - Reinventing child swap)

Lights, camera, action! In this week's episode, you get to be the extras, recruits and muggles. Like most of the Orlando theme parks, there are countless hidden details that pass us by when rushing from Islands of Adventure to Universal Studios, so let us be your guide to all the hidden easter eggs and movie magic surrounding these iconic parks!

Jul 25, 20231 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Ep 16 - Nighttime Spectaculars (Part 2: Sorcerer Mickey on Steriods)

Let the journey continue as we pick up where we left off from episode 14 of Disney’s Nighttime Spectaculars. With such a splendid array of projections, lasers, and pyrotechnics, this week we uncover the history of Epcot and Hollywood Studios when the lights go down around the parks. Expect never-ending iterations of Illuminations, boundless barges and a giant inflatable Sorcerer Mickey!

Jul 18, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 16

Ep 15 - UK's Biggest Disney Fan Contestant (An interview with James Shaw)

In February 2023, Disney Parks launched a countrywide search for the UKs Biggest Disney Fan. After thousands of entries, they announced their final 10 and the competition began. In this week's episode, we speak to James Shaw as he shares the thrills, challenges, and behind the scenes action of the UKs Biggest Disney Fan. We’ll talk all things Disneyland Paris, Disney World Orlando, and the Disney Wish - ready to see the parks like never before?

Jul 11, 202352 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Ep 14 - Nighttime Spectaculars (Part 1: A bright man)

Disney have long been known for their night-time spectaculars. For decades we have been dazzled by picturesque projections, fantastic fireworks, and melodic masterpieces that stay with us through the years. This week, we delve into the history of these nighttime wonders within Magic Kingdom, as we reach out and find our Happily Ever After!

Jul 04, 202356 minSeason 1Ep. 14

Ep 13 - The Haunted Mansion (Pesky Ghosts)

Welcome foolish mortals to this episode of Parks and Pals. We will be your hosts, your ghost hosts! For years The Haunted Mansion has been an iconic attraction at the Magic Kingdom and this week we dive into what makes this hallowed house tick, creep and crawl. Hitchhike a ride through the history of Constance’s abode and join the 999 happy haunts…but there’s room for a thousand, any volunteers?

Jun 27, 202348 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Ep 12 - Taking a stroll down Sunset Boulevard (A Mickey take down)

Warning: Contains loud noises!!! Ready for a little bit of Californian glamour in the heart of the sunshine state? In this week's episode, we are joined by ex-cast member Elana Holmes to explore the heart of Hollywood Studios and Sunset Boulevard. Expect non-stop laughter, heartfelt memories, impressions and, of course, some imagination huh?

Jun 19, 202352 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Ep 11 - Snacking around Walt Disney World (I'm not a hard cookie gal)

Did somebody say just eat? In this week's exploration of Disney World, we take a culinary circuit around the four parks in search of the greatest snacks. Get ready for discussion and debates from cookies to churros, bread pudding to beignet, and of course, margaritas to Mickey premium bars.

Jun 12, 202353 minSeason 1Ep. 11

Ep 10 - The Challenge Episode (...because it's so calm)

So you think you know Chloe and Steven, well how well do they know each other? In this weeks episode we dive into who's most likely to, a couples quiz, and planning one another the perfect date. Who's the first to cry? Who would win on Toy Story Mania? And, most importantly, who's going to pay for all this?

Jun 05, 202335 minSeason 1Ep. 10

Ep 9 - Childless Millennials in Epcot with Liam Nixon ( A piece of meat, a tart drink and a good pickle)

Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Booze! Being a childless millennial can be difficult. Saving all year after spending too much on avocados and lattes leaves us feeling unfulfilled by our existence, which is why so many flock to Disney’s Epcot to get our culture on and experience the wonderful drinks the world (showcase) has to offer. Join us this week as we discuss the endless possibilities of enjoying Epcot as an adult with the fabulous Liam (@disney_throughalens). We ensure you’ll have a Sip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah day!...

May 30, 20231 hr 15 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Ep 8 - Must dos at Universal Orlando Resort (Grow up poncho wearers)

Welcome back extras, wizards, and recruits! This week, we take you around one of our favourite Orlando hotspots: Universal Resort. If you’ve ever wanted to explore the secrets of diagon alley, venture into lost continents, or come face to face with prehistoric beasts then you’ve come to the right place.

May 23, 202352 minSeason 1Ep. 8
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