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 97 - Debunking Disney and Universal myths (Jaws is burning in hell)

Ever wondered where Jaws ended up? How illegal is it to take ashes to Disney World? In this week’s episode we’ll be debunking the biggest Disney World and Universal Studios myths and get to the truth! From to wacky to the out right absurd, it’s time to separate the fact from the fiction.

Feb 11, 202543 minSeason 1Ep. 97

Ep 96 - Ranking every Magic Kingdom attraction from worst to best (good luck with the tooter)

It’s time to separate the walk-ons from the worth the waits! Ever wondered which Magic Kingdom attractions are actually worth spending your precious park time on - look no further. In this week’s episode, we debate and discuss every single ride at Disney World’s most popular park and rank them from worst to best. Who will come out on top? How does your favourite attraction fair? Be prepared for some controversial conversations!

Feb 04, 202545 minSeason 1Ep. 96

Ep 95 - Experiences on Disney Cruise Line with Anni Stores (wear comfortable shoes)

It’s time to set sail for another spectacular episode on Disney Cruise Line! This week, we are joined by the fabulous Anni (@annistores) to discuss all of the exciting updates coming from Disney Cruise Line including the newest additions to the fleet. If you’re a cruise veteran or newbie like Steven, there’s something for everyone as we explore how to get the most out of your next Disney Cruise. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes!

Jan 28, 202559 minSeason 1Ep. 95

Ep 94 - The biggest changes at Disney World and Universal in 2025 (hello John)

Change is good…right? With so many developments happening across Orlando at Disney and Universal, we thought now was a perfect time to discuss all of the updates and changes coming to the parks throughout 2025. From park expansions to ride updates, we’ll cover everything across all four Disney World parks alongside the anticipated arrival of Universal’s Epic Universe. How easy will it be to get reservations at the Pirates of the Caribbean bar? What will be the biggest surprises of the year? But ...

Jan 21, 202551 minSeason 1Ep. 94

Ep 93 - Adventures at Tokyo Disneyland and more with ABritTravels (shows, dark rides and vibes)

Have you ever wanted to travel to Tokyo Disneyland? Wouldn’t know where to start for booking hotels and parks? Then look no further - this week we are joined by Leigh and Becky (@abrittravels) to discuss their extensive experiences at Disney and Universal worldwide and how to get the most out of your trips. In particular we discuss the challenges faced when booking Tokyo Disneyland including early morning wake ups, queuing and endless merchandise!

Jan 14, 20251 hr 10 minSeason 1Ep. 93

Ep 92 - The History of Imagineering part 3 (no more WED)

Continuing our series on the history of Imagineering, this week we explore the events in the Disney timeline from the opening of EPCOT all the way to MGM studios. Expect Imagineer spotlight, audio-animatronics and pure nostalgia.

Jan 07, 202542 minSeason 1Ep. 92

Ep 91 - New Year's Resolutions 2025: Disney World and Universal edition (in one day!)

And so our journey comes to an end (for 2024), we’ve grabbed hold of our dreams and are ready to make 2025 a year of unforgettable memories, mayhem and magic. In this week’s episode, we’ll be discussing our upcoming trips and plans for 2025 alongside our Disney World and Universal New Year’s resolutions - expect challenges, excitement and our goals…in one day!

Dec 31, 202438 minSeason 1Ep. 91

Ep 90 - The Orlando Awards 2024 with Orlando Adventures Podcast

Welcome one and all to the first annual Orlando Awards, hosted by Parks and Pals (@parksandpalsuk) and Orlando Adventures Podcast (@orlando_adventures_podcast). This year, you’ve come together to vote for your Floridian favourites across Disney World and Universal Studios and it’s time to reveal the much anticipated winners. From best attraction to greatest park, we’ve got you covered for all of your fan favourites - who takes home the prize? You have decided!

Dec 23, 202445 minSeason 1Ep. 90

Ep 89 - The History of Imagineering part 2 (sweet little children to dirty old men)

Imagineers have spent decades creating everyday magic throughout the parks and continue to amaze us with incredible inventions and ride systems that take us to new and immersive worlds. In this week's episode, following on from part 1 (episode 57), we explore the history of imagineering from Disneyland California's expansion in the 1970s to the opening of EPCOT.

