I've not cycled it, but it's a very hilly part of the country, so 'total mountain' is more likely than 'incline'.
Another point to consider is the condition of the path.
A mate of mine did the C2C - which I believe goes this way - he told me parts of the path near the Cumbria/ County Durham border were very poorly maintained.
More suited to a mountain bike than a hybrid, and certainly not suitable for a road bike.