First, thanks for following up on the resolution of your problem.

For anyone searching this thread in the future, consistent groaning noises on turns in one direction very frequently point to failing wheel/hub bearings on the side that is on the outside of the turn. This isn't just a rover thing, this has been the same on basically all vehicles for a hundred years.

That being said, a failing wheel bearing is TYPICALLY not an emergency situation, and if it were me, as long as the wheel isn't wobbly enough to move when you tweak it with your hands, I would not question driving home on it, even for several hours. First order of business at home would be ordering parts to fix it.

 

Oh yeah, I still got another 1-2k (km) after the initial post. I suspect it's a little hard on the tires but no noticeable wear. Having the old part and seeing how little movement it has makes me agree with you.
I was expecting something far more dramatic.