Dec 17, 202442 minSeason 1Ep. 89

Ep 88 - Christmas Snacks around Walt Disney World with James (ho ho holiday)

During the festive period, Walt Disney World is transformed into a winter wonderland and that includes a Christmas overhaul of the menus! In this weeks episode, we are joined by James (@snacksbeersmickeyears) to discuss our favourite festival holiday snacks and holiday food options across the parks and hotels.

Dec 10, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 88

Ep 87 - Festival of the Holidays (Four parks one dreidel)

At this festive time, where better to head than to EPCOT for the final festival of the year: Festival of the Holidays. In this weeks episode, we’ll discuss the history of the Christmas festival and explore all the Yuletide snacks, activities and entertainment available this time of year. Did someone say gingerbread?

Dec 03, 202429 minSeason 1Ep. 87

Ep 86 - Best Disney World Breakfasts with GBMickeyWaffle (yummy yum yum breakfast)

From sweet treats and delights from quick service to incredible character dining experiences, Disney World has endless options for breakfast - but which ones are worth your time and money? In this week's episode we are joined by Ben and Becca (@gbmickeywaffle) to discuss every breakfast dining option on property. Where shall we head first for the most important meal of the day?

Nov 26, 202457 minSeason 1Ep. 86

Ep 85 - Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts (homely home)

Finishing up our Disney World resorts series, we dive into the finer side of staying on site by exploring every deluxe resort. We'll talk through all facilities, restaurants and pools and discuss our favourite resorts to stay at. Why settle for less?

Nov 19, 202447 minSeason 1Ep. 85

Ep 84 - The Ultimate 7-Day Orlando Trip with The Miskimmins (mission to spaceship mars)

How long is the perfect trip to Orlando? Most would argue around 14 days, however, can you pack all the attractions, entertainment and never-ending food into just 7 days? This week, we are joined by Becky and Ciara (@magicwiththemiskimmins) to create the ultimate 7-day Floridian adventure that includes Universal, Walt Disney World and a whole load of margaritas! Care to join us?

Nov 12, 20241 hr 22 minSeason 1Ep. 84

Ep 83 - The Pixar Universe Theory (who run the world... cars!)

Have you ever noticed striking similarities across Pixar films? Have you spend ages tracking down easter eggs and wondering how everything in Pixar films seems connected? In this week's episode, we explore the Pixar Universe Theory across decades of films and try to figure out what ties them all together. As one door closes, another opens...

Nov 05, 202449 minSeason 1Ep. 83

Ep 82 - Disney parks around the globe with Nicci (some newbies, oldies and goldies)

Disney boasts 12 theme parks around the globe, spanning 3 continents and has an estimated 150 million visitors each year - but how do you navigate every park without prior experience? In this week's episode, we are joined by Nicci (@niccis.family.adventures) who talks through her approaches to all of the Disney parks worldwide. Grab your passport as our next stop could be anywhere!

Oct 29, 202452 minSeason 1Ep. 82

Ep 81 - Walt Disney World Moderate Resorts (romance at banana cabana)

Continuing our series focusing on Walt Disney World resorts, we delve into everything on offer at the moderate hotels on property. Where's the best resort for food and drink? Which hotels offer new experiences? Join us as we explore the best features of the moderate resorts.

Oct 22, 202446 minSeason 1Ep. 81

Ep 80 - Disney musicals on stage with Dayle Hodge (define Disney disaster)

Since the late 90s, Disney has adapted several of its well-known films into unforgettable stage shows. Whether it's immersing us in pride rock in The Lion King or swinging through the rainforest with Tarzan, Disney musicals bring the action, drama and wonder to life! In this week's episode, we are joined by West End star Dayle Hodge as we take a trip through the timeline of Disney musicals on stage.

Oct 15, 20241 hr 15 minSeason 1Ep. 80

Ep 78 - EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival 2024 (Am I a snack credit?)

EPCOT continues to boast some of the best variety of all the Disney World parks, partly down to its ever changing landscape and range of yearly festivals. In this week's episode, we take you for a tour around EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival 2024 to showcase the exciting new booths, superb entertainment and endless food options at the park's best foodie festival.

