Thank you all for your input. Some really useful things to think about and some other Unis to consider. I hadn't though about years in industry or teaching and assessment styles. Thank you. At the moment he is saying he prefers theoretical physics as opposed to applied. He is particularly interested in Astrophysics.
G55 - he is actually going to look at Cambridge for Natural Sciences ( I didn't mention it in my post as I thought it might complicate what I was asking) with a view to picking physics and maths modules. My instincts say that if he liked the course ( which he seems to) then it is better than physics at Oxford as it offers more flexibility ( particularly as he enjoys Chemistry too). But at the end of the day it is down to him as he will have to do the studying ( assuming he were offered a place).
2childmum - out of interest what did your DS not like about physics at Oxford after his visit? My DS was very excited about the course when he read up on it. Was it the city or the department?
Hmm. Scottish Universities. I thought Durham was a long way away!!

But will tell him to have a look.