By deign of being completely unnecessary as a meal (like brunch), afternoon tea can’t be done on the go or in a rush. Traditional and comforting, there’s little wonder why afternoon tea is so popular now, and with the UK Tea Council already making predictions for afternoon tea in 2010, this slow pastime shows no sign of, well… slowing down.

From Sydney to New York, hotels are the first port of call for many tea goers (I adore the award winning Welsh hotel, The Angel in Abergavenny, a proper yet cosy experience which proudly displays their commitment to local suppliers) but little independent cafes are keeping them on their toes.

Shipp’s tea room, an old fashioned little place that was within teacup throwing distance of London’s Borough Market was one such indie which sadly is now gone. Carrying on the kettle is Bea’s Of Bloomsbury and The Tea Rooms in Stoke Newington, both sweet additions to the London tea scene. Also recommended is The Orangery in Kensington Palace, which shows an impressive commitment to sourcing quality, often local ingredients.

Afternoon teas focusing on seasonal ingredients are set to be the big trend for tea lovers in 2010 according to the UK Tea Council, along with cocktail afternoon teas (there’s already one happening at London’s May Fair Bar).

If you want to go down the homemade afternoon tea route, stock up on supplies now. On a recent baking supplies shopping spree, afternoon tea accoutrements were in scarce supply from the big department stores to the local homeware shop. This might be a slow food ritual, but you still might have to act fast…

Image courtesy of the May Fair Hotel.