Oct 01, 202440 minSeason 1Ep. 78

Ep 77 - Walt Disney World Value Resorts (that's one big daddy)

With over 20 resorts to choose from at Walt Disney World, it can seem overwhelming to decide where to stay. Where's best for transport? Which resort has the biggest pool? In this week’s episode, we explore all of the value resorts on offer to decide where you can really get the most for your money!

Sep 24, 202443 minSeason 1Ep. 77

Ep 76 - The Future of Universal Studios with Russ (what the hell is Glen Close doing in a tornado?)

Universal Studios is a household name around the globe, but with the expansion of the Orlando resort with Epic Universe and the heavily speculated UK park on the horizon, where does that leave us? This week, we are joined by Russ (Orlando Adventures Podcast) to explore future predictions in the Universal parks across the US and UK. Expect outrageous predictions, chaotic re-imaginings and lots of family.

Sep 17, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 1Ep. 76

Ep 75 - Getting the most out of Disney's Hollywood Studios (croc 'til you stop)

If you're looking to explore immersive worlds and ride thrilling attractions, then there's no better place than Disney's Hollywood Studios. From the edge of the galaxy in Batuu to wondering what life would be like as a miniature in Toy Story Land, Hollywood Studios is the gateway to glamour and stardom. But how do you squeeze all of this excitement into a day? In our final 'getting the most out of' Disney World edition, we take you through the best tips and tricks for this extraordinary park....

Sep 10, 202448 minSeason 1Ep. 75

Ep 74 - A guide to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party & Oogie Boogie Bash (fill my scoop)

It's that time of year again where Disney World and Disneyland gear up for the spooky season with their nighttime special events of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Oogie Boogie Bash. In this week's episode, we take you through everything you need to know about these scary spectaculars including treat trails, special character meets and costume recommendations.

Sep 03, 202443 minSeason 1Ep. 74

Ep 73 - Family Disney trips with The Hackett Family (is it even a ride?)

Disney holidays can sometimes feel like a minefield - from the planning to dining and not to mention the added challenge of doing it all with children. In this week's episode, we are joined by the wonderful Hackett Family (@the_hackettfamily) to discuss getting the most out of a family Disney World trip. From how to manage temper tantrums to over-rated rides, we'll explore the most magical place on earth as a family of four!

Aug 27, 202458 minSeason 1Ep. 73

Ep 72 - D23 Announcements 2024 (oh boy daddy Josh)

Every year, Disney makes a host of announcements about park developments, upcoming films and so much more. This year was no exception. In what might be Disney World's largest park expansions, this week, we discuss all the company's imminent projects and explore every prediction around the Disney parks worldwide!

Aug 20, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 72

Ep 71 - Getting the most out of Animal Kingdom (brush hard piggy)

Opening in April 1998 to a ‘roaring’ success, Animal Kingdom has become a fan favourite for all wannabe Wilderness Explorers. In this week’s episode, we discuss how to get the most out of the Orlando park that offers so much more than attractions and shows. Jump in everybody as today you’ll be riding on Simba One!

Aug 13, 202442 minSeason 1Ep. 71

Ep 70 - Universal Orlando Hotels (they're like sisters)

Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay have become fan favourites for theme parks and water parks in Orlando. Plus, with the eagerly anticipated opening of Epic Universe, there has never been a better time to visit. This week, we’ll deep dive into all the Universal Orlando Resort hotels to discuss the best options when planning your next vacation.

Aug 06, 202442 minSeason 1Ep. 70

Ep 69 - Walt Disney World Shows with Charlotte (little monkey tumble)

The Disney World parks offer more than just world class attractions; they have incredible shows to truly capture the heart of Disney magic. This week, we are joined by Charlotte Farmer (@circleoflifechar), an ex-Disney World cast member boasting three programs, to discuss the unmissable, and slightly missable, shows offered in the Florida parks.

Jul 30, 20241 hr 24 minSeason 1Ep. 69

Ep 68 - Getting the most out of EPCOT (croissant, you are like my brother)

For years, EPCOT has developed and shifted with new attractions, interactive areas and immersive culture. Firmly cementing itself as a local favourite, and with an ever changing calendar, how do you get the most out of Walt Disney’s experimental park? In this week’s episode, we take you through our top tips to ensure you learn, play and explore all there is to offer at EPCOT.

Jul 23, 202446 minSeason 1Ep. 68
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